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In and outs of bait for '08

Last update: May 2, 2008 - 3:23 PM

ORIGINAL FLOATER

Action: Runs shallow, 1-10 feet down. This is Lauri Rapala's first lure, a wounded-minnow imitation.

How to use it: A go-to lure that is best fished slowly, especially on the opener. Long-lining in evening, at night and at dawn can be a great technique. Troll near vegetation, even if it's dead; warmer water will be found there. Bleeding colors are must-haves; try also "purpledescent.''

X-RAP SHAD

Action: Similar to the Shad Rap, the X-Rap Shad can be retrieved or trolled at medium speeds. Runs 6-11 feet down.

How to use it: A dressed-up Shad Rap, with a similar shape, this version can be cast long distances, even with baitcasting reels. It rattles and also suspends when the retrieve is stopped. Work around timber and other cover. Try twitching or slashing to trigger strikes by stubborn fish.

SHAD RAP

Action: Moves like a wounded bait fish, at depths of 4-15 feet. Available in four body lengths, 2 to 3 1/2 inches.

How to use it: With plenty of weight for casting, the Shad Rap also can be trolled fast or slow without losing its wiggle. Steady retrieves work, and also sweeps and slashes. Crawdad, shad and perch are standby colors. Lime green is favored by many anglers. Walleyes, northerns, bass like it.

DEEP TAIL DANCER

Action: A hard wobbler that runs deep. Large sizes target fish 30 feet down, smaller ones about 15.

How to use it: Generally not an opening day bait, this baby is designed for deep-holding fish in summer's warming waters. It comes in three sizes, Nos. 7, 9 and 11; each is a trolling bait that can be trailed fast or slow. It rattles with a wide tail action. Use for walleyes and northerns; lakers, too.

MINNOW RAP

Action: Think Shad Rap with a minnow body, running 5-11 feet. Good for multiple species.

How to use it: A big hit since its 2007 debut, the Minnow Rap marries the Original Floater with the Shad Rap. On the opener, work this bait along transition lines where cold water and less-cold water (it will be that kind of opener) meet, say at the mouths of feeder creeks.

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