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Springtime is prime time to use jerkbaits to root out and trigger bass unwilling to commit to other moving baits. Nick Siepker dives into the nuances of jerkbait fishing, offering seasoned insights that promise to improve performance depending on the conditions and the desired lure action.
FEATURED PRODUCT (retail links)
- JERKBAIT – Megabass Vision ONETEN, color – Pro Blue: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- HOOKS – VMC RedLine Series Finesse Treble Hooks: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- REEL – Lew’s Speed Spool LFS Casting Reel, 8.3:1: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- ROD – G. Loomis Casting Rod, 6’3” Medium (legacy product)
- LINE – Seaguar InvizX Fluorocarbon Line, 12- to 15-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- SPLIT RING PLIERS – Rapala Split Ring Scissors: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
CUSTOMIZING YOUR JERKBAIT FOR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE
Siepker begins by discussing some easy and impactful jerkbait modifications. From swapping stock treble hooks for heavier varieties for improved action to weighting techniques for desired depth control, it’s easy to modify a stock jerkbait for the conditions. Customization is crucial for achieving the perfect sink rate and action, especially in pressured waters.
DEPTH CONTROL AND BAIT ACTION
As Siepker states, dying shad don’t typically rise; instead, they slowly sink with their nose in a downward 45-degree orientation. He makes tweaks to get his bait to do the same. This approach and strategic weight adjustments allow him to target bass from the shallows to deeper water. The goal is a lure that perfectly suspends or slowly sinks, matching the prevailing conditions.
PRECISION CASTING AND KEEPING THE BAIT IN THE STRIKE ZONE
Casting accuracy and keeping the jerkbait within the strike zone is essential. Siepker makes targeted casts alongside structure while using forward-facing sonar to ensure the bait remains visible to bass without exiting the strike zone. Intentional casts, paired with a bait that suspends nose-down, leads to more bites.
OPTIMAL ROD SETUP FOR JERKBAIT FISHING
A tuned jerkbait rod also has an impact on bait performance. Siepker prefers a shorter rod than usual—he feels a 6’3″ medium-action rod offers better control and minimizes bait movement out of the strike zone. He pairs this with a heavier fluorocarbon line and a fast reel to efficiently work the bait at desired depths, even in tougher conditions.
