The Rapala Shadow Rap Shad is a highly versatile crankbait designed for both shallow and deep water applications. This improved model boasts a larger profile than its predecessors, measuring an additional 20mm for increased presence in the water. Its realistic baitfish design, mimicking juvenile herring and whiting, effectively attracts a wide range of predatory fish species, from Australian bass to barramundi. The unique internal ball system, while not a true weight transfer system, contributes to the lure's signature 180° rotation, enhanced by a high-ridge back for controlled pauses and suspensions.Featuring a lifelike lateral line, reflective foil, and a UV-reactive layer, the Shadow Rap Shad is visually appealing in all light conditions. Its action varies depending on retrieve speed, ranging from a lazy roll at slower speeds to a more aggressive, erratic movement at faster speeds, mimicking an injured baitfish. While casting distance is adequate, performance in the water is exceptional, making it a worthwhile addition to any angler's tackle box. This review delves into the specifics of its performance, durability, and effectiveness across various species and fishing scenarios.
Pros And Cons
- Comes in deep and shallow running versions.
- Longer length (20mm extra) compared to the first release.
- Resembles different baitfish (gar/mullet, juvenile Whiting/herring).
- Good action for attracting fish.
- Slow rising, can be made to suspend with heavier treble hook.
- Well-balanced design.
- High-quality reflective foil and UV glow.
- Attractive visual appeal.
- Can be used at high speeds.
- Good for clear water fishing.
- Original larger sizes may be weak under pressure.
- Light hooks may need upgrading for larger fish (Jacks, Trevally, Barracuda).
- Casting ability isn't great in the wind due to the ball system.
- Shifts slightly at high speeds.
Read more: 5 Killer Spinnerbait Fishing Lures You Need
Design and Features
The Rapala Shadow Rap Shad is a versatile lure available in both deep and shallow running versions. It's an improvement on previous Shadow Rap models, boasting an extra 20mm in length for a more substantial profile. The design mimics juvenile baitfish like herring and whiting, making it highly effective in attracting various predatory fish species.
These lures are equipped with a unique internal ball system, though not a true weight transfer system. This system contributes to the characteristic Shadow Rap action – a pronounced 180° rotation with the right twitching technique. The high ridge on the back aids in balance, allowing for enticing pauses and suspensions.
The lure's external design includes a realistic lateral line and reflective foil under the scale pattern, enhancing its visual appeal, particularly in natural light. Further adding to its allure is the inclusion of a UV-reactive layer beneath the surface, which is attractive to fish in low-light conditions.
Performance and Action
The shallow running Shadow Rap Shad dives to approximately 3-4 feet and features a lazy roll action at slower retrieves, which can be intensified for a quicker action. The deep-running version provides a more traditional jerk bait wiggle with a higher cadence and side-to-side movement.
While the lures perform well at various retrieve speeds, higher speeds result in a noticeable sideways shift, mimicking the erratic movements of an injured baitfish. This can be used to your advantage to trigger strikes. The consistent straight retrieve allows for a steady tracking motion, although the reviewer often employs a twitchy action with pauses to elicit bites.
The casting distance is satisfactory but may be impacted by wind conditions due to the ball system and bib shape. Though sufficient for many scenarios, dedicated long-casting lures might be preferable for extreme conditions.
Target Species and Hook Upgrade
The Rapala Shadow Rap Shad effectively targets a variety of species, including Australian bass, jacks, trevally, and barramundi. Its baitfish profile makes it particularly appealing to these predatory fish.
While the lure comes equipped with trebles, the reviewer recommends upgrading to heavier hooks, especially when targeting larger species like jacks and barramundi. The stock hooks are adequately sized for smaller fish like flathead and bass.
The lure’s design incorporates strong durable materials, effectively resisting cracking and compression under pressure from larger fish, even though some reports in reviews of the larger version have noted some issues under extreme pressure.
Overall Impression and Conclusion
The Rapala Shadow Rap Shad offers a significant upgrade over previous Rapala hardbaits with its improved finish, realistic detailing, and versatile action. The lure's visual appeal and lifelike movement make it highly effective in clear water conditions, attracting a wide range of predatory fish.
While the casting distance isn't exceptional, its performance in the water is outstanding. The ability to suspend and create varied actions with simple adjustments makes it a highly versatile tool. The small size reduces issues with compression and cracking reported in larger models.
Overall, the Rapala Shadow Rap Shad is a high-quality lure that's worth the price, providing excellent value and performance. The various color options allow anglers to match their preferred baitfish and target conditions, making it a valuable asset in any angler's tackle box.
