Jerkbaits!

[BassmanfromNC]

hello all

I have never given jerkbaits much consideration, but today I used one that I bought from a friend last night and boy did it work, not even sure if i was using it right and I caught most of my fish today on it.

What line and rod/reel setup should be used for jerbaits?

Thanks

[ejtaylor822]

I use the same setup for jerkbaits as for cranks:  moderate action with medium power.  Works well for me for treble hook applications.

[J Francho]

I use a 6'2" medium power, x-fast rod for this.  I feel the recovery time of a fast tip is important for imparting the best action.  I use 8-12# coply line on a 6.3:1 baitcaster for this.

[Marty]

I have never given jerkbaits much consideration, but today I used one that I bought from a friend last night and boy did it work, not even sure if i was using it right and I caught most of my fish today on it.

The last nine words prove that you were using it right.

[Micro]

What line and rod/reel setup should be used for jerbaits?

Thanks

I've settled on two rods for working jerkbaits.  After some time fishing jerkbaits with less-than-optimal rods, I think I've nailed it.  At least, they feel really good to me.

For jerking jerkbaits, I'm using a Fenwick HMG model GT66M (6'6" medium/moderate-fast).  It's rated for 1/4oz to 7/8oz baits.  It's perfect for 1/2oz jerks.  The length is just right for me.  The shorter length and short handle makes for agile handling.   The moderate-fast action is plenty fast for a snappy jerk but soft enough for trebles.  I have a Daiwa Fuego spooled with 10# Yo-Zuri Hybrid on this rod.

For ripping jerkbaits, I've decided I like something else.  I'm using a Fenwick HMG model GT70M (7' medium/moderate fast).  It's rated for 1/4oz to 1oz baits.   The power and action is the same as my jerking rod.  But the longer length gives me a little more distance in casting.  The big difference is that it has a significantly longer handle.  I can bury the butt in my gut or in the bend of my arm for nice, long rips without excessive strain on my wrist or elbow.    

[roadwarrior]

I think Micro and I have functionally similar equipment.

My dedicated rod is an Avid AC66MF (now AVC66MF).

The rod is firm enough to work topwater and jerkbaits,

but the tip is soft. I also have a spinning rig to fish the

Rapala X-Rap and for fishing at night: Fenwick Techna

AV, AVS70MM/ Sustain 2500.

8-)

[fathom]

most of my topwater/jerkbaiting is done with an mbr782...crisp with a light tip...perfect for twitching with enough power for ripping.

very similar to rw's avid.

[BassmanfromNC]

Can a rod be used for crankbaits and jerkbaits as well? I was thinkning a medium with fast action, sound about right? Also thinking about 12 lb test line.

Thanks for all the input, every year I want to pick something new to explore to add to my arsenol. I think I want to try crankbaits more and start on jerkbaits.

[fathom]

you can use a m/f for most cranks, as well...the mbr782 makes an excellent crankbait rod...in most cases.

just watch the hookset...if you seem to be nailing your fish on the back treble, you may need to slow the hookset a bit or go to a more moderate action rod.