IMA Rattling Salt Skimmer | 110mm 14g – The Surface “Boil” Specialist

At Gerry’s Fishing, we’ve long considered the IMA Salt Skimmer a “hall of fame” surface lure. This Rattling version takes that legendary, slim-profile action and adds an acoustic edge. While the original silent version is a clear-water killer, the Rattling Salt Skimmer is the one you reach for when the water has a bit of “fizz” or color and you need the fish to find your lure through the noise.

It is one of the most slender topwater plugs on the market, designed to mimic the aerodynamic shape of a fleeing sandeel. Because it is tail-weighted, it sits vertically at rest and performs a unique, high-energy dance that drives UK bass wild.

Why the Rattling Salt Skimmer is a Shore Essential

1. The “Tail-Digging” Action

The magic of the Skimmer is in its weighting. When you work it in a zig-zag “walk the dog” fashion, the tail doesn’t just slide—it digs into the water. This creates a distinct surface “boil” and splash at every turn, mimicking the exact commotion of a predator attacking a baitfish. It doesn’t just look like prey; it looks like a feeding opportunity.

2. Built-In Acoustic Attraction

The added internal rattle system is a game-changer for choppy or slightly colored water. The clicking sound helps fish home in on the lure’s position from a distance or through surface clutter. It provides that extra sensory trigger that often turns a “follow” into a full-blooded surface strike.

3. “Long-Dart” Casting

For a relatively light 14g lure, the Salt Skimmer is a surprisingly long caster. Its ultra-slim, “pencil” profile and tail-heavy balance mean it flies straight as an arrow, cutting through the wind with minimal resistance. If you need to hit a distant gully with precision, this lure will get you there.

Technical Specifications

Examples of Where to Use

• Choppy Surf: The rattle and the digging tail action ensure the lure stays visible and audible even when there is a significant surface “chop.”

• Sandeel Marks: The slim, 110mm profile is a perfect imitation for a medium-sized sandeel, making it deadly over sandy bays and estuary mouths.

• Low-Light / Colored Water: On overcast days or when the tide has stirred up some sediment, the internal rattle provides the vibration needed for bass to track the lure.

• Shallow Reefs: Since it stays strictly on the surface, you can confidently work it over the “nastiest” ground without fear of snagging your hardware.

Gerry’s Pro Tip:

The Skimmer rewards a “fast and frantic” retrieve. Don’t be too gentle with it—use sharp, rapid twitches of the rod tip to make that tail really splash and “boil” the water. If you see a fish miss the lure, don’t stop! Keep the action going fast; the bass will often think the bait is panicked and come back for a second, more aggressive hit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this better than the silent version?

“Better” depends on the day. On dead-calm, “gin-clear” days, the silent version can be superior. However, for 80% of UK coastal conditions where there is wind, tide, or chop, the Rattling version is usually the more consistent producer.

Do I need to change the hooks?

Absolutely not. IMA fits these with Owner hooks as standard. These are widely regarded as some of the best in the business—sticky sharp and strong enough to handle a trophy UK bass straight out of the box.

What rod works best for the Skimmer?

Because it weighs 14g, a Medium-Light (ML) rod rated roughly 7-28g is the perfect match. You want a rod with a “crisp” tip that can snap the lure into its zig-zag motion without being so stiff that it pulls the lure out of the water.

Classic IMA precision with an added acoustic punch. The Rattling Salt Skimmer is the surface specialist your kit is missing.