This looks like a cross between a blade bait and a spoon. Some of the YouTube vids online make this look like something I might want to try for early spring smallies and lake trout. Has anyone tried these?

Just picked some up about a month ago for ice fishing and like them quite a bit.  Attach a little cross snap on and tie directly to that. If you tie directly to the lure the line will get weak from the pulsing vibrations.  Sometimes the hooks tangle, but if you drop it on a tight line or attach a swivel up above the line then you should be fine.  Definitely has some awesome vibrations that will bring in the fish.

Looks like an ice fishing bait.

I cast and retrieve them the same way I would a silver buddy - amazing vibration - a bit pricey

Pricey yes. Especially where I fish - a flooded impoundment with many stump fields. However, I've had success staying snag-less, by using a single Siwash hook on normal blade baits. Thinking that if I switch out the trebles on the Vibrato with single weedless style hooks, that might mitigate losses(?). I don't think using the Siwash hooks on each end would reduce snags. But then again, I am amazed at how snag-less they make regular blade baits, so who knows.