Q&A for How to Use Rapala Lures

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  • Question
    How do you determine what fishing lure to use?
    Michael Reynolds
    Professional Fishing Instructor
    Michael Reynolds is a Professional Fishing Instructor and the Owner of Long Beach, California Fishing Lessons by Michael Reynolds. In his over 40 years of fishing experience, Michael has become very knowledgeable about the variety of fishing methods and techniques. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge with beginners to experienced anglers. Michael has been guiding and teaching fishing for over five years and is licensed and bonded with the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW).
    Professional Fishing Instructor
    Expert Answer
    Match the Hatch! Look for baitfish or other types of possible bait living in the area where you will fish and match them! My preference is anything with a green, or orange shading to it, because most fish food consists of these two magic colors.
  • Question
    How do I know the distance to pull my plugs behind my boat?
    Community Answer
    The deeper you want to fish, the more line you need to let out behind the boat.
  • Question
    What about trolling rapala lures for brown trout and salmon?
    Community Answer
    Try this set-up: Trolling at 1-1.5 mph, watch depth finder, stay in 20-25' deep water. Using 8-10 lb test. Let out 125' of line with no weight. Direct tie, no swivel. Rapala neutral jointed minnow (I like J11) should dive to 15'-18' of water. For lake and brown trout move to 50' water deep, add small split shot 4' from lure and increase to 2mph. This works well.
  • Question
    Can I use a bubble to cast rapala farther?
    Community Answer
    No, as it will ruin the action of the lure. If you want to cast longer, switch to lighter line on a long 6- to 7-foot pole, and a spinning reel.
  • Question
    Do the hooks need to be baited?
    Community Answer
    No! The lure is the bait, and if bait is attached, most lures won't work the way they were designed to.
  • Question
    Can I use a rapala lure with a dodger or a flasher?
    Community Answer
    Of course. I used them together all the time with great success in catching various species of salmon, and walleye too.
  • Question
    What is the best lure for northern pike?
    Community Answer
    Anything big and flashy with a lot of colors, like chartreuse, pink, white, silver or gold. And you will want the rapela to have rattles and make a lot of noise to attract the bigger pike.
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