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Terminator T2 Series


Data for Review

Date – August, 2004
Manufacturer – Terminator
Reviewed by – Andrew Ragas


Reviewed Baits



 

About Terminator Titanium Spinnerbaits

Terminator began in 1997 when they unleashed the original T-1 Series Titanium Spinnerbait. Since then, they have introduced patented titanium
innovations for in-line spinners, jigs and leaders. The adventure continued once again in 2003. Terminator created what is likely the most impactful and creative fishing innovation since the introduction of the first Terminator spinnerbait.

The difference between T-1 Series and T-2 Series Spinnerbaits

The T-1 Series is the original Terminator titanium spinnerbait that changed fishing and the design of spinnerbaits. The T-2 Series is a created value series of Terminators that puts Terminator within range of every angler's budget. While both models use the same exact Nickel Titanium (NiTiNOL) frame, the differences are as follows:


T-1 Series
24 Karat Gold plated blades
Unique beveled-edges on blades
Mustad© Needle Point Hook
Extra QuickSkirt in every T-1 Series package
Extremely naturalistic metalized minnow head
About $7

T-2 Series
Polished brass blades
Short shank hook
No extra QuickSkirt in T-2 Series package
Painted, rounder head
Limited color selection
About $5



Complete Set-up for Review during the 2004 Season



Rod – Daiwa Procaster S-B (PR-S661MRB-B)
Reel – Quantum Accurist ACS 500PT
Line – 12lb P-Line Fluoroclear



Out on the Water (Casting, Durability & Presentation)

Casting & Durability

I first started using spinnerbaits almost exclusively during the summer of 2004. Before, I used to “think” that spinnerbaits were just an overrated piece of metal with two rotating blades that would just spook the fish. As of today, I don’t think so! With all baits and lures, you just need to know how to use them properly.

Casting the T2 series was easy and a pleasure to do. Spinnerbaits tend to be well weighted baits, and the Terminator is no exception. The T2 sails through the air with ease when rigged with 10 or 12lb line. (I prefer 12) The best way to fish spinnerbaits is with a nice baitcasting rig, as you will have more control over placement. Because the T2 is a medium sized spinner with a flexible titanium wire, it is an excellent choice for fishing in and around structure. Placing the spinnerbait into open pockets of water is key when initiating retrieves over and around heavy vegetation and submerged trees

The soft Titanium wire on the Terminator serves many purposes and it’s a workhorse! First of all, the bait is a lot more durable and will always remain in perfect shape after hanging on structure or landing a big fish. Secondly, the titanium frame is adjusted so that the hook is positioned closer to the blades; this allows for any fish that attacks the blade portion of the spinnerbait will still have a good chance of hooking up.

Presentation

During its review period, in August, of 2004, I found this bait to be most effective in the windiest of all weather conditions. The areas I worked this bait were near the most wind-blown shoreline areas I was able to find. Sunny, or cloudy, it didn’t make any difference.

Retrieving the T2 is easy. I like to use a steady retrieving rate, and if I see any type of underwater structure (drop-offs, weed pockets, submerged brush) I will let the lure sink and flutter down, then I will retrieve it slowly back up to the surface. It’s all about working structure and making sure you cover ground.

When working spinnerbaits, make sure you know that these are lures that work best for covering water and when searching for aggressive feeders.



The author, with a pair of decent Bass caught on the reviewed Terminator spinnerbaits.


Special Features

No longer can price be used as an excuse to not fish a Terminator! The T-2 Series features a titanium snapback frame that Terminator claims to have “forever changed fishing.” Terminator scaled down the components of the original T1 series to make the T2 more affordable. What they didn't scale down is its fish-catching ability. The T-2 Series comes dressed for success with the exclusive easy-change quickskirt and blades that produce all the necessary flash and vibrations. The durable, high-quality paint is made to last.


The titanium is nearly 100% flexible on all Terminator spinnerbaits.


Reviewed Terminator Spinnerbait Ratings (0/5)

Construction & Quality – An A+ grade! The titanium frame gives the T2 series a longer life period compared to regular wire spinnerbaits. - 5

On The Water Uses – Very many hookups, a very nice sharp hook is very good at riving the hook during sets. Great bait to use when covering water in search for aggressive fish - 5

Design (ergonomics) – Easy to use system, and the titanium wire makes this a problem free lure to fish every time - 5

Presentation – Good for covering water. Best when used during windy conditions, either on sunny or cloudy day. - 4.5

Price – Compared with its competitors who only make regular wire-frame spinnerbaits, no one should ever complain about the price. $4 for a regular spinnerbait, or $5 for a titanium? Which would you pick? - 5




Positive and Negative Thoughts


Positive
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Titanium frame
Strong and flexible
Good colors
High-quality components
Easy and interchangeable quick-skirt system
Affordable price compared to original T1 series


Negative
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Not enough colors & patterns to satisfy the angler