Erratic Rip Rap and Rock Cranking.
This bait has some of the most erratic action I have ever seen out of a medium diving crank bait, especially when thrown around any kind of rock or rip rap. The RkCrawler 55 excels in rocky bottom lakes around the Ozarks and the Great Lakes region, but catches bass all over the country.
01. Performs in All Water Temperatures
This bait seriously works all year. I have caught fish in the bitter cold days leading up to first ice and I have also caught fish in the heat of August. This bait is truly versatile. The small compact size makes it a perfect snack when the bass are lethargic.
02. Erratic, Hunting Action
Whether you crank it slowly over chunk rock or burn it around rip rap this bait will hunt and dart with random movements like a fleeing crawfish. I have had more success speed cranking this lure for reaction bites, but have certainly caught them slowly working this bait, as well. This bait can take a beating, so don’t be afraid to chuck it around rocks and run it aggressively over cover.
03. Speed Crank and Pause
The most productive way to work this bait is to crank this lure at a high speed, then kill it as you hit cover. The erratic action of the lure will get the fish’s attention, then when you pause the bass will smoke it. You can work this bait in a variety of ways, but I have found this method to be the most effective.
04. Hardware and Specs
These crankbaits are equipped with #5 Gamakatsu hooks, so they are ready to roll right out of the package. The RkCrawler 55 weighs in at 1/2 ounce and can be launched when paired with the right rod. I have been using a 6 inch 9 foot, medium power, moderate action casting rod, and it has been a blast to fish with. With a long cast this lure will dig down to depths of 9 to 14 feet depending on your line test. I use 12 pound test fluorocarbon and it easily dives down past 12 feet.
05. Favorite Colors
This crankbait was designed to imitate crawfish, so I mostly stick with the craw patterns. My favorite colors are Phantom Brown, Phantom Green, Ozark Craw and Spring Craw. I use the phantom colors when the skies are clear and sunny with high water visibility. I turn to the Ozark Craw and Spring Craw when the water is a bit murkier, or the sky is overcast.
Conclusion
If you fish around rock and rip rap a lot, definitely try this crankbait out, you won’t be disappointed. Tie this up on your favorite cranking set up and get out on the water!