All those and one more for you. Looking at the surface and weather, to fish a rapala as a top water is good to. After seeing a 2" shad on the surface just quivering, I worked on this one. I call it scrubbing the top. Rapala floats high, I cast it out, let the rings spread and I'll keep my line Simi slack and shake the tip from side to side maybe 6" causing it to quiver on the surface. Pull 6"-12" and repeat. The conditions need to be right and if they want it on top, it can be a killer. Try it out!
I remember meeting a guy fishing in PA back in 88' I was 12 and was already a dead serious bass fisherman. He showed me that technique and it is effective but, as you said the conditions have to be just right.
This is my go to technique in the spring with the rapala floating minnow black and silver in color and I caught my pb this year that way. Threw it right after he blew up on top water then threw it in and popped it twice and she was hook d
Ty great tips . Don’t let the negative crowd get you down . There watching because they don’t have faith in there abilities they are secretly loving the videos .
I was in Northern, MI in early May this year and I saw a smallie following my jerkbait to the boat after working the jerkbait with slow pauses. The light bulb when off in my head and I did the fast retrieve you were talking about. Caught fish on the next 2 casts. I then proceeded to catch a total of 12 fish in one 40 yard spot for the next 30 mins. There were the only fish I caught that day but they were all over 3, with a few around 4 and one over 5. Retrieves can be everything. I saw first hand what you were talking about.
Finally someone that’s fishes like I do with this lure👍, So many videos explain different ways with this lure and they limit the action of it with rod action. You can work the rod in 20 different ways and get better action then 1 rod action technique. Great video for people needing good instruction 👍
I think these videos are awesome Most fishing videos just show lures and fishing them without explaining the retrieve I don’t have alot of experience so this is helpful
I realize this video is a year old but I really did like this series of videos. I’ve always viewed them as a “Think Outside the box”. Many people get into that road stare when fishing any type of lure so it helps to have some tricks up your sleeve. PS the Berkley Stunna is a Musky Killer!
I fish a jearkbait a lot never even thought about popping it up every now and then on my retrieve so I will try that next time and the name of these videos does not bug me because I learn new retrieves that I never even thought off
I got to tell you. I am 63 years old. Just bought a couple of Jerkbait's. Never fish one in my life. Going to give them a try. Right after. I try the Berkley cullshad in 6 inch size. But, The Jerkbait is in the line up. Thanks for a great video on how to twitch the jerkbait. Shawn.
If someone gets their shorts in a bind because of the titles you choose to use, it's because they believe they know more than you and aren't going to watch it no matter what. I've been around for 80 years, fished about 75 of them and have yet to scratch the surface on fishing techniques as everyone fishes different than you or I do and a wise old owl once chirped open the mind and close the mouth and you will undoubtedly learn something new. And by golly that old bird was correct. Keep the videos coming I enjoy them even if I know some of what you are describing. Cheerio and GO PAC!
I like the title! I totally get what you're saying and why you do it. And a lot of the time, it's certainly true. I like to work a jerkbait with no pauses like KVD from post spawn up until fall. I've been on that bite all year and it's got me some really nice fish.
That 90% of Anglers doing it wrong is what caught my attention lol second video here. Going to do some binging on this channel 😁 btw, this is the first video I've seen (and I've watched a bunch) where exactly how you are jerking the bait is FULLY explained down to every detail. Fantastic!
How does Matt only have 32k subscribers? I guess bc the channel is fairly new, but this information is top notch. It's just a matter of time until this channel takes off.
I am actually really offended that people are offended by your tittles! Lol. Since I found your channel I have learned so much, I never threw a senko now I’ve got a whole binder full and it’s been my go to work horse. Every day you give out quality information and produce great videos FOR FREE. Sure people can have opinions but when a professional angler devotes his time to help us weekend warriors how can you complain? Imo lol I do enjoy the videos of You on the water it’s nice to see a pro in his element I feel you get a better since of what you’re trying to explain.
I just started using a jerkbait a few weeks ago for smallmouth. I'm now addicted and I'm going to see if it will work on other lakes for largemouth. Thanks for the tips on how to fish it differently. I'll be trying these out very soon.
Right? And how do you not know it’s for the algorithm. Lol. The whole point of making a video is to get the views while we get the info and insight in return. Thanks Matt.
The several jerks and the snap up is exactly how I fish streamer flies and the like. A couple of quick side ways jerks of the rod and a snap up. Also how I fish spoons, spinners, many soft plastics and a lot of things. Pauses and upward fleeing motions are great triggers on most baits, lures and flies.
Always enjoy Matt’s videos truly are educational, I don’t 100% agree with his retrieve, or spinning gear but like anything do what you have confidence in and works for you. That being said his tip about the upward pop is 100% dead on, you ain’t doing it, you missing out
I caught a 40" pike in northern Minnesota on a 5" gold Husky Jerk. Not knowing any better, I tossed it over the side as we slowly moved from one spot to another, just wanted to see its action in the water. As soon as we pulled up on our new spot the water exploded as the pike went airborne on the take, then it was game on. I think it was that final stop and the slow rise that triggered the massive strike. Beauty fish, hey.
Have been waiting for this video since you started doing these retrieve videos. Thank you for the the video on jerkbait retries, your one on crankbaits definitely help me increase my crankbait confidence and catch more fish on them. So I hope I can take what I learned from this video and do the same with jerkbait. One quick question, is there a reason you prefer to use a spinning setup versus a baitcaster setup for jerkbaits?
Yep! I can cast further, get my bait running deeper, get better action out of the bait and find it to be easier on my body when fishing with it all day. I use mine on 6 lb test generally
I like the no-retrieve option.😂 I've caught two 3 lb largemouth recently that smashed my black/silver shadow rap 11 as soon as it hit the water. Granted, they were chasing shad at the time.
Glad to see someone throwing a jerk bait on spinning… I’ve needed help with the technique for a while, and I live in an extremely windy area where I’m often throwing jerk baits in 15+ mph winds. Hard to get distance for me with a bait caster in high wind and I always felt dumb throwing on spinning.
Don't feel bad throwing a spinning combo. I take three spinners and three BC's with me in my kayak. Most of the time I'm using spinning combo's because the finesse baits seem to work better where I fish. The have their time and place.
We’re getting rain down here in Texas as well. One of the lake I frequent has came up 8-9’ in the past 2 weeks. It added about 3500 acres of surface area.
Another great video Matt. How do you determine when to use floating vs suspending vs slow sinking? Do you ever use suspendots to make a suspending jerkbait a slow sinker?
Slowest thinking is awesome if you are fishing at around cover and don’t have room to cast the bait a long ways and let it dive naturally. I love casting slow sinking jerkbaits into little pockets of docks and letting it sink before retrieving it
Neat. I include “upward” jerks when I use a fluke. I don’t really throw a jerk bait much, so this is a great reference video as I enlarge my technique repertoire. Thanks.
I like to tie a square bill that dives say 12-15 feet, and on a second rod I tie on a Suspending Jerk Bait that runs at 5-7 feet, and I can slow walk both profiles on the surface as wake baits. So, I am working every part of the water column from the surface to the depth of my diving lure, and everything in between with just 2 lures...
I have been surprised at the number of people that look at me strange when I fish jerkbaits in the summer. I've found the deeper diving suspending jerkbaits work great in the summer.
Rapala X-rap is the baddest boy on the block. Because it's neutrally buoyant, it can sit still. Just like a real fish. I like to think of it as a pause bait. It can cover a lot of water and stop on a dime. Once you have their attention with some of these sweet moves, just stop. You will torture those fish into biting just by being patient. Thanks for the good pointers. Things I will try this spring.
One of my favorite baits and seeing that Table Rock is one of my home lakes we use jerkbaits all year round and your retrieves are right on for here in Missouri!!!
That's funny you speak about that upward jerk. I do that as well, and there are days I blister fish when buddies can't buy a bite with the same bait. I snap my wrist backwards as well, as it gives the bait a different action. I fish lefty, and it just really seems to work well for me. I fish a JB year round and have for some time. I don't t make a habit of telling folks on my home lake that I use a JB year round on open water, but it works and works well. I tend to have alot more accidental walleye than most guys using the jb year round too. I also use a jb in shallow water with upward snaps the whole way fishing it like a fluke, and get bit well doing that. I think its different enough that fish aren't seeing it every time a boat goes by.
I’ve looked at your videos/entries you don’t have anything for High Rock Lake in North Carolina, and I am a kayak fisher so it’s a lot harder for me to get around as fast as you guys do With those bass boats.
I use my rapala like a top water . Slow run it just below the surface . Pause , let it float up . Twitch , twitch pause . It seems to work in Florida .
Very interesting..... Just getting back into fishing & I used to just real in repeals & rebels pretty much straight in aside from speeding up & slowing down here & there. Well I caught a couple here / there but nothing to speak of , look forward to trying this thank you😊
Just had a ton of fun trying my first few casts this evening( mid augst) in our major river system. I had a massive stripper follow it to the shore and hammer it about 6 feet in front of me. My question is would using an oil or scent of some kind help to get them to commit? Great video tho! Thanx for the solid info with no fluff!
I have caught several long nose gar on a jerk bait. Those fish put up one heck of a fight. Thank you for taking the time to make these videos to help us out in our fishing.
@@bloodybonescomic I have heard it both ways. Some say it’s the best fish to eat others say it’s absolutely disgusting. The next time I catch one I am going to try it and see
It was once very common in fish markets here in Louisiana, or so they say. I've eaten it a few times and liked it. They say it's important to get them on ice asap. Gar often thrive in dirty contaminated waterways that other fish can't tolerate, and Ive noticed that basically every consumption advisory I've ever read listed gar as an affected species. IMPORTANT THAT YOU DO NOT EAT THE ROE! It is stupid poisonous and will make you sick as hell.
@@MattStefanFishing so far affect the position and mood of bass any? I’ve heard it both ways. If your seeing gar the bass ain’t there, and I’ve heard that bass don’t care if the gar are in the area.
ignore the haters that complain about the titles........They either don't have a youtube channel, or have one but it gets no views because they have boring titles that don't get views, or have channel and they do the same thing with the titles but are calling you out for it. Making titles like this is just something you have to do to be successful with a youtube channel.
CRIB REPORT: We have multiple bass and crappie on the sunken cypress trees. Seem to very active and curious! Super exciting stuff. Had a 3lb bass sizing up the camera. Seems like they have fully acclimated to new cover!
Or just like changing up the cadences, you could change up the titles. Personally, I would be more attracted to a title that says something about suggestions for being successful. Positive instead of negative marketing.
I like to tie a square bill that dives say 12-15 feet, and on a second rod I tie on a Suspending Jerk Bait that runs at 5-7 feet, and I can slow walk both profiles on the surface as wake baits. So, I am working every part of the water column from the surface to the depth of my diving lure, and everything in between with just 2 lures...
Another short, yet informative video Matt, nice work. I have been really enjoying and picking up on the knowledge you have been dropping. One of my favorite things to do while watching your videos is seeing how I can take your knowledge and apply it to my region of fishing (live in Virginia/primary body of water is the Potomac) specifically. Great points made on using spinning tackle for jerkbaits (hard bait). I will use a bait caster when throwing a soft plastic jerkbait during scenarios where I want accuracy and feel. But, I’ve pulled hooks way too many times on fish with those sharp/thin treble hooks (as you mentioned in the video) to have confidence to throw it. I see people set hooks and then tighten their drags but I’ve found that to be inefficient. Not to say it’s a technique that shouldn’t be leveraged (there’s always scenarios, that’s why we love bass fishing). But if you think about it, the angler may be adding in an unnecessary step/element to hooking that fish if they misuse the technique(timing, under/over setting drag, having to reset the drag). I’m just talking from my own experience, specifically when talking tidal water, the drag of a spinning reel assists an angler in “naturally” fighting and tiring out a fish to land… if that makes sense. Bait caster can be more “forceful” if you aren’t paying attention. In my opinion, I think the actual design of the spinning reel and its drag system cater more towards throwing that jerkbait (hardbait)
Good stuff Matt. I love the jerkbait. I saw Randy talk about that upward jerk in a video. It works! Got a nice 4 pounder in March that way. Also, jerking the bait 2-3 times then “swimming” the bait maybe 6” makes the bait looked injured but only able to swim off slowly. Another easy target.
Thanks for all the help! Now if I could spend as much time practicing kayak control as I do watching YT, I'd be set...1st season fishing Jerks and am quickly seeing the need for technique specific lengths as well as the action. Your St Croix seems to load up well during the cast. Is it M or ML, and F or MF?
Im going to do a build to catch video on this. But basically im using the SJ812 with the same components as this video. component list is in the video description.ua-cam.com/video/Ck1lxPhivTs/v-deo.html
Any suggestions on a weight set up to get my perch pattern Rappala out farther? Have had limited success using 2 split shots above a black barrel swivel with a 2.5 foot leader. I've only been bass fishing for 4 months in NE Washington so I know I'm doing unconventional retrieves because I don't know any better. A long cast and straight, medium speed retrieve with 3 jerks about every 15 feet seems to be working. Sometimes
Try using lighter line to cast further. it makes a big difference. if you add to much weight the jerkbait will sink and not suspend which is usually not ideal
Have You had issues with the Revo SX drag I have had two of them and they have both went out after about six months and not heavy use on the spinning reel if so how do I fix this without buying a new real
How are these for shallow ponds with lots of that slimy moss on the bottom? I have one I’ve tried a bit with no luck, but want to give it another shot.
I used to through the jerkbait on spinning. I throw it on a megabass p5 6'3 eliminator rod now that the reel makers have a nice variety of 70 sized reels that can handle 6lb line. My experience is I get way more bites on light line.
Awesome video! Thank you! I know you said this is a custom built rod, I see it says st croix in the video. Can you recommend me a rod similar to the setup you have here that I can purchase? Appreciate it.
@@MattStefanFishing would this rod also work well for throwing a single fluke rig? I’m looking to buy one rod that will work well with jerkbaits and throwing single flukes. Thanks for all your help.
Matt, Do you always tie on your leader line to whatever you are fishing - it seems like it when I look close to your video. When would you use a snap swivel so you can quickly change lures?
I will occasionally use a snap swivel for quick change and when using a crankbait. I generally dont with jerkbaits as i dont want to add any weight to them normally.
I like to, when I can, become a line watcher. If I see a jump, tighten etc, I know someone’s knocking on my door, or I jerked into a bush, which is always lovely
Here's a somewhat related question, how often do you replace the fluorocarbon on your jerkbait rod? Do you feel like all the jerking breaks the line down quicker?
Matt, was that a St. Croix blank you built up? I'm alway curious. I plan on buying the Mud Hole rod building kit and building some rods over the winter (starting with some ice fishing blanks in case of oopies) Great tips! I have not intentionally used an upward jerk, but I will throw that in from now on.
Perfect suspending jerkbait. HJ-6 is my preferred size, but sometimes HJ-8. Black and chrome. Always use 8lb line or less. I prefer 4 where I can get away with it but mostly use 6lb.
I have told people for years you can fish a Rapala all year most said I was wrong I even caught walleye late in the evening almost dark and they hit the Rapala. I mostly use the black and silver or firetiger I too use spinning gear unless iam going for musky because I use the 5/8 oz or larger my spinning rod will go to 5/8oz but I think the bait caster goes better!!!!!
Great video Matt! Wondering if you have ever fished Holcombe lake/flowage. I’m headed there late September and have always struggled. Any pointers? Also if you made a lake map break down for fall on holcombe lake in the next week or so I would gladly purchase that before I head down there👍
I have fished holcombe before and Id be able to get one done over labor day weekend for you. you can order one here if you like. fishthemoment.com/personal-lake-breakdown/fish-the-moment-personal-lake-breakdown-with-matt-stefan?rq=matt%20stefan
@@MattStefanFishing thanks for the reply! Is going up the river the best option to catch smallies or stay on the main lake? Appreciate all your content
I use a small suspending jerk bait as a fineness lure very light line light parabolic rod small reel .this has produced winning days when guys struggle to catch keepers
the blank I was using in the video is a St. Croix premier, which is the same as the st. croix premier 7 FT ML spinning rod. Here is the link. its the rod I used to use before I started building my own. www.tacklewarehouse.com/St_Croix_Premier_Spinning_Rods/descpage-SCPSR.html?from=MSFG
@MattStefanFishing Thanks, are you using those plastic hook covers? I've used the 3700 and Flambuas versions as well. It always ends up a mess due to over filling the box, I'm sure. But I've called down from the big glass boats to a tracker pro 170 and storage is an issue. Because I have a mental disorder that requires I take everything short the kitchen sink. 🤪 Even though I'll rig up 6 rods with different presentations and only actually use 2 or three once I figure out the fish.
All those and one more for you. Looking at the surface and weather, to fish a rapala as a top water is good to. After seeing a 2" shad on the surface just quivering, I worked on this one. I call it scrubbing the top. Rapala floats high, I cast it out, let the rings spread and I'll keep my line Simi slack and shake the tip from side to side maybe 6" causing it to quiver on the surface. Pull 6"-12" and repeat. The conditions need to be right and if they want it on top, it can be a killer. Try it out!
Sounds great! thanks for sharing with us!
I have gone that also and yes it works
I remember meeting a guy fishing in PA back in 88' I was 12 and was already a dead serious bass fisherman. He showed me that technique and it is effective but, as you said the conditions have to be just right.
@@adksport4023
I've shown plenty of people this trick, through it wasn't me. I was in Walter Reed much of "88".
This is my go to technique in the spring with the rapala floating minnow black and silver in color and I caught my pb this year that way. Threw it right after he blew up on top water then threw it in and popped it twice and she was hook d
One of the best tutorials I have seen on a retrieve method. Can't wait to put it to the test to see how good of a student I am. Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Ty great tips . Don’t let the negative crowd get you down . There watching because they don’t have faith in there abilities they are secretly loving the videos .
thanks!
I was in Northern, MI in early May this year and I saw a smallie following my jerkbait to the boat after working the jerkbait with slow pauses. The light bulb when off in my head and I did the fast retrieve you were talking about. Caught fish on the next 2 casts. I then proceeded to catch a total of 12 fish in one 40 yard spot for the next 30 mins. There were the only fish I caught that day but they were all over 3, with a few around 4 and one over 5. Retrieves can be everything. I saw first hand what you were talking about.
Nice!
Can’t wait until my next outing to try this. Thanks again!
Have fun!
It’s click bait. He’s a fisherman. It kinda makes sense.
haha
Finally someone that’s fishes like I do with this lure👍, So many videos explain different ways with this lure and they limit the action of it with rod action. You can work the rod in 20 different ways and get better action then 1 rod action technique. Great video for people needing good instruction 👍
Glad you enjoyed it
I think these videos are awesome
Most fishing videos just show lures and fishing them without explaining the retrieve
I don’t have alot of experience so this is helpful
Thanks 👍
I caught my first jerkbait fish this spring, and it's definitely a technique I could be addicted to. I look forward to trying these techniques
Great to hear!
Great tips as always. I love to use a 7ft med powered baitcasting rod
Right on
I really like these retrieve videos. Keep them coming
Will do!
I realize this video is a year old but I really did like this series of videos. I’ve always viewed them as a “Think Outside the box”. Many people get into that road stare when fishing any type of lure so it helps to have some tricks up your sleeve.
PS the Berkley Stunna is a Musky Killer!
Awesome!!
I fish a jearkbait a lot never even thought about popping it up every now and then on my retrieve so I will try that next time and the name of these videos does not bug me because I learn new retrieves that I never even thought off
thanks! good luck on the water!
No hate on other guys I listen to on a regular, but your stuff is the best lol
thanks so much!
Really good point with the occasional upward jerk in the cadence.
thanks!
Great title, I’m among those 90% looking for an improvement Keep it up and thx for adjusting the stats!
Happy to help!
I got to tell you. I am 63 years old. Just bought a couple of Jerkbait's. Never fish one in my life. Going to give them a try. Right after. I try the Berkley cullshad in 6 inch size. But, The Jerkbait is in the line up. Thanks for a great video on how to twitch the jerkbait. Shawn.
Good luck!
Respect for you Matt. You do you. I am sick to death of this mob of the "offended". They aren't sane.
haha!
If someone gets their shorts in a bind because of the titles you choose to use, it's because they believe they know more than you and aren't going to watch it no matter what. I've been around for 80 years, fished about 75 of them and have yet to scratch the surface on fishing techniques as everyone fishes different than you or I do and a wise old owl once chirped open the mind and close the mouth and you will undoubtedly learn something new. And by golly that old bird was correct. Keep the videos coming I enjoy them even if I know some of what you are describing. Cheerio and GO PAC!
Thanks for the support
I like the title! I totally get what you're saying and why you do it. And a lot of the time, it's certainly true.
I like to work a jerkbait with no pauses like KVD from post spawn up until fall. I've been on that bite all year and it's got me some really nice fish.
sounds great! Jerkbait has no wrong way of fishing it really
Great tip I use the jerkbait all year round. One of my favorite jerkbait retrieves is jerk, jerk, sweep, up jerk, jerk, pause, jerk, down jerk pause.
I think I got that. Thanks.
sounds like the cheat code for a video game haha
Sounds like the cheat code! Lol that's how you catch any fish in the game! Lol
AB ab left right left right ab start
I came
That 90% of Anglers doing it wrong is what caught my attention lol second video here. Going to do some binging on this channel 😁
btw, this is the first video I've seen (and I've watched a bunch) where exactly how you are jerking the bait is FULLY explained down to every detail. Fantastic!
Awesome
How does Matt only have 32k subscribers? I guess bc the channel is fairly new, but this information is top notch. It's just a matter of time until this channel takes off.
thanks for the support!
I am actually really offended that people are offended by your tittles! Lol. Since I found your channel I have learned so much, I never threw a senko now I’ve got a whole binder full and it’s been my go to work horse. Every day you give out quality information and produce great videos FOR FREE. Sure people can have opinions but when a professional angler devotes his time to help us weekend warriors how can you complain?
Imo lol
I do enjoy the videos of
You on the water it’s nice to see a pro in his element I feel you get a better since of what you’re trying to explain.
thanks for the support! I try to do as many on the water videos as possible.
I just started using a jerkbait a few weeks ago for smallmouth. I'm now addicted and I'm going to see if it will work on other lakes for largemouth. Thanks for the tips on how to fish it differently. I'll be trying these out very soon.
so much fun!
You didn't offend me with any of your description. Appreciate your wisdom. Lots of useful info👍
Thanks!
Right? And how do you not know it’s for the algorithm. Lol. The whole point of making a video is to get the views while we get the info and insight in return. Thanks Matt.
The several jerks and the snap up is exactly how I fish streamer flies and the like. A couple of quick side ways jerks of the rod and a snap up. Also how I fish spoons, spinners, many soft plastics and a lot of things. Pauses and upward fleeing motions are great triggers on most baits, lures and flies.
Good to know!
Always enjoy Matt’s videos truly are educational, I don’t 100% agree with his retrieve, or spinning gear but like anything do what you have confidence in and works for you. That being said his tip about the upward pop is 100% dead on, you ain’t doing it, you missing out
thanks for the support. This is just what works for me. there are no 100% right answers in bass fishing. confidence is king!
Jerkbaits are one of my favorite,I fish it very eradic.love the berkley stunna gonna get me a couple thx for the great tip again keep em coming
its a great jerkbait
Nice teaching for For beginners like me🎣🎣👏👏
Happy to help
I caught a 40" pike in northern Minnesota on a 5" gold Husky Jerk. Not knowing any better, I tossed it over the side as we slowly moved from one spot to another, just wanted to see its action in the water. As soon as we pulled up on our new spot the water exploded as the pike went airborne on the take, then it was game on. I think it was that final stop and the slow rise that triggered the massive strike. Beauty fish, hey.
very cool!
Have been waiting for this video since you started doing these retrieve videos.
Thank you for the the video on jerkbait retries, your one on crankbaits definitely help me increase my crankbait confidence and catch more fish on them. So I hope I can take what I learned from this video and do the same with jerkbait.
One quick question, is there a reason you prefer to use a spinning setup versus a baitcaster setup for jerkbaits?
Yep! I can cast further, get my bait running deeper, get better action out of the bait and find it to be easier on my body when fishing with it all day. I use mine on 6 lb test generally
@@MattStefanFishing thank you for the insight, will have to set one of my spinners up for jerkbaits and give it a try
That upward snap is key for my cadence. Bass can't resist it one bit
Agreed
Thanks Matt, loved this insight. Some great tips without the fluff. What i wanted to see.
Glad it was helpful!
I fished a tournament on Mark Twain lake early July. I dont have forward facing sonar. But still caught five 4 pounders. All on the Stunna.
Thats a good day of fishing!
Hei a German Guy Here N1 Video 👍 Like your way to explain
Thanks
I like the no-retrieve option.😂 I've caught two 3 lb largemouth recently that smashed my black/silver shadow rap 11 as soon as it hit the water. Granted, they were chasing shad at the time.
Thanks for watching
Glad to see someone throwing a jerk bait on spinning… I’ve needed help with the technique for a while, and I live in an extremely windy area where I’m often throwing jerk baits in 15+ mph winds. Hard to get distance for me with a bait caster in high wind and I always felt dumb throwing on spinning.
KVD throws his on spinning a lot .
i love jerkbaits on spinning gear
Don't feel bad throwing a spinning combo. I take three spinners and three BC's with me in my kayak. Most of the time I'm using spinning combo's because the finesse baits seem to work better where I fish. The have their time and place.
We’re getting rain down here in Texas as well. One of the lake I frequent has came up 8-9’ in the past 2 weeks. It added about 3500 acres of surface area.
HOLY SMOKES!
Another great video Matt. How do you determine when to use floating vs suspending vs slow sinking? Do you ever use suspendots to make a suspending jerkbait a slow sinker?
Slowest thinking is awesome if you are fishing at around cover and don’t have room to cast the bait a long ways and let it dive naturally. I love casting slow sinking jerkbaits into little pockets of docks and letting it sink before retrieving it
thats a great video topic! thanks for the suggestion!
I like the video titles I’m new to bass fishing and like you said the title helps me to know what the video will be about
awesome!
Neat. I include “upward” jerks when I use a fluke. I don’t really throw a jerk bait much, so this is a great reference video as I enlarge my technique repertoire. Thanks.
Right on
I like to tie a square bill that dives say 12-15 feet, and on a second rod I tie on a Suspending Jerk Bait that runs at 5-7 feet, and I can slow walk both profiles on the surface as wake baits. So, I am working every part of the water column from the surface to the depth of my diving lure, and everything in between with just 2 lures...
I have been surprised at the number of people that look at me strange when I fish jerkbaits in the summer. I've found the deeper diving suspending jerkbaits work great in the summer.
Its a great year round bait!
Rapala X-rap is the baddest boy on the block. Because it's neutrally buoyant, it can sit still. Just like a real fish. I like to think of it as a pause bait. It can cover a lot of water and stop on a dime. Once you have their attention with some of these sweet moves, just stop. You will torture those fish into biting just by being patient.
Thanks for the good pointers. Things I will try this spring.
i like the goby colored x-rap!
Thanks Matt! Your advise and content is, as always, awesome! Much appreciated!!!!
My pleasure!
One of my favorite baits and seeing that Table Rock is one of my home lakes we use jerkbaits all year round and your retrieves are right on for here in Missouri!!!
Awesome! thanks for sharing with us!
That's funny you speak about that upward jerk. I do that as well, and there are days I blister fish when buddies can't buy a bite with the same bait. I snap my wrist backwards as well, as it gives the bait a different action. I fish lefty, and it just really seems to work well for me. I fish a JB year round and have for some time. I don't t make a habit of telling folks on my home lake that I use a JB year round on open water, but it works and works well. I tend to have alot more accidental walleye than most guys using the jb year round too.
I also use a jb in shallow water with upward snaps the whole way fishing it like a fluke, and get bit well doing that. I think its different enough that fish aren't seeing it every time a boat goes by.
Nothing wrong with accidental walleye catches!
@@MattStefanFishing Right, I'm certainly not complaining about it. 😊
I’ve looked at your videos/entries you don’t have anything for High Rock Lake in North Carolina, and I am a kayak fisher so it’s a lot harder for me to get around as fast as you guys do With those bass boats.
Ive never fished High rock but would love to one day.
Con estos jerkybait he pescado bass , stripers, wait bass , and catfish buddy gracias por tus video muy bueno
Thanks for watching
I just started watching your videos! Awesome. I like short and to the point videos like yours !
Glad you like them!
Very nice. I make sure to mix in different variations of “jerks”.
And I love the rod.
Right on
I use my rapala like a top water . Slow run it just below the surface . Pause , let it float up . Twitch , twitch pause . It seems to work in Florida .
thats a killer retrieve for floaters!
Great series!!! Love the content!!! Helps improve my skills a little more!!! Stay Safe & God Bless!!!!
Glad to hear it!
Very interesting..... Just getting back into fishing & I used to just real in repeals & rebels pretty much straight in aside from speeding up & slowing down here & there. Well I caught a couple here / there but nothing to speak of , look forward to trying this thank you😊
give this a try!
@@MattStefanFishing 👍
Just had a ton of fun trying my first few casts this evening( mid augst) in our major river system. I had a massive stripper follow it to the shore and hammer it about 6 feet in front of me. My question is would using an oil or scent of some kind help to get them to commit?
Great video tho! Thanx for the solid info with no fluff!
I believe it can help
@@MattStefanFishing thanx! I'll load up with a few difernt scents front local sources like shad oil n such!
I have caught several long nose gar on a jerk bait. Those fish put up one heck of a fight.
Thank you for taking the time to make these videos to help us out in our fishing.
I always heard that them gar were bad eatin'. Then I went to a fish fry where gar was in the fryer. It was the first to disappear. It was delicious.
@@bloodybonescomic I have heard it both ways. Some say it’s the best fish to eat others say it’s absolutely disgusting.
The next time I catch one I am going to try it and see
It was once very common in fish markets here in Louisiana, or so they say. I've eaten it a few times and liked it. They say it's important to get them on ice asap. Gar often thrive in dirty contaminated waterways that other fish can't tolerate, and Ive noticed that basically every consumption advisory I've ever read listed gar as an affected species. IMPORTANT THAT YOU DO NOT EAT THE ROE! It is stupid poisonous and will make you sick as hell.
gar do like jerkbaits!
@@MattStefanFishing so far affect the position and mood of bass any? I’ve heard it both ways. If your seeing gar the bass ain’t there, and I’ve heard that bass don’t care if the gar are in the area.
ignore the haters that complain about the titles........They either don't have a youtube channel, or have one but it gets no views because they have boring titles that don't get views, or have channel and they do the same thing with the titles but are calling you out for it. Making titles like this is just something you have to do to be successful with a youtube channel.
Thanks for the support! I try to back the titles pup with helpful information!
As always, another great video! Thanks Matt!
Glad you enjoyed it!
CRIB REPORT: We have multiple bass and crappie on the sunken cypress trees. Seem to very active and curious! Super exciting stuff. Had a 3lb bass sizing up the camera. Seems like they have fully acclimated to new cover!
AWESOME! Was this day 5? im kinda surprised it took this long
@@MattStefanFishing yes day 5 however I didn't put the camera on them on day 4 so they may have been there before I caught them on camera.
Or just like changing up the cadences, you could change up the titles. Personally, I would be more attracted to a title that says something about suggestions for being successful. Positive instead of negative marketing.
thanks for sharing
Matt, as a newbie, just a quick question. is that lure weighted or on the surface.
Suspends
I like to tie a square bill that dives say 12-15 feet, and on a second rod I tie on a Suspending Jerk Bait that runs at 5-7 feet, and I can slow walk both profiles on the surface as wake baits. So, I am working every part of the water column from the surface to the depth of my diving lure, and everything in between with just 2 lures...
sounds good!
Thanks for the tips! What model rod is that that you’re using?
this is a St. Croix Premier 6'6" ML spinning rod blank that i custom built
Whats your line setup? How long is the FC leader? Especially for Summer Smallies.
i fish 6lb fluorocarbon...no leader just all fluorocarbon
Another short, yet informative video Matt, nice work. I have been really enjoying and picking up on the knowledge you have been dropping. One of my favorite things to do while watching your videos is seeing how I can take your knowledge and apply it to my region of fishing (live in Virginia/primary body of water is the Potomac) specifically.
Great points made on using spinning tackle for jerkbaits (hard bait). I will use a bait caster when throwing a soft plastic jerkbait during scenarios where I want accuracy and feel. But, I’ve pulled hooks way too many times on fish with those sharp/thin treble hooks (as you mentioned in the video) to have confidence to throw it. I see people set hooks and then tighten their drags but I’ve found that to be inefficient. Not to say it’s a technique that shouldn’t be leveraged (there’s always scenarios, that’s why we love bass fishing). But if you think about it, the angler may be adding in an unnecessary step/element to hooking that fish if they misuse the technique(timing, under/over setting drag, having to reset the drag). I’m just talking from my own experience, specifically when talking tidal water, the drag of a spinning reel assists an angler in “naturally” fighting and tiring out a fish to land… if that makes sense. Bait caster can be more “forceful” if you aren’t paying attention.
In my opinion, I think the actual design of the spinning reel and its drag system cater more towards throwing that jerkbait (hardbait)
I agree completely thanks for sharing!
Good stuff Matt. I love the jerkbait. I saw Randy talk about that upward jerk in a video. It works! Got a nice 4 pounder in March that way. Also, jerking the bait 2-3 times then “swimming” the bait maybe 6” makes the bait looked injured but only able to swim off slowly. Another easy target.
it works really well
I wish I could put down the plastic worm and try other baits. But I just can't do it.🙂 Thanks for the video!
Stick with what works for you!
Thanks for all the help! Now if I could spend as much time practicing kayak control as I do watching YT, I'd be set...1st season fishing Jerks and am quickly seeing the need for technique specific lengths as well as the action. Your St Croix seems to load up well during the cast. Is it M or ML, and F or MF?
You can do it!
A great bait for trolling in summer.
it sure can be
Thank ya Matt! These vids are helping alot! ☝️
Thanks for the positive feedback!
Hey Matt good stuff bud thanks for the great info and God bless.
You bet
Matt, I also build my rods using Mud Hole components. What setup (components) would you recommend from Mud Hole to fish this style ?
Im going to do a build to catch video on this. But basically im using the SJ812 with the same components as this video. component list is in the video description.ua-cam.com/video/Ck1lxPhivTs/v-deo.html
I 100 % look forward to your 90% retrieve series videos. Does a bait caster make any difference for you?
nope you can use one but i prefer spinning with jerkbaits.
Good information on your video I agree with everything the only thing I do differently is I use a baitcaster and good fishing
Stick with what works for you!
Any suggestions on a weight set up to get my perch pattern Rappala out farther? Have had limited success using 2 split shots above a black barrel swivel with a 2.5 foot leader. I've only been bass fishing for 4 months in NE Washington so I know I'm doing unconventional retrieves because I don't know any better. A long cast and straight, medium speed retrieve with 3 jerks about every 15 feet seems to be working. Sometimes
Try using lighter line to cast further. it makes a big difference. if you add to much weight the jerkbait will sink and not suspend which is usually not ideal
Have You had issues with the Revo SX drag I have had two of them and they have both went out after about six months and not heavy use on the spinning reel if so how do I fix this without buying a new real
I havent had any issues
How are these for shallow ponds with lots of that slimy moss on the bottom? I have one I’ve tried a bit with no luck, but want to give it another shot.
great!
@@MattStefanFishing Cool thanks! I’ll give it a try again soon.
What kind and size of line do you use on a spinning reel for jerkbaits?
I prefer 6 lb 100% Berkley trilene fluorocarbon
I used to through the jerkbait on spinning. I throw it on a megabass p5 6'3 eliminator rod now that the reel makers have a nice variety of 70 sized reels that can handle 6lb line. My experience is I get way more bites on light line.
agreed
I caught my PB smallie on a jerkbait after poping it up. It works for sure
nice!
Awesome video! Thank you! I know you said this is a custom built rod, I see it says st croix in the video. Can you recommend me a rod similar to the setup you have here that I can purchase? Appreciate it.
its a st croix blank that you can buy in the stores as a st croix premier 6"6" ML spinning rod.
@@MattStefanFishing thank you!
@@MattStefanFishing would this rod also work well for throwing a single fluke rig? I’m looking to buy one rod that will work well with jerkbaits and throwing single flukes. Thanks for all your help.
Matt, Do you always tie on your leader line to whatever you are fishing - it seems like it when I look close to your video. When would you use a snap swivel so you can quickly change lures?
I will occasionally use a snap swivel for quick change and when using a crankbait. I generally dont with jerkbaits as i dont want to add any weight to them normally.
Thanks for all the information and you know what, don't change a thing:)
Thank you!
lovin this series!! 👍
Thanks so much!
I don't know how, thats why I'm here!
Awesome
Great tips...Thanks!!
You bet!
I like to, when I can, become a line watcher. If I see a jump, tighten etc, I know someone’s knocking on my door, or I jerked into a bush, which is always lovely
watching the line is key
Thanks Matt for another great lesson on jerkbaits. Keep up the great work.
Thank you!
Here's a somewhat related question, how often do you replace the fluorocarbon on your jerkbait rod? Do you feel like all the jerking breaks the line down quicker?
i replace it faster thats for sure
Matt, was that a St. Croix blank you built up? I'm alway curious. I plan on buying the Mud Hole rod building kit and building some rods over the winter (starting with some ice fishing blanks in case of oopies) Great tips! I have not intentionally used an upward jerk, but I will throw that in from now on.
That was a st. croix premier 6'6" rod blank. I also build the MHX SJ-812 for jerkbaits. very similar blanks
I'm Husky Jerkin' till the day I die. Rapala has done me very well.
Perfect suspending jerkbait. HJ-6 is my preferred size, but sometimes HJ-8. Black and chrome. Always use 8lb line or less. I prefer 4 where I can get away with it but mostly use 6lb.
Husky jerk has caught me a ton of fish!
Like your Murray State t shirt!
THanks!
How do you keep the line from blowing up on spinning
Don’t over fill the spool
I have told people for years you can fish a Rapala all year most said I was wrong I even caught walleye late in the evening almost dark and they hit the Rapala. I mostly use the black and silver or firetiger I too use
spinning gear unless iam going for musky because I use the 5/8 oz or larger my spinning rod will go to 5/8oz but I think the bait caster goes better!!!!!
yep its a great bait!
Unless I missed it. Is that a floating or saspending jurk bait. ???
suspending
@@MattStefanFishing Thanks GOD bless. Have a blessed fishing year. 😂
Matt, what action rod do you use? Moderate or Fast? THX.
moderate
Great video Matt! Wondering if you have ever fished Holcombe lake/flowage. I’m headed there late September and have always struggled. Any pointers? Also if you made a lake map break down for fall on holcombe lake in the next week or so I would gladly purchase that before I head down there👍
I have fished holcombe before and Id be able to get one done over labor day weekend for you. you can order one here if you like. fishthemoment.com/personal-lake-breakdown/fish-the-moment-personal-lake-breakdown-with-matt-stefan?rq=matt%20stefan
@@MattStefanFishing thanks for the reply! Is going up the river the best option to catch smallies or stay on the main lake? Appreciate all your content
I use a small suspending jerk bait as a fineness lure very light line light parabolic rod small reel .this has produced winning days when guys struggle to catch keepers
awesome! thanks for sharing with us!
I’m looking to buy a good spinning rod for my finesse jerkbaits…What brand and specs would you recommend other than the ones you build?
the blank I was using in the video is a St. Croix premier, which is the same as the st. croix premier 7 FT ML spinning rod. Here is the link. its the rod I used to use before I started building my own. www.tacklewarehouse.com/St_Croix_Premier_Spinning_Rods/descpage-SCPSR.html?from=MSFG
@@MattStefanFishing thank you so much Matt! Your awesome man
I've been doing this for years, but I have yet to figure out a good storage solution, any suggestions?
I just use Plano 3700
@MattStefanFishing Thanks, are you using those plastic hook covers? I've used the 3700 and Flambuas versions as well. It always ends up a mess due to over filling the box, I'm sure. But I've called down from the big glass boats to a tracker pro 170 and storage is an issue. Because I have a mental disorder that requires I take everything short the kitchen sink. 🤪 Even though I'll rig up 6 rods with different presentations and only actually use 2 or three once I figure out the fish.