jerkbaits

Jerkbaits are a type of fishing lure designed to mimic the erratic movements of injured baitfish. They are typically hard-bodied lures with a bib or lip at the front, which causes them to dive and wobble when retrieved. The "jerk" in jerkbait refers to the angler's technique of twitching or jerking the rod tip, which causes the lure to dart side-to-side, simulating a struggling prey animal. This action is what often triggers a predatory fish to strike.

Jerkbaits come in various sizes, shapes, and colors to match different fishing conditions and target species. Some are designed to suspend in the water column between twitches, while others float or sink. The lip size and angle influence the diving depth and action of the lure. Anglers often experiment with different retrieve speeds and jerk cadences to find what is most effective.

These lures are particularly popular for catching predatory game fish such as bass, pike, and musky. Their effectiveness lies in their ability to attract attention from a distance and elicit a reaction strike from hesitant fish. The erratic action can be irresistible to predators looking for an easy meal. When fishing with jerkbaits, anglers often employ a stop-and-go retrieve, allowing the lure to pause and exhibit its suspended or floating action before the next series of jerks.