First is the 07 Scatter Rap Shad in the “Demon” color scheme. This rap is one of my go to baits for bass in the mid summer. The reason for this is by now most of them have seen all the plastic worm presentations and spinner baits. Alot of anglers have moved into using frogs and craws and we all know bass love craws. The “Demon” color pattern is a bright red craw. Mix it with the zig zag movement of the scatter rap lip and fish it quick. Burn a few feet of line then give it a couple quick twitches and burn it again. 90% of your strikes will come on the pause between twitches. You will encounter a lot of northern pike with this bait as well so a heavier fluorocarbon leader is not always a bad idea.
Second is the 07 Tail Dancer in “Perch” colors. I use this when I am trolling rock piles or sharp drop offs looking for walleyes. The over active tail of the TD series is more than any walleye can resist. I will typically let out around 40′ or so of line and troll between 1 and 2 mph. When you feel the tap tap let your arm slide back so they can fully eat the bait then set the hook. This technique will put more fish in the boat.
Third is the Original Floater Rap. This is the most basic Rapala on the market and can be used for just about anything. Because this rap only runs a couple feet deep and naturally floats I run mine on a debuke rig. 10lb braid to a 3-way swivel. From the bottom swivel I run a 2 foot long 10lb mono leader to a 3/8 oz to a 3/4 oz weight depending on current, depth and trolling speed. From the 3rd swivel I run 2 to 4 feet of 6lb to 10lb fluorocarbon and tie it to the rap. This allows me to get the rap to dance about 2 or 3 feet off the bottom. This is a very effective way to bring some of these larger lethargic walleyes top side.
Rapalas come in a variety of sizes and colors to meet just about any angler need. They hold the record for most world record fish caught on any brand lure and have been proven time and time again to get big fish in the boat. I hope this helps you to do the same.
Good luck this weekend and be safe. We want you to return home safe and sound. Remember to check for new rules on the body of water you will be on as they change year to year. And don’t forget the drain plug! Remember, Clean, Drain, Dry! Tight lines!