IMA iBorn 118F Shallow | The Ultimate Shallow-Water Specialist

At Gerry’s Fishing, we know that some of the best bass marks are also the most treacherous—shallow, rock-strewn gullies where a standard diving lure would be lost on the first cast. The IMA iBorn 118F was “born” specifically to solve this problem. It is a high-performance shallow runner that refuses to dive deeper than 30cm, allowing you to hunt in the “danger zone” with total confidence.

The iBorn 118 is a masterclass in stability. Between its aerodynamic profile for long-distance casting and its unique side “keel” for water stability, this lure stays composed and fishable when the wind is up and the surf is pushing hard over the rocks.

Why the iBorn 118F Dominates the Shallows

1. The 30cm Ceiling

The specialized “vane” (lip) design is the secret to the iBorn’s success. It provides enough resistance to create a tight, aggressive wobbling action but is physically incapable of driving the lure deep. This “shallow ceiling” means you can work the lure over submerged weed beds and jagged reef tops that other anglers simply have to avoid.

2. “Long-Cast” Aerodynamics

Despite its relatively stubby, baitfish-mimicking profile, the iBorn 118 is built for distance. The internal weight distribution and exterior design minimize air resistance, ensuring the lure flies straight and true even in a crosswind. This is crucial for reaching those distant “boiling” fish without spooking them with your presence.

3. Stability Keel Technology

One of the most innovative features is the side “keel.” This acts like a stabilizer on a boat, helping the lure grip the water the moment it lands. Even in choppy, turbulent conditions or fast-moving tide races, the iBorn maintains its aggressive swim rhythm rather than tumbling or washing out.

Technical Specifications

Examples of Where to Use

• Flooded Mudflats: Perfect for working over the top of estuaries as the tide floods in, where bass move into inches of water to find crabs and baitfish.

• Shallow Rock Plateaus: If you are fishing over “knuckle” rocks or kelp forests that sit just below the surface, the iBorn 118 is your safest bet.

• Surf Beaches: The aggressive wobble and side keel make it a standout in the “whitewater” of the first breaker, where it can stay stable in the froth.

• Shoreline Feeding Frenzies: When bass are driving baitfish right onto the shingle, a deeper lure would dig into the sand. The iBorn stays just below the surface in the “kill zone.”

Gerry’s Pro Tip:

Use the “Slow-Roll” technique. Because the iBorn has such an aggressive action, you don’t need to burn it back. A slow, steady retrieve will create a massive amount of vibration and a subtle surface wake. If the water is very still, try a “dead drift” approach in a current—let the tide work the lure’s vane while you simply keep the line taut.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this lure only for Bass?

While it’s a legendary bass catcher, its profile and action make it equally effective for Pike in shallow weedy bays or even large Perch. Any predator looking for a stubby baitfish profile like a sprat or small mullet will find this hard to resist.

Does it cast as well as a Patchinko?

For a bibbed minnow, it is an exceptional caster. While a tail-weighted surface lure like a Patchinko might win in a pure distance competition, the iBorn is one of the furthest-casting shallow minnows on the market due to its stable flight path.

Will it float if I stop reeling?

Yes, it is a true floating (F) lure. If you see a particularly shallow rock ahead, just stop reeling and the iBorn will pop back to the surface, allowing you to float it over the obstruction before continuing your retrieve.