Jacob Wheeler, renowned tournament champion, has introduced a revolutionary topwater bait, the ClapTail™ 110, in collaboration with RapalaVMC. His enthusiasm for this unique lure is palpable, as he remarked, "I've never been so excited to release a bait. This bait right here has such a unique action, unique sound, and it catches freakin' bigguns."
The ClapTail™ 110 stands out for its innovative design, featuring a metal prop and back blade that come together during retrieval. This collision creates a distinctive two-tone sound that is specifically designed to attract fish, a feature that Wheeler is particularly proud of. He reflected, "All of a sudden, it gave me the exact sound I wanted. I was like, 'Oh my gosh. This is it.' That bait turned out to be the ClapTail."
Wheeler's journey to creating the ClapTail™ was not without its challenges. He spent two years experimenting until an epiphany struck him in his garage, leading to the creation of a successful prototype. Relating his experience to the origins of the Rapala lure, Wheeler noted the serendipity involved in innovation.
The craftsmanship of the ClapTail™ is evident in its construction. The stainless steel prop and the back blade produce a clapping sound that captivates bass. "We went through several blades to get the best sound that we possibly could with that metal-to-metal contact," explained Wheeler. "That colliding is what makes this one of the most unique topwater sounds to come on the market for years."
"We went through several blades to get the best sound that we possibly could with that metal-to-metal contact,"
Beyond the sound, the ClapTail™ boasts features aimed at enhancing the angler's experience. The lure contains a rotating hook hanger that minimizes leverage for fish once they are hooked, effectively reducing the chances of losing a catch. The addition of a small fin stabilizes the lure during casts, allowing for precise targeting of fishing spots.
Weighing in at ⅞ oz and equipped with two No. 3 VMC Hybrid Trebles, the ClapTail™ is designed to sit tail down in the water. This intentional weight allows for increased resistance, causing the blades to spin faster and enhancing the clapping effect. The lure is available in eight enticing colors: Broken Bone, Black Back Shad, Green Gizzard Shad, Matte Shad, Night Aurora, Okie Bone, Pure Chrome, and True Gill, appealing to a variety of fishing conditions.
The suggested retail price for the ClapTail™ 110 is $18.99, making it a competitive option for anglers looking to elevate their topwater fishing game.
RapalaVMC, the company behind this innovative lure, has a rich history dating back to 1936 when Lauri Rapala invented the original Rapala fishing lure. Growing from its modest beginnings, RapalaVMC has become a leader in the fishing tackle industry, recognized globally for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. As stated by the company, their products are available in over 130 countries, reflecting their durable reputation among fishing enthusiasts.
In essence, the ClapTail™ 110 exemplifies advancement in fishing technology, promising to enhance how anglers attract and catch bass with its unique design and impressive functionality. As this bait hits the market, many expect it to change the landscape of topwater fishing for years to come.
