Madmacs Offshore High Speed Trolling Minnow - Sinking Lure

In this review the Nomad Design Madmacs is evaluated as a purpose-built high speed trolling minnow for offshore anglers who need a tough, straight-running lure that works across a wide speed range. The single biggest reason to consider the Madmacs is its Autotune system combined with a rugged foam-core body and stamped stainless plate, which together deliver reliable vibrating action and straight tracking from slow 5kn drifts up to fast trolling speeds. It is a practical choice for anglers who switch speeds and want one lure to cover several depths and tactics.

Key Features

• High speed trolling: The sinking design keeps the lure running with strong vibration at both slow and fast trolling speeds for consistent attraction.
• Autotune system: Ensures the lure trolls straight and performs across a huge range of speeds from about 5kn up to 15kn for larger sizes and higher for smaller models.
• Depth range: Runs roughly 6-8ft when trolled slowly and about 3-4ft at higher speeds, letting anglers target different layers without changing gear.
• Durable construction: Machine stamped stainless steel plate and full body foam core make the Madmacs one of the tougher plugs available for offshore work.
• Strong terminal tackle: Supplied with super strong BKK hooks and heavy duty split rings ready for larger pelagic strikes.
• Casting versatility: Can be cast as a bait with an internal rattle to attract predators in addition to its trolling role.

Who It's For

The Madmacs suits offshore anglers who run mixed spreads and need a single lure that handles a wide speed range and holds up to heavy use. It is a good pick for anglers targeting tunas, mackerel and other fast pelagic predators who value durability and predictable action.

Less suitable are anglers who fish exclusively at very shallow depths or rely only on slow, subtle casting lures for inshore species; dedicated shallow-running or soft-plastic specialists may prefer purpose-built alternatives.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Runs straight and vibrates well at both low and high trolling speeds thanks to the Autotune system.
• Very durable foam-core body with stamped stainless plate stands up to rough offshore use.
• Equipped with strong BKK hooks and heavy duty split rings for serious hookups.
• Versatile enough to be used for casting with an internal rattle when conditions call for it.

Cons

• Catchability reports are mixed from customers, so results can vary by location and presentation.
• As a sinking minnow, it is not designed for very shallow or ultra-slow finesse applications.

Specifications

Product type	High speed sinking trolling minnow
Sizes	160 / 200 / 240 (sinking models)
Trolling speed range	Runs from about 5kn up to 15kn (higher for smaller sizes)
Running depth	Approximately 6-8ft at slow speeds, 3-4ft at fast speeds
Construction	Full body foam core with machine stamped stainless steel plate
Hooks and rings	Super strong BKK hooks and heavy duty split rings

Our Verdict

The Nomad Design Madmacs is a solid choice for offshore anglers who need a durable, reliable sinking minnow that trolls straight and vibrates across a wide range of speeds. It offers good value for those who run mixed-speed spreads and want one resilient lure to cover multiple depths, though anglers chasing only shallow or ultra-finesse targets should look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What speeds can the Madmacs handle?
The Madmacs trolls well from about 5kn up to around 15kn for larger models, with smaller sizes capable of even higher speeds.

How deep does it run?
Expect roughly 6-8ft at slow trolling speeds and about 3-4ft when trolled fast, allowing coverage of midwater zones.

Is it durable enough for big fish?
Yes, the foam-core body with stamped stainless plate plus BKK hooks and heavy split rings make it suitable for heavy offshore use.