Jerkbaits for small mouth are different than large mouth. The key is to realize how aggressive small mouth bass are, and use this classic KVD technique to catch more! Enjoy this classic 2005 footage with KVD demonstration and bass fishing, from The Bass Pros series!
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- Strike King 3X Z-Too Jerkbait
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When fishing for smallmouth bass with jerkbaits, the experience is thrilling—they often hit the bait so hard it feels like they might jerk the rod right out of your hands.
Smallmouth bass fishing with jerkbaits requires a different approach compared to largemouth bass. The technique is more aggressive, even in cold water.
Using a floating bait with plenty of action is key. Smallmouth bass are naturally aggressive, so snapping the rod back and forth with force creates an erratic movement that triggers their instincts.
It’s critical to master how you jerk the bait because that determines your success.
How to fish jerkbaits for bass
The most crucial lesson is in how you jerk the bait. Always move the bait with the rod, not the reel. Snap the rod sharply, then let it return to a slack position, pointing right back at the lure.
This ensures the bait moves erratically with each jerk. The reel is in just enough time to pick up the slack after each snap. Starting and finishing with slack in the line enhances the bait’s side-to-side motion, giving it a life-like quality.
The harder you snap the rod, the more dynamic the bait’s movements. This action causes the lure to jump forward and glide unpredictably, which excites smallmouth bass and entices them to strike.
Choosing the Right Color
The color of your jerkbait plays a vital role in its effectiveness. In clear water, opt for natural patterns. If smallmouth bass are following your bait without striking, it might indicate that your color or action needs adjustment.
For cloudy days and clear water, a natural yet visible pattern works best. For instance, in a lake with trout, a rainbow trout pattern can be ideal.
On bright, sunny days, metallic finishes like black and chrome or gold lures reflect light and are highly effective. Matching the bait color to the day’s conditions significantly increases your chances of success.
Tackle Setup for Jerkbait Fishing
The right rod, reel, and line are essential to perfecting your technique. While both spinning and baitcasting setups work, a 6’6″ to 6’10” medium-heavy rod is recommended. A large-capacity reel with a fluorocarbon line—typically 8 to 12-pound test—is a game-changer.
Fluorocarbon is particularly effective because of its low stretch, which enhances the bait’s erratic movement. A stiff rod combined with a fluorocarbon line ensures the lure’s action is sharp and lively, even on long casts.
Erratic Retrieve for Success
To catch big smallmouth bass, avoid falling into a predictable rhythm. Don’t just go “twitch, twitch, pause.” Instead, mix up your retrieve—jerk once, then three times, then twice. The erratic, unpredictable movement is what triggers aggressive strikes.
When you jerk the bait with slack in the line, it darts in random directions, making it appear alive. This erratic motion prevents fish from simply following the bait—they’ll strike instead. A slow, lazy back-and-forth motion often results in fish losing interest.
Final Thoughts about how to fish jerkbaits for bass
Jerkbait fishing for smallmouth bass combines the thrill of aggressive strikes with the finesse of mastering technique. By snapping the rod with precision, choosing the right color for the conditions, and keeping your retrieve unpredictable, you can turn those follows into solid hookups. Perfecting these details can make all the difference in your fishing success.
