Rapala R90 90 Years Lure Kit – Countdown Small Bright

Rapala R90 90th Anniversary Lure Kit: “Countdown Small Bright” Edition

A century of craftsmanship in the palm of your hand. At Gerry’s Fishing, we are proud to stock this strictly limited Rapala R90 90 Years Lure Kit. For nearly a century, Rapala has set the gold standard for balsa wood lures, and the “Small Bright” kit is a vibrant celebration of that journey.

Curated specifically for light-lure enthusiasts targeting Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and Perch, this kit offers a unique “timeline” of lure evolution. From a classic attractor pattern to the high-tech Elite series, these lures represent the pinnacle of responsibly sourced balsa manufacturing. Each lure is hand-tuned and tank-tested, ensuring that legendary “wounded minnow” action right out of the box.

The Anniversary Selection

This kit features three 5cm-class lures, each with a distinct purpose:

1. CountDown 5cm – Gold Fluorescent Red (Vintage Edition): A tribute to the high-contrast “attractor” patterns that have filled trout bags for decades. Perfect for aggressive fish or low-light conditions.

2. CountDown 5cm – Artistic Trout: A modern marvel of design. This features custom HD digital printing to create a hyper-realistic silhouette that can fool the wariest specimen trout in crystal-clear water.

3. CountDown Elite 5.5cm – Gilded Pink Yamame: The flagship of the collection. The Elite version offers superior casting distance, a wire-through frame for durability, and a seductive flutter on the drop that the standard models don’t have.

Technical Specifications

Pro Tip from Gerry’s Fishing

The “Reaction vs. Realism” Swap: This kit is a tactical masterclass. If you are fishing in slightly colored water or during a “feeding frenzy,” start with the Gold Fluorescent Red to grab attention. However, if the fish are following but not hitting, immediately switch to the Artistic Trout. The shift from high-viz flash to HD realism often triggers a “mercy strike” from trout that have become wary of bright colors.

Examples of Where to Use

• Small Becks and Streams: The 5cm profile is the ultimate “match the hatch” size for minnows and small fry in cramped, overgrown waters.

• Canal Perch Hunting: Use the “CountDown” method to sink the Gilded Pink Yamame alongside bridge pilings or lock gates where big Perch wait in ambush.

• Stillwater Trout Ponds: The “Small Bright” colors are exceptionally effective for stocked Rainbow Trout that respond well to vibrant, moving targets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the “Elite” version different from the standard CountDown?

The CountDown Elite 5.5cm in this kit is built with a more aerodynamic shape for longer, more accurate casts. It also features a “flutter” on the drop, meaning the lure shimmies as it sinks, whereas the standard 5cm model sinks in a more stable, level posture.

Is this kit a limited edition?

Yes. The R90 series was produced specifically to celebrate Rapala’s 90th anniversary (1936–2026). Once these kits are sold out, they will not be reproduced in this configuration.

Are these lures lead-free?

Yes, consistent with Rapala’s modern environmental standards, the lures in this kit are lead-free, making them safe for use on all UK and European waterways.

Can I use these for Saltwater?

While they are highly effective for light saltwater species like Scad or small Bass, we recommend a thorough freshwater rinse after every session. The VMC Black Nickel hooks are sharp and strong but will require care to prevent corrosion in salty environments