The Basics of Fishing Soft Jerkbaits

Soft jerkbaits are among the most versatile lures in bass fishing. Designed to mimic baitfish with a natural darting and gliding action, these soft plastic lures are deadly in both clear and stained waters. Whether you’re fishing them floating over shallow grass or rigging them on a weighted hook to probe deeper water, soft jerkbaits excel at triggering reaction bites from both active and finicky bass.

Best Time of Year and Water Temperature for Soft Jerkbaits

Soft jerkbaits shine throughout much of the year, but they excel during times when bass are actively feeding on baitfish. Since their darting, dying-minnow action perfectly imitates shad, alewives, or other forage, timing and water conditions make a huge difference.

Key Takeaway:

• Spring & Fall – fish more erratically to mimic baitfish being chased.
• Summer – fish them fast near grass edges or shade.
• Winter – slow way down, using subtle hops and glides.

Best Rod, Reel, and Line Setup for Soft Jerkbaits

The right setup can make all the difference when working a soft jerkbait. Both spinning and baitcasting gear can be used depending on the situation.

Spinning Setup

• Rod: 6’6” – 7’0” Medium Power, Fast Action
  • Light enough to work the bait with subtle twitches but strong enough for solid hooksets.
• Reel: 2500–3000 size spinning reel with smooth drag
  • Great for casting floating jerkbaits long distances.
• Line: 10-15 lb Fluorocarbon or 15–30 lb Braid with 10-15lb Fluoro leader

Baitcasting Setup

• Rod: 6’8” – 7’2” Medium-Heavy Power, Fast Action
  • Provides more power for heavy cover, docks, and grass lines.
• Reel: 6.4:1 – 7.1:1 gear ratio baitcaster
  • Faster reel helps take up slack quickly after twitches.
• Line: 12–17 lb Fluorocarbon or 20–50 lb Braid with Fluoro leader

Key Tip:

• Use spinning gear for finesse presentations (clear water, open cover).
• Use baitcasting gear for power fishing (heavy cover, faster retrieves).

Techniques for Fishing Soft Jerkbaits

1. Twitch–Pause Method

   • Cast, let the bait sink slightly, then give short rod twitches. The bait darts side-to-side like an injured minnow. Pause between twitches to let bass commit.

2. Burn and Kill

   • Reel fast with erratic twitches, then stop suddenly. This imitates a fleeing shad that suddenly dies.

3. Dead-Sticking

   • Cast near cover and let the bait sit. Small twitches barely move it, enticing lethargic bass.

4. Skip Under Cover

   • Skip a floating jerkbait under docks, trees, or pads where bass ambush prey.

5. Schooling Fish Double Rig

   • Use the double fluke rig in open water when bass are chasing shad schools in the fall.

Chart of Common Brand Name Soft Jerkbaits and Their Sizes