Rapala Countdown

Rapala CountDown® is a sinking balsa minnow developed around the “countdown” method, which allows anglers to repeatedly target a desired depth by letting the lure sink at a consistent rate. After casting, count the seconds to let it reach the target depth, then work it through the water while keeping it from rising easily during the retrieve, allowing you to target suspended fish and fish near the bottom. According to the manufacturer, it sinks at a rate of 1 foot per second, making it easy to reproduce a consistent depth range.

The weighted balsa body produces a slow rolling action during the retrieve. In addition to casting, it can also be used for trolling, with the fishing depth adjusted by varying the retrieve speed and countdown time. Each lure is hand-tuned and tank-tested before shipment and is equipped with VMC black nickel hooks. The CD7 measures 2-3/4 inches (approximately 7 cm) in length, weighs 1/4 oz, and has a manufacturer-stated running depth of 5–8 feet, with two No. 7 hooks. The CD9 measures 3-1/2 inches (approximately 9 cm) in length, weighs 7/16 oz, and has a running depth of 7–10 feet, with two No. 5 hooks. Since body size, weight, target depth range, and hook size vary by model, anglers can choose the appropriate model based on the target depth and bait size.