Jerkbait

Jerkbaits trigger reaction strikes when fish are suspended or feeding near structure. They mimic injured baitfish with erratic darting action, making them irresistible in clear water and cooler temps.

What Makes a Jerkbait Tick

• Design: Long, slender body with a lip (or sometimes lipless) that controls depth and action
• Action: Twitch, pause, twitch—this cadence creates unpredictable movement that mimics a wounded baitfish
• Suspending vs Floating: Suspending jerkbaits stay in the strike zone longer, while floating ones rise on the pause
• Sizes/Finishes: Match the size of the baitfish. A wide range of colors/finishes/knocks

When to Throw One

• Cold Water: Late fall to early spring when fish are sluggish
• Clear Conditions: Visual appeal is key—jerkbaits shine when fish rely on sight
• Windy Days: Surface disturbance helps mask the bait’s artificial nature

Bullseye Pro-Staff Tips

• Use Lead Strips/Dots/Wire or change trebles to adjust suspending characteristics
• Top Colors - Wakin React, Clown, Pro Blue, Pearl, Shad