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Fisherman Corp. says that its mission has always been simple: to deliver Japan’s finest, highest-quality fishing tackle to anglers around the world. And it feels it did exactly that at EFTTEX in June.
The company’s Rie Takeuchi told Angling International: “In 2026, we are proud to introduce one of the most significant lure innovations in recent years, the YG Labo Dorvus 180 HAKU, which is the world’s first hybrid swimbait to successfully combine genuine foil stamping with high-definition printing on a soft PVC body.
“This technological breakthrough, once considered impossible, sets a new benchmark for lure design and manufacturing. Creating metallic foil finishes on soft PVC has long been a challenge for lure manufacturers. Conventional methods could not permanently bond foil to a flexible body without sacrificing durability or affecting the lure’s natural swimming action.”
YG Labo has overcome this obstacle with its proprietary manufacturing technology, allowing both genuine metallic foil and high-definition graphics to be permanently bonded to a soft PVC body while preserving the supple action that makes soft swimbaits so effective.
“The result is a lure that delivers the authentic flash of a real baitfish together with lifelike printed details, creating an exceptionally realistic three-dimensional appearance underwater. More importantly, this breakthrough is not exclusive to the Dorvus 180 HAKU. YG Labo plans to expand this foil technology across future products, opening a new chapter in premium soft lure development.”
The Dorvus 180 HAKU combines advanced engineering with practical functionality. A moulded M4 pipe nut positioned in front of the pectoral fin enables anglers to fine-tune the lure’s weight by attaching the optional YG Labo sinker or any commercially available M4 bolt. This allows fast and precise adjustments to match changing fishing conditions without complicated modifications.
Dedicated hook mounting holes on both the back and belly simplify hook installation. These pre-designed attachment points ensure perfect positioning every time while preventing unnecessary damage to the lure body.
The lure also features an integrated stabilising fin that eliminates the delicate tuning often required with traditional big baits. Unlike many large swimbaits that demand wire adjustments before fishing, the Dorvus 180 is ready to perform straight from the package and comes fitted with treble hooks as standard.
“One of the Dorvus 180 HAKU’s greatest strengths is its durability,” said Takeuchi. “Even after repeated use, the soft body maintains its shape and condition remarkably well, providing exceptional long-term value. Anglers can fish confidently knowing the lure is designed to withstand extended use without compromising performance.”
The Dorvus 180 HAKU’s defining feature is its ability to replicate the natural flash of live baitfish. By combining genuine foil technology with high-definition printing, the lure produces an authentic metallic reflection together with realistic scale patterns and colour transitions. Underwater, these elements interact to create a dynamic three-dimensional flashing effect that closely mimics natural prey and powerfully stimulates the predatory instincts of game fish.
It represents a new generation of swimbaits that blends visual realism, cutting-edge technology and proven fish-catching performance.
Prior to launch, YG Labo introduced the Dorvus 180 to Japanese anglers through social media. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Takeuchi. “Experienced anglers praised its tuning potential and versatility, while newcomers frequently commented that despite its size, the lure looked surprisingly easy to use. That accessibility is intentional.”
The Dorvus 180 was developed to remove many of the complexities traditionally associated with big baits. Rather than requiring advanced tuning or specialist knowledge, it offers consistent performance straight out of the box while still providing experienced anglers with opportunities for customisation.
In Japan, large swimbaits are often associated with targeting trophy bass during the spring pre-spawn period. Consequently, many anglers initially assumed the Dorvus 180 was designed exclusively for seasonal fishing.
“YG Labo challenges that perception,” explained Takeuchi. “The Dorvus 180 is not intended for one specific season or technique. Instead, it is engineered as a highly versatile swimbait that excels whenever predatory fish are actively feeding on baitfish, making it effective across a wide variety of seasons, fisheries, and conditions.”
The Dorvus 180 HAKU received international recognition by earning a runner-up prize in the EFTTEX Best New Product Awards, attracting considerable attention throughout the exhibition. “Visitors were particularly impressed by its distinctive appearance, advanced manufacturing technology and the craftsmanship visible in every detail, “ said Takeuchi.
At the Fisherman Corp. booth, anglers had the opportunity to watch underwater action videos and explore the development philosophy behind the lure. While the visual presentation generated strong interest, the consensus among the team was clear: the Dorvus 180’s true potential can only be fully appreciated on the water.
The foil-finished Dorvus 180 HAKU is scheduled for release later this year, while the standard colour versions of the Dorvus 180 are already available for order. Customers wishing to secure units from the first production run are encouraged to place their orders early.
YG Labo has earned a loyal following in Japan through its commitment to practical innovation. Among long-time anglers, the Mushiba remains one of the brand’s signature lures, while newer anglers often recognise the Rizu as one of its stand-out products. Within the company itself, every designer has a personal favourite – from the Witch Whip 5-inch to the Witch Shad 3.5-inch – reflecting the belief that every angler develops a unique connection with different lures.
This philosophy defines YG Labo.
“Rather than prescribing a single ‘correct’ way to fish, the company designs lures that encourage experimentation and creativity. Every product is intended to be approachable enough for beginners while offering the versatility that experienced anglers appreciate. As anglers gain experience, YG Labo believes the same lure should continue to reveal new possibilities.
“Whether it’s a full day on the water, a quick session after work, or an hour at dawn, the goal is simple: to give anglers the confidence that carrying a YG Labo lure means they always have a genuine opportunity to connect with fish.”
The company also believes that the fishing experience begins long before the first cast. Selecting a lure in a tackle shop should be exciting in itself. From carefully developed colour patterns and realistic finishes to the anticipation of holding the lure for the first time, every detail is designed to inspire confidence and enjoyment.
“With the introduction of the Dorvus 180 HAKU, YG Labo has once again demonstrated that innovation is not simply about creating something different – it is about creating something that helps anglers fish more effectively while making the experience itself even more rewarding.”
