Gear Review: Rapala RipStop

What is it?

Rapala RipStop

What sets it apart?

Combine a rip bait with a swimbait and give it a brake pedal. That’s the gist of this innovative new bait from Rapala. Created for that taunting, wounded baitfish look, the RipStop is designed with the ability to “stop on a dime” and mimic the often jerky, stop-and-go movements of natural forage. Best part about that sudden halt is the bait’s suspending nature, which keeps it right in front of whoever was following.

How do I use it?

The Rapala RipStop is made with a durable two-part plastic form, an integrated lip and a hard plastic boot tail, which gives the bait a hard rolling, slashing action. Modified flat sides ensure maximum flash for this silent bait. Made to run 3 to 4 feet deep, the bait measures 3 1/2 inches and weighs 1/4 ounce. The RipStop is available in 14 colors and each bait comes fitted with VMC black nickel fine wire hooks (No. 6 & 7).

How much?

$9.99

More Information:

Rapala.com

Angler’s insight:

Go, stop, go, stop — might sound like a spirited game of Simon Says, but I’m thinking this bait’s gonna do a number on all three of the black bass faves. Seems like a natural for the fall feeding fest, but smallmouth bedding in shallow water over clear gravel bottom ought to crush this bait. The RipStop also looks like a killer bait for slow, erratic twitching for prespawners staging along bluff banks.