There is no denying the versatility and effectiveness of the Rapala X-Rap jerkbait for smallmouth bass fishing. The X-Rap has been an incredible bait for me, especially during this time of the year. Whether you’re targeting smallmouth bass, trout, walleye, or even saltwater fish, the X-Rap is a bait that can produce results.
The X-Rap comes in various sizes, from small ones that can be used to catch crappies and trout, to larger ones that can attract muskies and northern pike. It’s a bait that has proven to be effective in a wide range of fishing conditions. In fact, it’s one of my all-time favorite baits for freshwater fishing, especially in cool water.
When it comes to choosing my go-to baits, the X-Rap is always at the top of my list. If I had to pick just two baits to fish anywhere for anything, it would be a small swimbait and an X-Rap jerkbait. These two baits have consistently produced results for me in various fishing conditions. 
One of the reasons why I love the X-Rap is its versatility. It can be used in both freshwater and saltwater environments, making it a great choice for anglers who enjoy fishing in different locations. Whether you’re targeting crappies, trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, muskies, or northern pike, the X Rap can attract bites from a wide range of fish species.
I have personally had great success with the X-Rap when fishing for smallmouth bass. In fact, I have won tournaments using primarily the X-Rap as my bait of choice. Its realistic swimming action and lifelike appearance make it irresistible to bass, especially in clear water lakes and pressured fishing conditions.
One of the key factors to consider when using the X-Rap is the size of the bait. It comes in various sizes, ranging from smaller ones to larger ones. Depending on the fishing conditions and the target species, downsizing or upsizing the bait can make a significant difference in your success. For example, in colder water conditions, downsizing to a smaller X Rap can often yield better results.
X-Rap Cadence
The cadence of your retrieve is also crucial when using the X-Rap. In colder water, a slower retrieve with pauses can be more effective, as fish tend to be less active and less willing to chase down fast-moving baits. On the other hand, in warmer water conditions, a faster retrieve with occasional pauses can trigger aggressive strikes from fish.
When it comes to gear, I highly recommend using a quality rod and reel setup that is suitable for jerk bait fishing. One rod that I have found to be exceptional for jerk bait fishing is the St Croix Victory Series rod. It offers a wide range of rod actions specifically designed for bass fishing, including jerk baiting. Paired with a Daiwa Kage LT 2500 XH spinning reel, you’ll have a powerful and reliable setup for fishing with the X-Rap.
Spot-Locking is another technique that can greatly enhance your success with the X-Rap. By using a trolling motor with spot lock capabilities, you can anchor yourself in high percentage spots and make precise casts to target specific areas, such as rock ridges or boulder structures. This technique allows you to thoroughly cover an area and increase your chances of hooking into fish.
Adjusting your cadence based on the water temperature and time of year. In colder water, a pause after a pull or snap can entice fish to strike, while in warmer water, a faster retrieve can trigger aggressive reactions. It’s essential to experiment with different cadences to find what works best for the current fishing conditions. The smaller size X Rap proves to be effective, especially in colder water conditions. The angler emphasizes the confidence he has in this bait, as it has produced great results for him in the past, even leading to tournament wins.
The X-Rap jerk bait is a must-have in any angler’s tackle box, especially when targeting smallmouth bass. Its versatility, lifelike appearance, and realistic swimming action make it a highly effective bait in a wide range of fishing conditions. By adjusting your cadence, downsizing or upsizing the bait, and utilizing Spot-Locking techniques, you can maximize your success with the X-Rap.
The Rapala X-Rap has proven to be one of the top bait options for catching bass during the cold-water period. Watch Al and Troy Lindner reveal all the nuances of using this fantastic fish producing lure.
The X-Rap is “all about the action.” The versatility of the X-Rap allows an angler to impart a number of fish-catching actions in a single retrieve. Casts like a bullet for long accurate casts. Prominent scales and lateral line on the fuselage capture and flash light like a beacon. It can be fished both in an aggressive “Slashbait” technique or with a classic Rapala wobble. The angler defines the cadence for maximum effectiveness. Loaded with features from tip to tail, textured translucent body, internal holographic foil, internal long cast system (XR04 excluded), 3D holographic eyes, flash foil teaser tails, Slashbait® action, Rapala “wobble” action, suspends on pause. All topped off with premium VMC® black nickel hooks, each hand-tuned and tank-tested to ensure top performing action from the start.
