X Rap vs Shadow Rap (Shad?) vs Flat Rap

[Andrewphe]

Hey Guys,

Wondering what the difference is between the X Rap, Shadow Rap and the Flat Rap. All seem pretty similar and I wanted to know what some of the differences, uses and your preferences are. Thanks!

[jr231]

They all catch fish. I reach for the x-rap when I want a slimmer profile. The flat rap for more flash usually in more stained water . And the shadow rap for a bigger appearance . 

[Bluebasser86]

I believe the flat rap is a floater, while the X rap suspends, and the shadow rap is a slow sinker. They all catch fish. 

[smalljaw67]

The shadow rap shad I use in cooler water, not cold but cool, 65 down to 55. The reason is that it floats but it is slower than a regular floating minnow like the flat rap. As for the flat rap itself, I'm a big fan, gin clear, shallow water during summer for river smallmouth is perfect for the flat rap. I like the size 8 in clown or chrome, both give of the perfect flash and I've never used it that it didn't catch fish, I'm glad I have a dozen of each size as they are discontinued. I like the size 10 in purpledescent fishing over shallow weed beds for largemouth but the water has to be clear, if there is more than a stain that there is less than 18" of visibility I'll use a Rattlin' Rogue because of the rattles, the fish are a little more aggressive when the water is darker. The flat rap is more subtle, it has an erratic action like all minnow baits when retrieved with hard rips but the beauty of it is the amount of flash it gives off and the high floatation, you stop it and it comes up faster than plastic baits and sometimes that is a trigger. The Flat Rap is a completely different lure than the Shadow Rap Shad, at least to me it is as I'm using them in very different situations. Make no mistake though, if you have reasonably clear water or you are in shallow and you see small bait fish flicker or break the surface, tie on the smaller size 8 in one of the chrome finishes because when bass are chasing those small minnows nothing mimics them better because of the way they flash and the tighter action.

[jr231]

18 hours ago, Bluebasser86 said:

I believe the flat rap is a floater, while the X rap suspends, and the shadow rap is a slow sinker. They all catch fish. 

 

True ! Water temps make those vary however... For instance that x-rap isn't going to suspend in the dog days of summer. But I wouldn't let it sit much anyway ! Awesome baits and rapala offers some of the best value hardbaits there are IMO.