Rapala Countdown Elite 9.5cm 14g Gilded Ayu

Rapala Countdown Elite 9.5cm 14g – Controlled-Depth Precision in Gilded Ayu

The Rapala Countdown Elite (CDT Elite) in Gilded Ayu brings time-tested balsa craftsmanship into the modern era, pairing a seductive slow-sink flutter with casting performance and durability built for serious spinning anglers.

Slow, Controlled Descent That Triggers Strikes

The defining feature of the Countdown Elite is its calibrated sinking action. As the lure descends at a predictable rate, it flutters enticingly — giving perch, trout, and other predators an irresistible target. Count it down to the exact depth where fish are holding, then retrieve at that level for a precisely targeted presentation that floating or suspending lures simply can't match.

Modern Build on a Balsa Foundation

Handcrafted from balsa wood, the Countdown Elite inherits Rapala's legendary action and balance. The updated construction adds a through-wire build for extra strength, heavy-duty split rings, and 2X strong black nickel treble hooks by VMC — hardware that won't let you down when a hard-fighting fish is on the line. The Gilded Ayu finish layers metallic effects and HD printing for a shimmering, lifelike appearance that stands out in clear to lightly coloured water.

Choose the Right Colour Variant

All variants share the same 9.5cm (approx. 3¾ in) length, 14g weight, balsa body, and sinking action. Colour choice is your main lever for matching conditions and target species:

• Gilded Ayu — natural silvery-brown baitfish pattern; excellent all-round choice for perch and trout in clear to moderately coloured water

• Gilded Minnow — classic translucent baitfish; versatile in clear water

• Gilded Wakasagi — subtle smelt-style finish; effective in clear, cold conditions

• Gilded Yamame — soft natural tones; suited to trout in clear streams

• Gilded Oikawa — delicate natural colouring for clear-water trout

• Gilded Inakko — understated natural pattern for pressured fish

• Gilded Rainbow Trout — lifelike trout pattern; great for cannibal perch and large trout

• Gilded Iwana — refined natural finish for clear-water presentations

• Gilded Glass Ghost — translucent, flashy; works well in low light or stained water

• Gilded Gold Shad — warm gold tones; effective in murky or coloured water

• Gilded Gold Ayu — brighter gold variant of the Ayu pattern for reduced visibility

• Gilded Gold Red — high-contrast; suited to coloured or dark water

• Gilded Gold Orange — warm, visible tone for deeper or turbid conditions

• Gilded Silver Shad — cool silver flash; ideal for open-water perch fishing

• Gilded Live Roach — realistic roach imitation; top pick for perch and zander

• Gilded Maiwashi — sardine-style flash pattern; versatile attractor

• Gilded Pearl Orange — bright attractor colour for active fish or low-light fishing

• Gilded Red Belly — contrast pattern; good in murky water or for aggressive fish

• Gilded Red Head — classic predator trigger; strong in coloured water

• Gilded Chartreuse Yamame — high-visibility; effective in off-colour water or overcast conditions

• Gilded Chartreuse Orange Belly — bold attractor; suited to stained water and active fish

• Gilded Firetiger — proven high-contrast pattern for aggressive pike and perch

• Gilded Clown — vivid attractor; stands out in poor visibility or for searching

Facts

• Length: 95mm (9.5cm)

• Weight: 14g

• Swimming action: Sinking

• Body material: Balsa wood

• Hooks: 2X strong black nickel treble hooks by VMC

• Hardware: Heavy-duty split rings, through-wire construction

• Target species: Perch, trout

• Lure type: Wobbler / hardbait

• Supplied as: 1 lure in selected colour