Rapala DT Series 16' Ike-Blue Back Herring

The Rapala DT Series 16' Ike-Blue Back Herring is a balsa crankbait built to reach deep water fast and work the strike zone longer than most comparable lures. If you're targeting bass, pike, or walleye at depth, the DT's rapid-dive design and efficient casting distance make it a workhorse for covering water and staying where hungry fish are holding. The 16-foot dive depth puts you in productive territory without the drag of a heavier plug, and the Ike-Blue Back Herring finish is a proven pattern for bright-water conditions and forage-matching presentations.

What sets the DT apart is its construction: Rapala mills these crankbaits from premium balsa wood, hand-tuning and tank-testing each lure before it ships. The carefully positioned internal weights and tapered body design let the lure nose-dive quickly to depth and hold that depth with a natural, side-to-side swimming action that balsa wood excels at delivering. You get a lure that casts cleanly—even 150 feet with modest effort—and because it reaches its target depth so efficiently, every cast spends maximum time in the zone. The polycarbonate lip is thin and aggressive, digging hard without creating excessive water resistance.

Sound matters underwater, and the DT's internal rattle is tuned to project clearly and attract fish from distance. The Ike-Blue Back Herring pattern arrives with 3D holographic or painted eyes (details by paint lot) and premium VMC black nickel hooks rated for consistent hook sets and solid holding power. If you fish deeper structure, rocky points, or current-fed holes, the DT's no-nonsense dive speed and proven action make it a reliable choice for adding to your crankbait arsenal.

Key Features

• Rapid dive to 16 feet—reaches productive depth fast and stays there
• Premium balsa wood construction with internal weights for authentic side-to-side swimming action
• Long casting distance for efficient water coverage
• Hand-tuned and tank-tested for consistent performance out of the box
• Internal rattle tuned for underwater sound projection
• Premium VMC black nickel hooks
• 3D holographic or painted eyes
• Ike-Blue Back Herring finish—forage-matching pattern for various water conditions

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish species is the Rapala DT Series 16' best for?

The DT is a versatile deep-diving crankbait effective on bass, pike, walleye, and other species that hunt at depth. The 16-foot dive depth and balanced action make it suitable for both freshwater lakes and reservoirs where fish relate to structure in the 15–20 foot range.

How far can you cast the DT Series 16'?

The DT's balsa construction and internal weighting allow casts of up to 150 feet, which helps you cover more water and extend the time the lure spends in the strike zone on each retrieve.

Does the DT Series come ready to fish out of the box?

Yes. Each DT crankbait is hand-tuned and tank-tested by Rapala before shipment to ensure it swims correctly and performs as designed from the first cast.

What does the Ike-Blue Back Herring finish look like?

Ike-Blue Back Herring is a forage-matching pattern that pairs blue-back coloring with herring-pattern details. It's a proven color for bright or clear water and for situations where matching natural baitfish is effective.