First Impressions of Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure
The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure is a name synonymous with classic fishing, and for good reason. The Rapala brand has been producing lures that catch fish for generations, and the Original Floater is arguably their most iconic offering. This particular model, the size 18, promises to entice a wide variety of predatory fish with its versatile action and lifelike presentation.
I’ve been fishing for over a decade, primarily targeting bass and walleye in the Midwest. I was looking for a lure that could effectively target shallow water fish with a natural presentation. Many of the newer, more complex lures seemed to lack the simple effectiveness of a classic floating minnow bait.
Upon unboxing, the Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure immediately impressed with its quality feel. The construction felt solid, the paint job was realistic, and the VMC hooks looked sharp and durable. The balsa wood construction gives it a lightweight feel, which is crucial for its intended floating action.
Compared to other floating minnow baits, like the Rebel Minnow or the Smithwick Rogue, the Rapala stood out due to its more subtle action. Where other lures boast aggressive rattles and exaggerated wobbles, the Rapala promises a more nuanced and natural presentation. I chose this model specifically for its reputation for triggering strikes in pressured waters where fish have become wary of overly aggressive lures.
My first impression was one of quiet excitement. I felt like I was holding a piece of fishing history, a lure with a proven track record and a design that has stood the test of time. I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world fishing conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place on a local lake known for its clear water and abundant largemouth bass. I focused on casting near submerged weed beds and along fallen timber, targeting areas where bass often ambush prey. The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure performed beautifully, floating enticingly on the surface during pauses and diving to its rated depth of 6-11 feet with a slow, deliberate retrieve.
The lure handled well even in moderate wind conditions, maintaining its action and attracting fish. On my first outing, I hooked into two decent sized largemouth, both falling for the lure’s subtle twitch-and-pause retrieve. The action was smooth, and the lure felt very responsive to subtle rod movements.
There were no immediate issues, though the light balsa construction made me cautious about banging it against rocks or docks. The VMC hooks performed flawlessly, providing solid hooksets.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure continues to perform reliably. It has become a go-to lure in my arsenal, particularly in situations where I need a subtle presentation or when fish are feeding near the surface. The finish has held up surprisingly well, with only minor scratches and chips despite being used around heavy cover.
The durability is decent considering the balsa wood construction, but it’s certainly not as robust as a hard plastic lure. I’ve taken care to avoid casting it into rocky areas or dragging it across the bottom, which has helped to prolong its lifespan. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use.
Compared to some of the newer, more expensive lures I own, the Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure might lack some of the bells and whistles, but it consistently catches fish. Its simple design and proven track record make it a dependable and effective choice for a variety of fishing situations. I consider it a worthwhile addition to my tackle box that consistently out-fishes more expensive lures.
Breaking Down the Features of Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure
Specifications
The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. Its Lure Type is classified as a jerkbait, but it’s versatile enough to be used as a cast and retrieve lure as well. The Tackle Weight is 11/16 oz, providing a good balance between castability and a natural presentation.
The Running Depth is 6 ft – 11 ft, making it ideal for targeting fish in shallow to moderate depths. The Length is 7 inches, a size that appeals to a wide variety of predatory fish. The body is constructed from balsa wood, giving it its signature floating action.
The VMC premium black nickel hooks are exceptionally sharp, ensuring solid hooksets. These specifications matter because they combine to create a lure that is both versatile and effective in a variety of fishing conditions. The floating design allows for a variety of retrieves, from slow, twitching actions to faster, more aggressive presentations.
Performance & Functionality
The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure excels at its primary job: catching fish. Its lifelike action, combined with its ability to float and dive, makes it irresistible to a wide range of predatory species. The lure’s versatility allows it to be fished in various ways, including twitching it on the surface, slow-rolling it along the bottom, or jerking it erratically through the water column.
One of the lure’s strengths is its ability to trigger strikes even when fish are not actively feeding. Its subtle action and natural presentation often entice wary fish that are hesitant to strike more aggressive lures. The only weakness is its vulnerability to damage due to its balsa wood construction.
Overall, the Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure meets and often exceeds expectations, particularly in situations where finesse and a natural presentation are key. It’s a reliable and effective lure that consistently produces results.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure‘s design is simple yet effective. Its slender minnow profile closely resembles natural prey, and its paint job is realistic and durable. The balsa wood construction gives it a lightweight feel, which is essential for its floating action and responsiveness.
The lure is very user-friendly, requiring minimal experience to fish effectively. Its versatility allows anglers to experiment with different retrieves and presentations to find what works best in their local waters. There is virtually no learning curve, making it suitable for both novice and experienced anglers.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure‘s durability is its only real weakness. The balsa wood construction, while contributing to its action, makes it more susceptible to damage than lures made of hard plastic. However, with proper care and maintenance, the lure can last for many fishing trips.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use to remove dirt and debris. It’s important to avoid storing the lure in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the finish and warp the balsa wood. Replacing the hooks when they become dull is also essential for maintaining its effectiveness.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure does not come with any specific accessories. However, its simple design makes it easily customizable. Anglers can change the hooks to different sizes or styles to suit their specific needs, or they can add split rings to increase the lure’s action.
The lure is also compatible with a variety of after-market accessories, such as stick-on weights that allow anglers to fine-tune its buoyancy and running depth. It doesn’t need additional accessories, but they provide an option for anglers who like to tweak their lures.
Pros and Cons of Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure
Pros
- Lifelike action and presentation. The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure mimics the movements of a real baitfish, attracting fish even when they are not actively feeding.
- Versatile lure for various techniques. It can be used for topwater fishing, shallow water retrieves, and even trolling.
- Proven track record of catching fish. The Rapala Original Floater is a legendary lure with a long history of success.
- Sharp VMC hooks for solid hooksets. The premium hooks ensure that fish stay hooked once they strike.
- User-friendly design suitable for all skill levels. It requires no specialized techniques or equipment to fish effectively.
Cons
- Balsa wood construction is less durable than plastic lures. It requires more care to avoid damage.
- Can be expensive compared to other similar lures. The price reflects the quality and craftsmanship, but it may be a deterrent for some anglers.
Who Should Buy Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure?
The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure is perfect for anglers who target predatory fish in shallow to moderate depths, particularly bass, walleye, and pike. It is also an excellent choice for anglers who appreciate classic lure designs and proven effectiveness. This lure is also ideal for anglers who prefer a more subtle and natural presentation.
Anglers who primarily fish in rocky or snag-filled waters may want to consider a more durable lure option. Those seeking aggressive action may also want to explore other options.
Must-have accessories for the Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure include a high-quality fishing line, a reliable rod and reel, and a pair of pliers for removing hooks. Consider high-quality split rings if you plan to swap out hooks.
Conclusion on Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure
The Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure is a timeless classic that continues to catch fish today. Its lifelike action, versatile design, and proven track record make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box. While its balsa wood construction makes it less durable than some other lures, its effectiveness more than makes up for this minor drawback.
The price is justified by the lure’s quality, craftsmanship, and ability to consistently produce results. I personally recommend the Rapala Original Floater 18 Lure to any angler looking for a reliable and effective lure for targeting predatory fish in shallow to moderate depths. Get yours today and experience the thrill of catching fish with a true fishing legend!