Rapala X-Rap 

The Rapala X-Rap is legendary among smallmouth anglers for a reason: it combines an erratic slashbait action with suspending ability that mimics a wounded baitfish — a presentation that often triggers aggressive strikes from river smallies. You can work it fast or slow, with sharp twitches and pauses that keep it in the strike zone — a must when fishing current breaks and structure where smallmouth hold.

Smallmouth are notoriously sight-oriented predators, and the X-Rap’s flash, realistic body profile, and ability to stay in the water column during pauses make it a go-to for many river smallmouth anglers.

Best Sizes for River Smallmouth

Different sizes help you dial into what the fish want on any given day:

• #6 – Great all-around size for river smallmouth. Easy to cast in tighter current and excellent on spinning gear when fish are feeding on smaller baitfish.

• #8 – A slightly larger presentation that’s deadly when smallmouth are keying on bigger bait or showing more aggression. It also casts farther into current seams.

Both sizes are easy to work through seams, eddies, and rock structures where river smallmouth feed.

Color Picks for Rivers

Top color choices

• Olive Green / Perch: natural baitfish imitation in clear water.