SAF PLASTI-X BRAVO 15 cm - Beetle Blue

Product detailed description

SAF PLASTI-X BRAVO 15 cm – Beetle Blue is a hand-poured, laminated soft plastic shad for presenting predators with a distinct baitfish profile in a natural colour. Light passes through the transparent body, while the pearlescent back reveals green, golden and subtle blue reflections as the viewing angle changes. This creates a gentle contrast between the back and translucent flanks, which becomes visible as the lure changes position.

The colour takes its name from the Beetle Blue pigment from Eye Candy Pigments that we use to accentuate the back. We have chosen the dosage to keep the lure translucent without allowing the pearlescent effect to cover the whole body. This combination is worth trying in clearer water, particularly when predators are feeding on baitfish. If the water becomes coloured or fish respond better to a more conspicuous colour accent, try one of the higher-contrast options in the BRAVO 15 cm range.

BRAVO combines a slim profile with a pronounced paddle tail. Water flow drives the paddle, transmitting its action into the soft body and combining a baitfish silhouette with a regular swimming rhythm. At 15 cm, it offers a larger mouthful without excessive bulk. This profile is also worth trying on a slower retrieve with a lighter jig head, provided you can still maintain contact with the lure. Adjust the retrieve speed and weight to the current and depth; a correctly rigged BRAVO should track straight, with enough freedom for the tail to work.

In freshwater, BRAVO 15 cm Beetle Blue is an option for targeting zander and pike. For zander, work it along drop-offs, across submerged shelves and just above the bottom, especially when fish are feeding on larger prey. Start with short lifts followed by a controlled fall while keeping in touch with the lure, then try a steady retrieve close to the bottom as the fish dictate. For pike, retrieve it steadily along weed beds, around structure or through the water column, occasionally varying the pace. Use a bite-resistant trace. The size may also appeal to large perch; if deliberately targeting catfish, match the hook, trace and the rest of the tackle to their strength.

Saltwater lure fishing is just as relevant to this 15 cm shad as freshwater fishing. BRAVO offers the silhouette of a small prey fish, enhanced by the shifting pearlescent reflections of Beetle Blue. In Norway, try it for cod, coalfish and pollack: cast from a boat or the shore where conditions allow, retrieve above uneven ground or search the water column. For pollack, try a steady retrieve over rocky drop-offs; for coalfish, also explore higher in the water column. When targeting cod, control the fall and keep track of the lure's position above the bottom. Match the jig-head weight to the depth, current and drift speed: the same lure may need very different weights in a sheltered bay and a fast-flowing channel.

Our rigging recommendations follow the jig heads already used with other BRAVO 15 cm models: SAF Crocodile 10/0, SAF Capybara 8/0 and SAF Harpia 2X 6/0. The stronger Harpia is also an option for saltwater use. Thread the lure straight onto the hook without bending or bunching the body, and leave the hook point sufficiently exposed. An alternative is the SAF Anaconda screw-in head, which leaves the body free of a long, fixed hook. Anaconda requires a separate stinger rig with one or more hooks. Position the stinger so that it does not restrict the tail's movement.

We make every lure by hand in the Czech Republic. The laminated finish adds gloss and brings out the depth of the transparent colour. Large 3D eyes complete the baitfish appearance; the BRAVO 15 cm model is designed for eyes with a 10 mm diameter. The intensity of the pearlescent effect may vary slightly between individual lures. These subtle differences are a natural part of mixing the colour by hand and pouring and finishing each lure individually.

Repair torn soft plastic with SABOFLEX Quick Fix. To fine-tune the presentation, explore our SABOFLEX Quick Scent attractants, such as Roach for freshwater or Mackerel and Squid for saltwater. Use SABOFLEX Quick Dip to add a small colour accent to a finished lure. Beetle Blue powder pigment, by contrast, is mixed into the material when making the lure. If you would like to make your own, find the equipment in our soft plastic lure-making range.

Frequently asked questions – BRAVO 15 cm Beetle Blue

When should I choose the natural Beetle Blue colour?

Start with it in clearer water, or when predators are feeding on baitfish and you want to make use of the translucent body and subtle reflections. In coloured water, compare it with a brighter version of the same model. Let the fish's response in the conditions guide your choice.

Is a 15 cm lure too large for zander?

It is a suitable size to try when targeting larger zander, particularly when they are feeding on larger prey. If they are taking small baitfish or only making short strikes, try a smaller profile. Lure length alone does not determine the size of the fish you catch.

Which jig heads should I choose for BRAVO 15 cm?

The related products include jig heads used with the BRAVO range: Crocodile 10/0, Capybara 8/0 and Harpia 2X 6/0. Choose the weight to suit the depth, current and desired fall. Add a separate stinger when using the screw-in Anaconda head; the head itself has no fixed hook.

Can I fish BRAVO vertically from a boat?

Yes. Work it beneath the boat with short lifts and controlled drops. The tail needs water flow, created by movement of the lure or the current. Choose enough weight to keep the rig under control as the boat drifts.

Which saltwater species is the 15 cm version suitable for?

In Norway, primarily cod, coalfish and pollack. Work the lure above the bottom or through the water column; the depth, current and position of the fish determine the presentation and weight. For a stronger setup, consider the reinforced Harpia 2X.

Does the lure come with a jig head?

No. The pack contains one finished soft plastic lure. Choose a jig head or a screw-in head with a stinger separately to suit your fishing.

→ For all detailed technical information, see the Product parameters table below.

↓ Below the product description, you will also find related and similar products to help you choose and put together a complete fishing setup.