# **How to Choose SPRO Mike McClelland Rock Crawler RK Crawler 55 Crankbait – Choice of Colors**
When it comes to crankbaits, few lures can match the versatility and effectiveness of the **SPRO Mike McClelland Rock Crawler RK Crawler 55**. Designed by legendary angler Mike McClelland, this crankbait is engineered to excel in rocky structures, shallow flats, and submerged vegetation—making it a must-have for bass fishermen.
One of the most critical aspects of selecting the right crankbait is **color choice**. The right hue can mean the difference between a trophy catch and a slow day on the water. In this guide, we’ll break down the **best color selections** for the RK Crawler 55 and how to match them to different fishing conditions.
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## **Understanding the RK Crawler 55’s Design**
Before diving into colors, it’s essential to understand why this crankbait performs so well:
– **Compact, Flat-Sided Body**: Enhances a tight wobble, mimicking a fleeing baitfish.
– **Diving Depth (4-6 ft)**: Perfect for shallow to mid-depth cranking.
– **Internal Weight System**: Ensures long, accurate casts and a stable retrieve.
– **Premium Hooks & Split Rings**: Built for durability and hook-setting power.
With these features, the RK Crawler 55 excels in **clear, stained, and even slightly muddy waters**—but choosing the right color is key to maximizing its potential.
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## **Best Color Choices for Different Conditions**
### **1. Natural & Translucent Colors (Clear Water & Sunny Days)**
When fishing in **clear water**, bass rely heavily on sight, so natural patterns that imitate local forage work best.
– **Ghost Minnow**: A subtle, translucent shad pattern that excels in ultra-clear lakes.
– **Green Gizzard Shad**: Mimics gizzard shad, a staple forage in many bass fisheries.
– **Bluegill Flash**: Perfect for waters where bluegill are a primary food source.
**Best Use**: Slow to medium retrieves with occasional pauses to trigger reaction strikes.
### **2. Bold & Contrasting Colors (Stained to Muddy Water)**
In **low-visibility conditions**, bass rely more on vibration and contrast. Bright or dark colors with high visibility help them locate the bait.
– **Red Craw**: A classic crawfish imitation with a red-orange belly—ideal for rocky bottoms.
– **Chartreuse/Black Back**: High-visibility in murky water, great for overcast days.
– **Black/Blue Flash**: A dark profile that stands out in heavily stained water.
**Best Use**: Aggressive, steady retrieves to maximize vibration and visibility.
### **3. Reaction Strike Colors (Choppy Water & Overcast Days)**
When bass are aggressive but visibility is low due to wind or clouds, **metallic and flashy** colors can trigger instinctive strikes.
– **Chrome Sexy Shad**: Reflective finish that mimics baitfish in choppy conditions.
– **Gold/Black Back**: Works well in tannic or slightly stained water.
– **Firetiger**: A high-contrast pattern for aggressive fish in changing light.
**Best Use**: Fast, erratic retrieves with occasional jerks to imitate fleeing prey.
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## **Final Tips for Choosing the Right RK Crawler 55 Color**
1. **Match the Hatch** – Observe local baitfish and crawfish colors before selecting.
2. **Adjust for Water Clarity** – Clear = natural, stained/muddy = bold.
3. **Experiment Under Different Light** – Some colors work better in direct sunlight vs. shade.
4. **Carry Multiple Options** – Always have at least 2-3 colors to adapt to changing conditions.
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## **Conclusion**
The **SPRO Mike McClelland Rock Crawler RK Crawler 55** is a powerhouse crankbait, but **color selection** plays a massive role in its effectiveness. By understanding water clarity, light conditions, and forage preferences, you can choose the perfect hue to trigger more strikes.
For anglers looking to stock up, **KyleBooker Fishing Gear** offers a wide selection of RK Crawler 55 colors—ensuring you’re always prepared for any fishing scenario.
**Tight lines and happy cranking!** 🎣