Fall Jerkbait Fishing: Everything You Need To Know

Underwater footage shows us which jerkbaits look the best but can you replicate it on your own? Today Matt teaches when to use each style of jerkbait, which colors to try, and some tricks to get the best action out of the baits. If you're ready to catch bass this Fall on a jerkbait, this video will help you do it!
Fall is prime time for a jerkbait. Bass are aggressively targeting baitfish and will continue to do so into the Winter. While some lures may fade away as the water cools the jerkbait will continue to work throughout the Winter months. The key is understanding the cadences for cool water as well as which baits will give the best action.
TacticalBassin keeps it simple with 5 jerkbaits that offer consistent actions at a variety of depths. To further simplify it, they focus on 3 color profiles to meet every circumstance. Make sure you stick around for the tips about replacement hooks and the line trick to get the best action out of every jerkbait! It doesn't take boxes of lures to catch a jerkbait fish, you can do it!
Below is a breakdown of the baits and equipment discussed in the video. Below each bait you'll find color recommendations that meet each of the 3 color profiles that work nationwide.
The baits...
-Lucky Craft Pointer 100 H3: bit.ly/2PuaFpw
(Ghost Minnow, Aurora Black, Chartreuse Shad)
-Lucky Craft Flash Pointer SP (100 and 115): bit.ly/2aHz588
(Ghost Minnow, Chartreuse Shad, Crystal Pro Blue, American Shad)
-Jackall Rerange 110: bit.ly/2ge0qED
(Blue Pearl Shad, Silver Shad, Matte Pearl White)
-Megabass Vision 110:
(French Pearl, GP Pro Blue, M Shad, Wakin React)
-Megabass Vision 110+1: bit.ly/2iGYOCX
(Pm Twilight Chart Back, GP Pro Blue 2, Deadly Black Shad, French Pearl)
Hooks, Split Rings, and Line...
Rings- Owner Hyperwire Size 2: bit.ly/2v8ArBX
Hooks- Gamakatsu Finesse Nano Treble (Size 4,5, and 6): bit.ly/2dWWAut
Line- Sunline Assassin Fluorocarbon (10-12 lb): bit.ly/2h4LNjm
Jerkbait Rods From High-End To Budget Friendly...
-St. Croix Legend X 6'8" Medium XFast: bit.ly/2r3Wskp
-Megabass Destroyer Oneten Special: bit.ly/2wVOSbY
-Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium: bit.ly/2nTq9FL
-St. Croix Bass X 6'8" Medium XFast: bit.ly/2r0xWAs
Jerkbait Reels...
Favorite Reel- Shimano Aldebaran MGL 50 HG: bit.ly/2uQ4oH8
Mid Range- Shimano Curado DC 150 HG: bit.ly/2yHtsp4
Budget Option - Shimano SLX 150 HG: bit.ly/2NfdOnk
Underwater Jerkbait Video: • Underwater Jerkbait Fo...
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What we wear...
Sun Mask: bit.ly/2JcA8xi
Sun Shirt w/ Hood: bit.ly/2vgTOst
Light Fishing Pants: bit.ly/2foDx10
Reaper Hoodie (Hoodie with Warm Face Cover built in): bit.ly/2yRURSd
Horizon Sweater (Water resistant, great for layering): bit.ly/2gTC1oB
_________________________________________________________________
Equipment We Recommend...
Minn Kota Ultrex Trolling Motor: bit.ly/2vFQypW
Humminbird Solix 15 Electronics: bit.ly/2Hazsej
Minn Kota Talons: bit.ly/2F0QBSP
Hot Foot Throttle Control: bit.ly/2ob4kgO
Loc-R-Bar Boat Security: bit.ly/2CMF1NP
Favorite Storage Box: bit.ly/2fvjcFB
Favorite Pliers: bit.ly/2tfxFvw
Favorite Split Ring Pliers: bit.ly/2fT4Qw0
Favorite Wire Cutters: bit.ly/2soB34k
Favorite life jacket: bit.ly/2odXXIP
Favorite sunglasses: bit.ly/2glE3eN
Hero7 Camera: bit.ly/2RsLpjB
ElectroSamson Scale: bit.ly/2f7QgQ9
Frabill Net: bit.ly/2FNdnQr
Lure Retriever: bit.ly/2TLTJc6
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If you plan to do any shopping, using our links before doing your shopping at Tackle Warehouse is the single greatest way to support us! You won't be able to even see a difference but they'll know you're one of us!

[@_Mr.Giraffe]

The amount of knowledge you guys have is unfathomable. I love when you guys use data, like that a bass can spit a jerk bait in 0.17 seconds. I’d wager that you guys are one of, if not the most comprehensive and informative resource to bass fishing in the planet. You guys are the reason why my 2019 fishing season has been so much more productive than my 2018. Thanks Matt and Tim, you guys rock!

[@bassjunkie4881]

If that ain't the truth I'm on the same page as you

[@NguyeningOutdoors]

Tactical is amazing, if you want another channel that is on par and supports his info with data, check out Fish The Moment channel. Trust, you won’t be disappointed

[@TGossOutdoors]

100% dude the most underrated fishing KZbin channel on the entire platform.

[@tonyreed1727]

I'm definitely a visual learner so when y'all do videos like this where you actually show the rod retrieve it really helps..a lot of people might know what you're talking about when you say certain things like snap the rod or hapa jig or something like that but seeing it being done makes all the difference for me thank you

[@zekereed5990]

I'm with tony... these videos kill the unknown...

[@Luceium01]

Zeke Reed I got the plus one and these guys are so damn informative. Love it.

[@drakeaamold9758]

God bless

[@zidanethalib]

God bless Tactical bassing. U said it Toni.

[@MattyWongFishing]

You guys make most other fishing "youtubers" seem like complete noobs. Just like what Paul Cook said, I've been watching your videos for over 4 years now and I can agree... my productivity has gone up %100 by your tips and knowledge. Keep it up, you guys kill it!

[@NguyeningOutdoors]

Thank you on the retrieve lesson! That was gold. Especially the snap and half turn at the same time.

[@dong8307]

Such great information. Thanks guys!

[@jimroyce9159]

One of your best videos! Excellent! Thank you

[@BrettHalverson]

The bait selection/description in conjunction with the video showing how to work the lure is absolutely perfect. Thank you for everything you do for people looking to learn more about fishing.

[@matpleadwell2901]

Hey thank you guys as always for your help putting fish in the boat. I like this style of video. Both showing us the baits and how you fish them. It helps putting it all together.

[@jimmckenzie5453]

This may be the best informative fishing lesson ever for jerk bait fishing. So comprehensive, brilliant. Thanks for sharing so much.

[@southoutmcknight3263]

You guys are tackle masters. Great teachers. Enjoyed this video.

[@mmllgg2471]

You guys are awesome! I can't get enough!

[@patrickbrooks5093]

It blows my mind everytime I watch a video that y’all don’t have millions of subs. Your knowledge on fishing, the effort put into these videos and the effort into linking everything in the description. Y’all are hands down one of my favorite fishing channels. Keep doing what y’all are doing. I love fishing but have never had anyone teach me. Now I can pass my knowledge gained from y’all and experience to my future kids. Will always be a supporter

[@kenmccarthyfishing]

WOW WOW,it blows me away how much work this team puts into making a video,thank you so much for you time and Incredible information, God bless 👊👊🍻🍺

[@zekereed5990]

Again....time after time, learnin....thanks guys. Tight lines.

[@tonybass5662]

Great breakdown, nice work. Thank you!

[@shaunmoore1230]

My favorite fall video👍

[@davevjordon]

Really good video. Very informative. Thank you for the explanations.

[@romesds1722]

Thank you for all the tips. Big knowledge bombs 🤯

[@r.barefoot8386]

Those finesse trebles are no joke! I switched out my hooks last winter after seeing one of your videos. My hookup to land ratio improved significantly! I had already switched up my rod due to one of your previous videos. Jerkbaits is now my go to from late fall to early spring along with jigs.

[@underdogbaits]

Thanks Matt!!!! This has been so helpful!!!!

[@jesseboyden3119]

You guys have taught 2 generations of my family how to fish. I learned from u guys. Caught some trophy's. And passed u on to my lil bro. Thank u guys!

[@FishingWithFred]

Always great content always great knowledge. Ive became the angler I am today through most of these informative perspective videos. Especially Being from the west. It has really help me with a "starting point" the idea. Once you jump in, its endless. Much love hope you all are doing well up there with these fires.

[@BravoBassin]

Such great information always Matt keep up the great videos man always watch and learn something new!

[@emilianobanzi9432]

I'll never get tired seeing that video over and over ..

[@joshsilvers2037]

Awesome video as always Matt! One thing that I do to help with line memory, if my rods sit for a couple weeks, I tie off to something in the yard (limb, rail, etc) and get about 25-30 yards away and just put some pressure on it for a few minutes. Not too much pressure on Flouro...just enough to feel it. Once you release tension on it you will be able to see your line and if it’s ready to reel up. mono will stretch out obviously, but will lose any memory it has. Thanks for the great videos 🤘🏼

[@greggt.3784]

Wanted to say thank you for the equipment emphasis, I haven't fished hard jerkbaits very often but after your video I caught two in about 20 minutes on my home lake. That said it wore me out on a medium 7'2" spinning rod. After 30 cases or so. Ordered a very light ( 4 oz kastking 6-10 speed demon) 6-10 medium rod and it definitely makes a difference in how long I will be able to stick with that tech. I have learned a ton from you all. Thank you.

[@bcast9182]

Killed it on the ca delta ripping the mega bass Kanata for bass and striper these guys know there stuff keep up the good work I know I learn a lot from you guys thank you

[@Bluezkat1]

Awesome vid bro! Good pointers, no pun. Love the teaching vids, you guys got a lot of knowledge. Keep it up!

[@drakeaamold9758]

God bless

[@bdaquatics7584]

Jerkbaits are a year round bait on the Guadalupe. The Rapala shadow has really impressed me as well. You're breakdown of the importance of sharp hooks really blew my mind Matt. Stellar video as usual. I'm ALWAYS learning something here.

[@acnjshink]

Always learning from y'all content thanks for the information

[@smoovefishing]

My favorite is the rerange!! Line conditioner is a must with Floro, I put it on when I get back from fishing and while fishing and when we are done for the day I put it on again, I use it faithfully!

[@zubjr]

Great video. I would add- Evergreen faith in both dimensions is a must have.

[@GeorgiaBassmaster]

Awesome video guys! I love a large jerkbait or fluke in the fall.

[@Anna_cat299]

Thanks a lot for what you're doing! Your work is realy amazing and usefull. For me Megabass and Jackall jerkbaits brought this spring season 90% of caught fish! (Thanks to your videos) Now autumn season has started!

[@JasonJebezSam]

This video just helped me understand jerkbaits so much better! Thanks! I can't wait to get out there and try slowing down a bit for these Montana cold waters ha

[@sherrywilliams808]

Great tips

[@badfishingbissanschlagdril3637]

Nice baits🎣👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@codyphillips977]

MATT!! Awesome video brother. One thing I wanted to mention since I fish a lot of cold water. Around 45 degree water temp most of your “suspending” jerkbaits start to slow rise!! a guy will waste a lot of time fishing a slow rising jerkbait in 45 degree or below water if he doesn’t know!!

[@Mr.JonaVelazquez]

Thanks for the teach that Matt,an for he time you take to put all things in the description of the video

[@victorsimonsen921]

lots of birds flying around out there. great vid thanks for the info

[@jasondetreich8331]

Best channel I’m subscribed to hands down . The others don’t even come close to you guys 👊🏼🔥🎣🎣🎣

[@Tbowie13]

I am a stickler about my line for reasons like you showed. I keep newish line on and condition with reel magic very often! BTW, I took your advice and got a Orochi xx Jerkbait special and an Aldeberan. I haven't been this excited for a new setup in quite awhile. I got a Tequila Baccarac and Black Jack Destroyers for glidebait and swimbaits this summer, and quickly became a Megabass rod fan.

[@brookvanmuijen4368]

Something else i thought to add along this subject. Any Megabass 110, +1 or +2 in the "matte shad" color is actually a slow float - i believe the way they create their matte colors treats the surface of the plastic and removes material - it is consistent throughout my other megabass products as i used a scale to confirm they weigh significantly less - slap Gammy EWG #6's on those baits (which are a little heavier than katsuage) and they perfectly suspend - great video!

[@davidbaker9271]

awesome video brother love all your content always learn so much you should be some kind of fish professor

[@deangruwell6555]

My all time favorite fishing style- I’ve a suitcase of megabass @ jackal rerange - no other baits matter 😉

[@larryvilla6869]

Try a flash pointer in ghost color and you may change your mind

[@garylee1544]

Just for the Record, For those of you who Don't know 0.17 seconds is 170 milliseconds (mSec). Great Video!!

[@simplemanfishingvideos1395]

Great tutorial. I plan to make a video incorporating your techniques!

[@pj3p488]

Two days ago I had 83 degree water at 5 am and 87 at 10 am. Cooler water haha. Great video, again.

[@stevenvalenti3722]

I really like the rapala X-Rap and the rapala shad rap. For the price they are really great and they catch fish. Good video Matt 🙂

[@grandfishing590]

X-raps don’t work in water that is in the 30 degree or very low 40 degree range. They float right up to the surface making them useless.

[@markloedding8238]

I like those for the different sizes they come in too, plus the Husky Jerks.

[@stevenvalenti3722]

I didn't know that. But when the water gets that cold I don't even fish for bass anymore. I start crappie fishing. 🙂

[@Jbuckwild24]

Picked up an Orochi Jerbkbait Special and ready to go to town on these fish. Was looking for a fresh bait to get into and thinking that H3 is pretty delicious looking.

[@salmonkiller1000]

Great video as always! Would you guys ever fish some lakes in Washington and video it?

[@fishinthelake1950]

I used to never throw jerk baits but then I watched this video because I wanted to learn how to use jerk baits. So I picked up a mega bass 110 and I just got done fishing. 10 bass between 2.5lbs and 4lbs within an hour. Thanks for the help

[@terryclowers4433]

Like the in-depth description all someone has to do is watch your videos your tops in teaching

[@zachshott7833]

Awe yeah!!!

[@richricci3172]

GREAT VIDEO AS ALWAYS, FULL OF EDUCATIONAL TIPS, ... My question is ,.if you had to choose one budget friendly combo, what would it be, do you mind sharing a link of what your choice is.Thanx guys, tight lines

[@Strat642001]

Thank you guys so much for all of the knowledge you have presented in these videos. I took many of you suggestions and tried them this summer, and did really well. I did have 1 question. What are your opinions on Rapala? You dont seem to mention their lures much, if at all. I had always heard that most of the pros have Shad Raps in their boats, and fish them, even if they're not sponsered by Rapala. Thank you and tight lines.

[@rafabonati7757]

I like that you noticed the white pelican flocks. Plus good demo of jerk bait technique.

[@jamesspurlock5136]

You guys do amazing breakdowns. Do you have any experience with the Sebile Puncher Jerkbait, or the 6th sense pravoke?

[@chrisputh2644]

Great video! Just curious if you change speed if targeting smallmouth as opposed to largemouth? And water clarity is that a factor?

[@jerimiboone2396]

Do you guys plan on striper fishing this year ? More tips and tricks would be awesome

[@nawinchester]

Great video. What colors do you prefer when the water temps get sub 55 degrees or does color matter then? I was fishing a LC Staysee 90 in clown without a ton of success and wonder if the bold colors are simply too much for the fish this time of year, ie I fish primarily smallmouth waters.

[@ised8uwell]

EXCELLENT information as per usual. Respectfully, however, the rod list is absent of the new IMX PRO JBR. That thing is fantastic and worth a look if you haven't used one

[@jpneves8006]

Great stuff. Regarding the rod, is the Loomis IMX-Pro 812 comparable to the 6'10 Expride in value for money? I'm living in Europe and that specific Expride is nigh on impossible to find. Buying it from a shop back in the States isn't an option because of import duties, but the Loomis is surprisingly common around here. Thanks!

[@thehuntertyranni7497]

I fish the James River in southern Missouri from the bank... would you have any tips on gear and tackle to help improve my catches?

[@nicobotello8080]

Great video guys, you answered my line selection questions but I may not have gotten my other question answered... what gear ratio would be best on jerk baits I want to set up a combo for this application

[@aqualung1466]

Also wondering which gear ratio is best.

[@salvatoredemasi956]

Sweet

[@heavymetallures]

Great Stuff Guys... What are your 3 favorite Jerkbaits for Smallies on the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest?

[@grunion721]

Long time listener first time caller!!! This is for you guys using the H3. How do you keep the front hook from fouling in the line!?!?!?

[@shtty17]

These baits are no joke when you are around loads of active fish. Those nano trebles are ALSO NO JOKE either. Nice and slick, you won't realize how deep you buried it into your finger 😃I'm still a little gun shy, but you can't not throw a jerk when they are on it. Awesome tips, this topic is always a favorite of mine because out of all of the techniques Tactical has gotten me to gain confidence in, jerkbaiting has by far been the most rewarding and fun to develop.

[@michaelwright6720]

Matt what about the knot to the bait clinch or loop knot?

[@ambconstrucao3770]

Thank you for all the tips. Can these be used on salt water as well?

[@stpbasss3773]

Got my first jerkbait bass today from watching this video. I've been trying for 3 trips now to catch something on a jerk but after watching your video I realized I was doing it all wrong, I wasn't pausing at all in my retrieve. I dont know the exact color name but I caught it on a rapala husky jerk the silver one with a blue top.

[@LatvianPagan999]

Hey! Nice video, mate! Do you know any 74 - 76 long BC rods for 110-140mm jerkbaits?

[@robertdtimmerman6507]

After sticking both my pointer finger and thumb with a jerk bait, I have avoided using a jerk bait. This video is what I needed to tie another one on and try it again.

[@matthewheld8577]

Some I’m studying up on fall bass for fishing and I find your videos and fishing knowledge exceptional. I do however want you too clarify fluorocarbon line memory and how long we should consider replacing. I know you were specific to jerk bait fishing, but now what about other techniques? Lastly, Based on line spool time; would like to know your thoughts on shelf life dating fishing line? Not only on a personal purchase standard, but at a retail level. Some of these lines are made oversees and between landing on our shores and retail shelving they might already be 4-6. Months old before ending up on a reel..

[@EasyModeFishing]

Here in Texas the water can get so hot that the fish sit on the bottom in the summer too. They can get really skinny because of their metabolism. Sometimes they just can’t eat enough to keep up with the high metabolism.

[@cobbs]

Would really love some info on which size hook to use on which jerkbait. Matt? Tim? Anyone?

[@mattslife3696]

Is the megabass flat side special too soft I mean I’ve caught plenty of fish on with the jerkbait

[@wingort9]

With the Expride and Aldebaran paired upper jerk bait fishing, what other techniques are suited to this combo ? Thanks for your input . You guys are awesome.

[@tacticalbassin]

It's an amazing light weight combo for shaky heads, light texas rigs, topwater, any smaller reaction baits, smaller paddle tail swimbaits, Etc.

[@MySpinner]

Matt or tim does it change the action on the vision 110/plus 1 if you change the hooks?

[@geraldsaved]

What do you recommend for FL weather? Like for lake Oakeechobee?

[@johnnyarial7778]

Consider myself pretty good with a jerkbait. I always adjust them to suspend or a real slow sink. I would love to see a video testing slow rise, slow sink and suspending. That's how you buy them and I'm thinking they all have their place

[@jimmin9802]

How about the line sprays to help w memory? Or do u have to have new line?

[@fishingva9946]

I carry around sodering wire and wrap it around the hook to keep them suspended no matter the water temp or hooks

[@fishdisc7022]

Would that old line be bad to use for crank-baits? Could you put new line on a reel, for jerkbait rod, and move the old reel, with line, to a crank-bait rod?

[@zebur4170]

Megabass is always #1 for any hard bait

[@DienekesShade]

Until one buys Duo's lure ;)

[@zebur4170]

Listen I appreciate Duo, and I love Jackal as well. But if we're being completely honest I don't think there's ever been a luer that I've tried from megabass that I've been disappointed in. They have hands down the best popper on the market, the best spook on the market, the cicada that they make in unreal and no one ever talks about it. Their jerkbaits are out of this world, they're fat bodied squarebill crankbaits are ridiculous. The screw head swim bait heads look amazing and I still haven't gotten to try one. Their rods are only second to Loomis. I just don't know what more we could ask from this company

[@dant8213]

What's your thoughts on the outbarb hooks on the megabass? I cant see how that is going to help keep fish pegged on the hook and really dont see the purpose...maybe I'm missing something

[@dant8213]

@@venzo1228 that's cool, you mean hookup ratio or hook to land ratio? I can see getting hooked up with them easy cause they are dangerously sharp, but it seems like after that it's almost as bad as using a barbless hook

[@drudow]

Great video. I think I still like braid to Flouro leader for this technique, mainly because of the point made about line memory. A fresh leader is just a tie away, and I can go with a fast action rather than an extra fast action, which I like for keeping those fish pinned. I will say that I do experience bent out hooks that have cost me but I don't know if that would be any different going with an extra fast rod. Great points to think about. Again, great video. I love jerkbait fishing.

[@AmeriFanPicker]

drudow I am definitely a braid to leader guy but wasnt sure about that for jerkbait. I've a long way to go to mastering jerk bait fishing. But I do know I don't think I can EVER go back to a baitcaster full of pure mono or flouro.

[@fishingva9946]

@@AmeriFanPicker i do braid to leader but with a very long leader. I dont like to have any braid out when im using the jerk bait but im not going to spool my entire line with floro

[@adamsapple1982]

@@fishingva9946 Yup spot on imo. Braid to a longer fluoro leader for jerks. Get the best of both worlds; some line stretch for keeping fish pinned but keep the crispness of the jerks. Especially helpful for those of us with a limited number of rods doing double duty. Great vid as always 👍

[@yosemitesam1499]

What length leader to you use?

[@adamsapple1982]

@@yosemitesam1499 Typically about ~10 yds. I fish an FG knot and don't mind my junction knot passing the guides and being out with the fluoro. Also it depends on the jerkbait and how deep in the water column I want it. More fluoro for a retrieve that gets your jerkbait a few feet lower in the water column, a little less fluoro if you're fishing a shallow jerkbait up higher.

[@michaelsousa-johnson3794]

How do you guys feel about a Dobyns 703c for a jerkbait rod?

[@fishingva2167]

What water temp would you start looking for when looking for the fall bite starting?

[@aqualung1466]

Great video Matt. So let's say I have a 110, 110+1 and 110+2. I'm moving in between shallows and deeper water throughout the day, how do you switch in between these quickly? Re-tie all day? Would it be OK to use a very light snap like a small spro split-snap?

[@aqualung1466]

@@PunchFishing Do you remove the split ring?

[@aqualung1466]

What size G Finesse nanos are recommended for 110+1 and 110+2??

[@lewisspeed3041]

What type of jerk bait can I throw at a dam spillway with heavy current,what color?and would a fluke work in that situation as well

[@tfrthomasfamilyracing3662]

What water depths are you fishing these at? I understand that the baits are running in the 3 to 6 or 6 to 10 like you said but with those bait depths what water depths are you fishing?

[@bryceweaver01]

Matt, what rod are you using in this video? Orochi?

[@GettingFished]

As an alternative to changing out fluorocarbon often, is using braid to a leader a good option to maintain a good action? Also i budget jerkbait video would be good, good jerkbaits under 12 bucks are hard to come by and i would like to hear your recommendations.

[@davidtoelle3532]

GettingFish try the lucky craft lightning pointer and lightning stacy90 excellent quality for $10 onTW.

[@schneelutz]

What do you guys think of the Expride MH? I would like to have that heavier range. Will it still be suitable to cast the Vision 110? Best regards, great work, keep it up

[@tacticalbassin]

I really prefer the medium for this application. You can throw a ton with that rod, its got a wide range already.

[@SJtoobsox]

I love how ALL the baits crush the fish lol

[@JCiurej34]

What conditions do you typically throw each type of color in?

[@cncfxstb]

matt, which size hook do you put on the Vision 110 and the Rerange 110's, thanks!

[@drakeaamold9758]

God bless