What is it?
Rapala Shadow Rap
What does it do?
Suspending jerkbait that imitates injured or dying baitfish.
What sets it apart?
Suspending jerkbaits have been around for years, but the internal weighting system is slightly heavier on average and causes the bait to sink very slowly, rather than rise very slowly. The unique Rapala lip design combined with body shape and the weighting system creates a very erratic and unpredictable swimming action, which opportunistic bass fins very hard to resist. The lure can actually turn 180 degrees between rod twitches that becomes a triggering factor by itself.
How do I use it?
The internal weighting system serves a dual purpose, not only does it contribute to the swimming action, but it also improves casting distances. Once the bait hits the water, give it a couple quick snaps of the rod tip to attain the desired running depth, and begin implementing a jerk-jerk-pause retrieve. If the bass are in a negative mood, longer pauses can be too much to ignore and a strike will often follow. Short, sharp snaps that encourage the bait to react naturally on a slack line; conversely, a taut line reduces attention-grapping action.
How much?
$9.99
More Information:
Editor insight:
Not all jerkbaits are created equal, but when used under the right conditions with the most appealing retrieve, they will all get eaten. But, the unique action of Rapala’s Shadow Rap is tough to beat. In my experience, when fishing against a strong cold front, the bass like to hold tight to cover and it either takes hitting them between the eyes to garner a bite, or a very erratic action from a jerkbait can pull them from their fishy lairs. I prefer the jerk-hard snap-long pause routine. The bait will literally turn around and look at a trailing bass straight in the eyes. At that point, blood it’s in the water—hang on!
