Wired2fish’s Kyle Peterson lists the jerkbait as his favorite all-around artificial lure category for catching predator fish. He guides through an extended discussion of why jerkbaits should be a cornerstone in your tackle arsenal if you’re a serious multi-species angler and bridging fresh and saltwater fishing. You’ll see abundant underwater video and fish catches to support his claims along the way. *Product links at the bottom.
JERKBAITS: A TIMELESS CLASSIC
Jerkbaits have consistently captured the imagination of fishing enthusiasts. With an irresistible minnow profile, these lures attract many species – from smallmouth and largemouth bass to northern pike and walleye. Peterson explores an impressive array of jerkbaits, emphasizing their never-fading allure in triggering bass, crappies, and even marine species like blackfin tuna and barracuda.
TYPES AND TACTICS
Choosing the right jerkbait can often spell the difference between success and fishless outings. There are three main categories: floating, suspending, and sinking jerkbaits. Peterson sheds light on the nuances of each and when to use based on fish behavior and habitat. Factors such as bait size and noise also come into play as Peterson recounts personal experiences to highlight their significance.
GEARING UP
Jerkbait fishing rods can be as diverse as the lures themselves. Peterson delves into choosing the ideal rod length, selecting between spinning rods and more traditional casting setups, and the impact of lure size on fish attraction. With fish becoming increasingly discerning due to fishing pressures, experimenting with different sizes and colors becomes crucial (and fun!).
ON-THE-WATER ACTION
This video merges studio insights with on-the-water action. Specifically, Peterson addresses the influential role of forward-facing sonar in jerkbait fishing. The lure and fish finder become one system for targeting and triggering fish. With a fish as your target, your jerkbait becomes a precision-guided lure with the right cast. With your bait on-target, the jerkbait is a free-style lure meaning you can impart wide-ranging action and adjust to the fish’s mood with forward-facing sonar. That’s the power few other lures can deliver.
JERKBAITS (in order as shown in video)
KYLE’S ROD SETUP (during in-boat hosting)
FORWARD-FACING SONAR AS SHOWN
KYLE’S SETUP
OTT DEFOE’S SETUP
KYLE’S BOAT SETUP
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