Keitech Custom Leech 3

Description

The Keitech Custom Leech 3 is a specialized finesse lure designed in Japan to replicate the undulating, serpentine movement of leeches and large insect larvae. Written by Gerrys Fishing, this description highlights how the Custom Leechs unique segmented design and high-buoyancy material make it a lethal tool for targeting perch, zander, and other bottom-dwelling predators that are feeding on soft-bodied organisms.

Detailed Specifications

• Model: Keitech Custom Leech 3

• Length: 3.0 inches (Approx. 7.6 cm)

• Lure Type: Finesse leech/creature bait

• Material: High-buoyancy, dual-density PVC matrix

• Scent Infusion: Heavily loaded with Keitechs legendary, potent Natural Squid Scent

• Packaging: Secure, rigid plastic blister tray packs (maintains the straight, segmented profile)

• Quantity: 10 baits per pack

• Rigging Options: Drop-shot, Neko-rig, Wacky-rig, or on a micro-jig head

Key Features & Design Performance

• Segmented Serpentine Action: The Custom Leech features a multi-segmented body that acts like a hinge. This design allows the lure to mimic the natural, flowing movement of a swimming leech or lamprey. Even with the slightest current or subtle rod twitch, the body ripples continuously, creating a hypnotic action that triggers predatory strikes from fish that are otherwise hesitant.

• High-Buoyancy Material: Unlike standard creature baits, the Custom Leech is constructed from a highly buoyant material. This allows the tail to stand up and flicker aggressively when fished on a drop-shot or Neko-rig, effectively keeping the bait in the strike zone longer.

• Integrated Hook-Slot Ribbing: The body is deeply ringed, which accomplishes three things: it creates an incredibly soft, realistic texture that predators are less likely to spit out, it maximizes the dispersion of the squid scent, and it provides a secure channel for weedless-style hook rigging.

• Dual-Tone Coloration: Keitechs custom coloring process ensures that the transition between the segments and the overall finish is remarkably realistic, helping the lure blend into its environment while still being visible enough for predators to track.

Examples of Where to Use It

• Drop-Shotting for Lethargic Perch: When perch are holding tight to the bottom and refusing to chase moving lures, the Custom Leech is the ultimate finesse solution. A light shake on a drop-shot rig makes the lure pulsate vertically, mimicking a vulnerable bottom-feeder.

• Neko-Rigging for Zander: By inserting a small nail weight into the head of the bait and using an offset hook, you can create a stand-up presentation that is deadly for zander holding on gravel banks or sandy riverbeds.

• Vertical Jigging in Canals: Perfect for vertical fishing along marina walls or bridge pilings. The Custom Leechs segmented body responds perfectly to short, rhythmic rod taps, creating a fluttering motion that attracts fish from the surrounding structure.

Pro Tip

The Breathe-and-Pause Cadence: The Custom Leech shines during the pause. When fishing a drop-shot or Neko-rig, work the bait for three or four seconds, then stop all movement. The buoyant segments will naturally drift and breathe with the current, while the tail sections will hover in a defensive posture. This slight, autonomous movement is often the X-factor that convinces a wary specimen to finally commit to the strike.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Custom Leech differ from the Easy Shiner?

The Easy Shiner is a swimbait designed for a steady retrieve, characterized by a kicking tail. The Custom Leech is a finesse bait designed for subtle, vertical, and shaking retrieves. If you are retrieving the lure back, use an Easy Shiner; if you are working an area intensely or vertical jigging, the Custom Leech is far more effective.

What is the best hook size to use with the 3 Custom Leech?

For most finesse applications (drop-shot/Neko-rig), we recommend a #6 or #4 finesse hook. If you are rigging it weedless on a micro-jig head, a #4 fine-wire offset hook is ideal to keep the lures action uninhibited.

Does the squid scent help with this specific lure?

Absolutely. Because the Custom Leech is a finesse bait often fished at a slow pace, the scent becomes the primary attractant once a predator is in the immediate vicinity. The concentrated squid scent gives the fish the confidence to inhale the lure fully, which is why we find this bait to have an exceptionally high hook-up ratio even when the fish are plucking at the bait.