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Smallmouth Bass Bait Tips

Smallmouth and jerkbaits are synonymous terms with anglers. The smallmouth is undeniably the most aggressive of the bass and its predator instinct is easily triggered by the jerking action of this “reaction bait.”

Using a weighted jerkbait increases coverage of the strike zone, expanding the opportunities for using this lure throughout the year.

More than most lures, weighted jerkbaits demand the right "cadence" (retrieve timing) to draw strikes. This is because they're being used to tempt sluggish bass in cold water. Here are some retrieves to try:

Sinking Retrieve (extremely cold water):

Make a long cast to the target zone.As soon as the lure hits the water, jerk the rod tip sharply so the bait dives.

Stop. Hold the rod parallel to the water and to the side.Twitch the rod tip, reel up slack, and twitch again, much as when fishing a plastic worm. Repeat.

When properly weighted, the lure will sink slowly between twitches like a dying shad.Most strikes occur as the lure sinks slowly. Watch your line. If it jumps, set the hook hard.

Remember that bass will be extremely sluggish in cold water. Start by allowing at least 5 seconds between twitches. Vary the cadence until you contact fish.Suspending Retrieve (45-55 degrees):

Repeat steps 1-5 above. When weighted properly, the lure will suspend between twitches, like a living baitfish.Begin by pausing 3 to 5 seconds between twitches. Experiment until you find an effective cadence.

Watch for the line to jump, then set the hook hard.

Ripping Retrieve (55-65 degrees):

This retrieve works when the lure is weighted to either suspend or rise very slowly after being twitched.

Make a long cast to the target zone.

When the lure hits the water, sweep the rod tip from 3 to 4 feet to the side. This will cause it to dart and flutter like a fleeing baitfish.

Pause 3 to 5 seconds while reeling up slack, then sweep rod again.

Most strikes occur on the pause, when the lure either suspends or rises slowly. Watch your line and set the hook hard if it moves.

Again, vary the cadence until fish react positively. Pros report waiting 10 seconds or longer between twitches at times.