Well I finally bit the bullet after reading all about the Mystery Tackle Boxes and watching the unboxings and the #MTBSlam contests on YouTube. My first box shipped out 2 days ago so staring at the mailbox waiting for it! Will post what I got and maybe do an attempt at the #MTBSlam contest.
Any predictions on what this month's stuff might be?
Hopefully not another Strike Pro swimbait...
Dahlberg Frog on its way!
Just got my box! Getting a Go-Pro in the next few months so will be doing unboxing vidos and the #mtbSLAM contest then! Until then here is what I got! Some great looking baits though! The Sashimi Pencil looks like it will be great for walking the dog in the early morning over points. The Shovelhead jig looks great, usually I fish jigs in thick brush so not sure how well it will do there, but around rocks it should be a decent crawdad immitation and the black/emarld color should be great in stained to muddy water. The Z-Man Sawtail Worm and the Gambler Flappy Daddy will be great on a T-rig and the green pumpkin color is one of my staples. Not sure how much use I will have for the InvisaSwivel, I currently use Carolina Keepers for my carolina rigging and dont really like the extra knots swivels require, but I will give it a shot! Great work Mystery Tackle Box! About $24 worth a baits for my $5 box!
Glad I didn't join for June... If I join next month I hope its better than that.
On 6/16/2014 at 1:41 AM, Kevin22 said:Glad I didn't join for June... If I join next month I hope its better than that.
I thought they did pretty good this month. That walk the dog Yo-Zuri bait is $13 alone. The worm and craws are fish catchers and a good color. $24 worth of baits for a $15 price (my first month so only $5) is a pretty good deal imo!
If you can use that one bait. If you don't have a use for the $13 bait you just got a box of $11 worth of samples for $15. I hate it when they send one high priced lure then samples to get it to around $20. That's why I cancelled last time.
Not trying to be a jerk, just stating my honest opinion.
I was in the same situation as Kevin but i've been considering joining again. I got tired of all the samples and one overpriced bait i won't use.
That Yo Zuri lure is on sale at my Walmart for $8 right now.
What a horrible box. MTB looks to have gotten worse since I canceled. And that's saying a lot. Smh...
Is every box different? I think I got mine MTB (I samples the $5 deal for each right now) and I got completely different lures. I will have to look at my cards that come with the boxes to verify I already got mine.
Here we go with the monthly tackle subscription bashing. Man it never ends. One person likes it then you get 5 others that bash the months box, and are glad they cancelled. Good for you, that's your choice. It's all about trying baits that you would usually not buy, so your obviously gonna get boxes with stuff you won't use. So you try them out, and if one works well you will probably go to a retailer and buy it again. This is how this program works.
I just received MTb and lucky tackle box and this month lucky tackle box wins hands down. I got a total of 6 plastics, a crankbait, and vibrating jig. Oh and 2 swivels. Bad value this month.
Last month I felt they were both pretty even.
I keep stopping myself from signing up after seeing people get sample bags of plastics and stuff like swivels... If it was whole bags of plastics or more lures it seems like it would be better. But I've never signed up so I'm not bashing it
On 6/17/2014 at 1:27 AM, Catch and Grease said:I keep stopping myself from signing up after seeing people get sample bags of plastics and stuff like swivels... If it was whole bags of plastics or more lures it seems like it would be better. But I've never signed up so I'm not bashing it
I have not tried them yet, but lucky tackle box's motto is that they will never send samples.
I think the biggest issue with MTB that people have is that you used to get full packs of baits and a lure. Now it's a lure and a bunch of samples. Bait and switch. A lot have canceled over this.
I see we have the monthly censor who sees it as his right to censor those who don't feel they got their money worth. hey it is a free country and people can say what they want. You can even type like a 4th grader about farts.
On 6/17/2014 at 2:11 AM, TNBassin said:I think the biggest issue with MTB that people have is that you used to get full packs of baits and a lure. Now it's a lure and a bunch of samples. Bait and switch. A lot have canceled over this.
It used to be about new lures. Now they have stuff that are discounted by the major warehouses trying to dump the stuff. Very seldom is there any new lures anymore.
On 6/17/2014 at 2:34 AM, collards said:I see we have the monthly censor who sees it as his right to censor those who don't feel they got their money worth. hey it is a free country and people can say what they want. You can even type like a 4th grader about farts.
I enjoy typing about farts.
So far my monthly box of farts have been pretty good. I have used some of the farts, and had luck with them.
Maybe "bashing" is to harsh of a word, switch it out with opinionateding.
Hopefully your box of farts came with some dude wipes
Hey that reminds me, MTB where are my dude wipes samples? Haven't gotten one dems yet ... says he with his monthly censorshiping.
On 6/17/2014 at 2:47 AM, boostr said:I enjoy typing about farts.
I am sure you do.
On 6/17/2014 at 2:11 AM, TNBassin said:I think the biggest issue with MTB that people have is that you used to get full packs of baits and a lure. Now it's a lure and a bunch of samples. Bait and switch. A lot have canceled over this.
Thank you for your feedback. We have been sending samples packs of plastics since October of 2012 when we surveyed our subscribers (and non-subscribers) and asked if they would rather receive 1 full pack or 2-3 sample packs and 90% responded they would rather get sample packs. Using sample packs allows us to get a greater variety of plastics in a box, which helps our subscribers try out as many new baits as possible. If we really saw a large % of our subscribers canceling and email us complaining about samples we would consider switching back, but we only get a handful of complaints each month compared to many many dozens of positive emails and our subscriber base still continues to grow every month substantially. We can't please everyone with every box, but for the most part our subscribers are very happy.
Right but the fact doesn't change that you up and changed what was offered when your subscriber base grew. I know MTB is in the business of making money, but did you guys ever alert subscribers this change was being made? I don't think so. Also, I didn't take that survey and neither did the 3 other subscribers in my family. And now reports are that MTB is putting in discontinued baits lol. I'll keep taking my $15 to BPS and buy full packs of baits and lures. Keep using that "survey" line. I've heard it from u guys a bunch.
On 6/17/2014 at 2:38 AM, collards said:It used to be about new lures. Now they have stuff that are discounted by the major warehouses trying to dump the stuff. Very seldom is there any new lures anymore.
Last month we had a few new products including BioSpawn ExoStick, Missile Baits Shockwave, the silent XB1 by xcite baits. This month we have a new product from Kanan lures. We specifically look to make sure that we are not getting things that manufacturers are discontinuing. Obviously we can't control what a local bait shop puts on sale or clearance, but that is not something the manufacturer has much control over and it does not mean a product is discontinued.
We already have another brand-new product lined up for next month as well as products from a brand-new partner. As we grow we are working with more new partners and looking to secure more new products and I think that over the next few months you will begin to see some very exciting new products.
On 6/17/2014 at 7:53 AM, TNBassin said:Right but the fact doesn't change that you up and changed what was offered when your subscriber base grew. I know MTB is in the business of making money, but did you guys ever alert subscribers this change was being made? I don't think so. Also, I didn't take that survey and neither did the 3 other subscribers in my family. And now reports are that MTB is putting in discontinued baits lol. I'll keep taking my $15 to BPS and buy full packs of baits and lures. Keep using that "survey" line. I've heard it from u guys a bunch.
Just to clarify, our first box was in August of 2012 and our first box with samples was in October of 2012 (Bruiser baits). That was our 3rd month. We have sent over 60 boxes since them. We apologize if you feel that it was a bait and switch, but we made that change right after we started and have continue to grow substantially every since and continue to get amazing feedback. If for some reason you feel cheated, lied to, or harmed by us in some way we apologize. We simply try and please as many people as we can and obviously we can't please everyone. Thanks again for your feedback.
Received the same box pictured earlier. Can't wait to see what that pencil can do.
I got a completely different box. Mine had a frenzy chatterbait, a stikepro hunchback wake bait, a sample of soft jerkbait, a sample of finesse type worms and the floro swivels. Never used a chatterbait or the wake bait so it was some new lures for me.
I received a good box, got a Kanan sexy shad diamond lip crank bait, the Z saw tail worms, KVD Game Hawg, those Invisi swivels, and a pack of those jig heads which you can attach different hooks to. I'm gonna use the crank bait, and the Game Hawgs plastics I was on the fence about buying so now I get to try them out and see what the fuss is all about. I've used those jig heads before when I received a couple from TG, and they work.
Could you do a survey again? Could only be good for your company. With all the forums talking about it now, and facebook going crazy, I'm sure you will get more participants in the survey than before. You know how I'd vote, but I'd like to hear the results and how others are thinking as well.
I think that everyone looks at MTB, LTB, etc differently. It seems like some people want to get a box full of high quality stuff that they will or already use, for less than retail. I understand everyone wants a deal, but that's not how I see it.
I personally love the service. I'm newish to the fresh, and I like getting samples of baits that I haven't seen or used before. That's how I try out new things and fishing styles before dumping money at the shop.
If you feel like your $15 a month would be better spent at BPS on products you regularly use and have confidence in, then maybe the service just isn't for you anyway? Different strokes....
On 6/18/2014 at 12:15 AM, Kevin22 said:Could you do a survey again? Could only be good for your company. With all the forums talking about it now, and facebook going crazy, I'm sure you will get more participants in the survey than before. You know how I'd vote, but I'd like to hear the results and how others are thinking as well.
Here is one of the surveys we posted to Facebook way back in the day: https://www.facebook.com/questions/507745129239872/?qa_ref=qd
We sent another one via email and posted one on another Facebook page that we have a relationship and got similar responses with over 1,000 people who responded. One thing to keep in mind is that if there are 10-15 people who post on a forum that they did not like samples that is only a very very tiny fraction of the many thousands of subscribers we have. Even 100 people saying they don't want samples would represent far less than 1% of our subscriber base, especially if you factor in everyone who has ever received a box. We know that some people would rather get one full pack (and hope it's one they like) then 2-3 sample packs of different product, but we also know that it's a very small % of people. Most people use a service like our to try out new baits every month and the more new baits we can get them, the better.
All of that being said, we are always looking to improve and we are working on something that we think will provide a good option for everyone.
On 6/18/2014 at 12:56 AM, MysteryTackleBox said:Here is one of the surveys we posted to Facebook way back in the day: https://www.facebook.com/questions/507745129239872/?qa_ref=qd
We sent another one via email and posted one on another Facebook page that we have a relationship and got similar responses with over 1,000 people who responded. One thing to keep in mind is that if there are 10-15 people who post on a forum that they did not like samples that is only a very very tiny fraction of the many thousands of subscribers we have. Even 100 people saying they don't want samples would represent far less than 1% of our subscriber base, especially if you factor in everyone who has ever received a box. We know that some people would rather get one full pack (and hope it's one they like) then 2-3 sample packs of different product, but we also know that it's a very small % of people. Most people use a service like our to try out new baits every month and the more new baits we can get them, the better.
All of that being said, we are always looking to improve and we are working on something that we think will provide a good option for everyone.
This is my second box I received. I personally prefer sample packs but 6 total plastics for 2 baits a bit light. If it were 3 separate sample packs consistently every month It would drive home the message of variety. Just my two cents from a new customer.
On 6/17/2014 at 7:56 AM, MysteryTackleBox said:Last month we had a few new products including BioSpawn ExoStick, Missile Baits Shockwave, the silent XB1 by xcite baits. This month we have a new product from Kanan lures. We specifically look to make sure that we are not getting things that manufacturers are discontinuing. Obviously we can't control what a local bait shop puts on sale or clearance, but that is not something the manufacturer has much control over and it does not mean a product is discontinued.
We already have another brand-new product lined up for next month as well as products from a brand-new partner. As we grow we are working with more new partners and looking to secure more new products and I think that over the next few months you will begin to see some very exciting new products.
This month I got a total of 9 plastics, 2 swivels which I won't use, a hybird jig very much like the others you sent out and a cheap crankbait. I doubt if there is ten dollars worth in this and not your inflated prices. I canceled.
You have also sent out strike king small spinners and culprit spinners in the past. They are not new only they are cheap.
I will watch unboxings for a few months before I believe your promises of better and new lures.
I cancelled my MTB as well...the baits it came with were mediocre at best, but what really bugged me was the claimed value. They would say "GY Senko's, $7.49 value" when in reality a true 12 pack may be that price, but 3 of them are definitely not worth the same amount!!
That being said, I tried Lucky for the first time this month, and was much happier with the results.
the whole tackle box monthly fad will die soon.
On 6/18/2014 at 4:59 AM, zachvu said:I cancelled my MTB as well...the baits it came with were mediocre at best, but what really bugged me was the claimed value. They would say "GY Senko's, $7.49 value" when in reality a true 12 pack may be that price, but 3 of them are definitely not worth the same amount!!
Thank you for the feedback. We intentionally show you the price for a full retail bag along with how many come in that so you know how much it costs to buy a pack. We also specifically list how many we sent in the box to make it very clear that it's a sample pack. If we just showed the retail price and not the full-pack quantity, that would be VERY misleading. If we just showed the price of the sample pack, subscribers would not know how many came in a full pack and what it would cost them to buy more at retail. Therefore we show the full retail price and pack amount together and then show how many we sent in the sample pack. We are sorry for the confusion.
On 6/18/2014 at 5:21 AM, MysteryTackleBox said:If we just showed the price of the sample pack, subscribers would not know how many came in a full pack and what it would cost them to buy more at retail.
If subscribers liked the bait, it would be easy enough for them to see the quantity and price when looking at purchasing them. I really wanted to like the MTB, loved the "other" KVD commercials, but all in all just wasn't very happy with what was delivered. All in, you're getting $20 worth of baits for $15 that you may like the results of.
On 6/18/2014 at 5:31 AM, zachvu said:If subscribers liked the bait, it would be easy enough for them to see the quantity and price when looking at purchasing them. I really wanted to like the MTB, loved the "other" KVD commercials, but all in all just wasn't very happy with what was delivered. All in, you're getting $20 worth of baits for $15 that you may like the results of.
Thank you for the feedback and we hope you'll continue to watch our videos Also, please keep an eye on future boxes and perhaps you will give us a shot again in the future. Just curious, was this month your first box? Have you seen other boxes of ours in the past and liked what you saw?
On 6/18/2014 at 5:34 AM, MysteryTackleBox said:Thank you for the feedback and we hope you'll continue to watch our videos Also, please keep an eye on future boxes and perhaps you will give us a shot again in the future. Just curious, was this month your first box? Have you seen other boxes of ours in the past and liked what you saw?
I appreciate the replies, and respect the fact that you as a company are on the forums and watching for feedback on your products. I will definitely continue to watch the videos, they are awesome! I cancelled mine a couple months ago. I had been watching the boxes, and liked what I saw, and really liked the idea of forcing myself to try new baits. That's what was most appealing to me about the whole subscription idea. When I received my box, I LOVED one of the baits, and will definitely buy it again. I would not likely have ever discovered that bait without MTB, so from that aspect you have succeeded. However, most of what I received that month I didn't care for. I have continued to fish the products when the bite is good, and still haven't had much of anything for results.
I think the best thing MTB could do for both the company and the customer is cut one of the hard baits/spinners, (maybe even both?) and provide a few more samples. In my opinion, people buy the cranks/spinners/jigs they like, but are more willing to explore with soft plastics and hooks. By including more of these, the chances of getting a bait that really clicks with someone would increase, and being that they are soft plastics, they won't last long and the consumer will end up purchasing them if successful.
I love MTB. I have really liked it because it has me using plastics I had never used before. I never used a wacky rig before I got my first MTB box a few months ago. Now its my go to technique when its tough to catch fish. I caught so many fish with the Backwater Tackle T Floater worms that came in my April box, that I ordered 40 dollars worth of them from Backwater Tackle. I also started fishing a jig thanks to MTB putting a Hack Attack Jig, also in my April box.
On 6/18/2014 at 5:46 AM, zachvu said:I think the best thing MTB could do for both the company and the customer is cut one of the hard baits/spinners, (maybe even both?) and provide a few more samples. In my opinion, people buy the cranks/spinners/jigs they like, but are more willing to explore with soft plastics and hooks. By including more of these, the chances of getting a bait that really clicks with someone would increase, and being that they are soft plastics, they won't last long and the consumer will end up purchasing them if successful.
I agree totally with this. I think if you guys put more terminal tackle(worm hooks that aren't mustad, wacky hooks, shaky head jigs, twist lock hooks, etc) and more samples of plastics(different colors of the same baits and/or different sizes) I would like the box much much more. I have a ton of crankbaits and spinnerbaits in specific colors that I like to fish with. I don't like getting a crankbait in a color that does me no good at all. This didn't happen with my box from this month and to be honest I was relieved it wasn't a Strike Pro swimbait because I'll never use them where I currently reside. If I still lived in California I would have probably been super stoked to get them. So I guess another suggestion would be to take location of the subscriber into account when putting boxes together. BTW, the Freedom Jigheads are awesome! More terminal tackle please!
There is one thing about new baits though. Most of us take collecting lures (and using them) as a hobby. We know the lures. We keep up to date with Ikast and other lists of new baits on the net. I go into Tackle warehouse, cabelas, bps , overstock, another site etc. daily on-line and dick's etc. in store frequently. We know the prices and look at the reviews. many of the reviews for what I got are horrible. It does seem like you are buying many lures that are being discounted. We also read about new lures in this forum and other forums.
I cancelled all 3 services after more than a year at 2 of them. It just got worse about the quality and the laughable over valued prices (no matter how they try to spin it).
If it makes us feel any better, my daughter is on cosmetic monthly boxes too. She says that they have really gotten cheap too. She also has started to cancel.
I'd gladly pay $20 a month for a tackle subscription that gives full packs. Why doesn't MTB tier their service? $15 a month for a sample box and $20 for those that want the full products?
Because lucky tackle box already gives full packs for $15/mo.
Which is why I subbed with them, but a company could still charge more if the value was there every month.
On 6/17/2014 at 2:11 AM, TNBassin said:I think the biggest issue with MTB that people have is that you used to get full packs of baits and a lure. Now it's a lure and a bunch of samples. Bait and switch. A lot have canceled over this.
Constantly bashing MTB and resurfacing on the forum to brag about your arguments with Skeet Reese on Facebook?
Forgive me if I don't value your opinion.
MTB is not for everyone and they let you try practically risk free for $5. If you don't like it, it can be easily canceled.