The Top 10 best Jerkbaits for Bass: A Complete Guide and Review

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Jerkbaits are often the preferred lures for bass fishing. They are effective all year long. But they have no match during spring and fall when the bass is most active. 

Anglers love Jerkbait because they grant a higher degree of control over the lure. It moves when you want. You can use it to explore deep water, shallows, and structures. Plus, it mimics the erratic swim of a dying baitfish, the favored dish of bass. In short, it is a lure that any angler must have in their tackle boxes. So, keep reading if you don’t have one yet. Here you have 12 of the best bass lures

Quick Comparison – 10 Best Jerkbait For Bass

Length (inches)Weight (ounce)Type
Rapala X-Rap1.6 to 3.90.07 to 0.46Suspending
Yo-Zuri 3DB3.540.35Suspending
Strike King KVD 4.753/5Sinking
Rapala Husky51.8Suspending
Megabass Vision 1104 ⅓ 0.5Suspending
Smithwick Lures5 ½ 0.71Sinking
Luck E Strike Rick Clunn6.120.32Sinking
Bandit BDTWB2016⅝ Sinking
Codaicen Jerkbait4.750.5Floating
Sougayilang Jerkbait 5.50.81Floating

Our Reviews: The 10 Best Jerkbait For Bass

Get ready to reel in the big ones with our comprehensive guide to the best jerkbaits for bass. In this section, we’ll be reviewing 10 of the top jerkbaits on the market that are proven to catch bass. Go ahead for more information.

Rapala X-Rap Jerkbait

Best Overall

Rapala X-Rap Jerkbait 10 Fishing lure (Silver , Size- 4)
  • The adrenaline-pumping X-rap slashbait has Xtreme...
  • Running depth: 3-8 feet
  • Weighs .4375 Oz
  • Ten different colors 
  • Length: 1.6 to 3.9 inches
  • Weight: 0.07 to 0.46 ounces
  • Three sizes 
  • Textured body 
  • Holographic eyes

Rapala is widely known for its outstanding lures. The X-Rap is not an exception. 

It is available in four different sizes and ten unique colors. The textured body, glossy colors, and holographic eyes will drive the bass mad.

But the action is where Rapala killed the competition. It stays still while you are not reeling. But it starts moving like a wounded fish once you do. Rapala also added a foil teaser tail to enhance its appeal even further. If that is not enough, a set of rattle will make sure to draw the fish’s attention. On the other hand, the internal long-cast system helps to increase the casting range. 

Two black nickel treble hooks and a hard plastic lip complete the hardware of the Rapala X-Rap

The Good

  • Wide variety of options to choose from
  • Internal long cast system increases casting distance
  • Life-like wobble action

The Not-So-Good

  • Hooks corrode in saltwater

Megabass Vision 110 Suspending Jerkbait for Bass

Best Premium Option

Megabass Ito Vision Oneten 110 Jerkbait - Ozark Shad
  • Megabass Ito Vision 110 Suspending Jerkbait...
  • Depth: 6 feet
  • Length: 4 1/3" (110 mm)
  • Length: 4 ⅓  inches
  • Weight: 0.5 ounces
  • Three #6 treble hooks
  • 11 unique colors 
  • Tungsten balance system

Let’s start by saying that Vision 110 doesn’t come cheap. However, it is worth every penny. 

The textured scales, gills, mouth, and 3D eyes make the Vision 110 look realistic enough to deceive bass. But this jerk bait is more than just looks. It also has unparalleled action. Each time you jerk the rod, the Vision 110 produces huge flashes that will draw bass out to the open. 

But that’s not all. The Vision 110 features a tungsten balance system. It is a fancy name for weight distribution. The relevant thing is that it makes the lure cast like a bullet. It also enhances the action and keeps the movement erratic.

The Good

  • Quality built
  • It makes your casting more precise
  • Strong hooks
  • Beautiful presentation

The Not-So-Good

  • It doesn’t work that well when the bass is deep or in stained water.

Codaicen Fishing Jerkbait for Bass

Best Budget Option

Codaicen Fishing jerkbaits for Bass - Hard Bait Floating...
  • CODAICEN FISHING TACKLE floating minnow jerk bait....
  • CODAICEN FISHING JERK BAITS have brilliant...
  • THE CODAICEN FISHING tackle Lure minnow crankbait...
  • Four models available
  • Length: 4.75 inches
  • Weight: 0.5 ounces 
  • Two treble hooks
  • Lifelike skin
  • 3D eyes

It is time to show something of value to you money lovers. The Coadaicen jerk baits for bass are the most affordable lures we’ve reviewed thus far. They retail for around 7 bucks apiece. But you can also get a 4-pack for 20 dollars! 

The lure itself is nothing special. Don’t get me wrong. It gets the job done, especially during warm months. The hooks are small but strong enough to catch bass. The light and flashy colors, paired with the erratic movement, produce constant flashes. Plus, the in-built steel balls increase casting range, vibration, and action even further. 

Overall, Codaicen offers one of the best jerk baits for the money. Therefore, if you are starting your fishing journey, you will be more than glad to have them. 

The Good

  • Great value for your money
  • The light colors make this jerk bait work on clear waters
  • Decent casting distance

The Not-So-Good

  • Tiny hooks, they look prone to bent
  • It doesn’t dive so deep

Yo-Zuri 3DB Jerkbait Suspending Lure

Yo-Zuri 3DB Jerkbait Suspending Lure, Prism Tennessee Shad,...
  • Baitfish profile to imitate a variety of forage
  • Suspending for "jerk bait" technique
  • Mylar Tail hook for Flash and Lifelike Fin
  • Black nickel treble hooks
  • Length: 3.54 inches
  • Weight: 0.35 ounces 
  • Mylar tail
  • Flat sides 
  • Six colors to choose from 
  • ABS resin body

The Yo-Zuri 3DB jerkbait for bass has flat sides, which makes it ideal for slow retrieves. Plus, the ribbed belly increases vibrations that bass can easily detect.

Now, two things make the Yo-Zuri unique. The first one is the patented internal 3D prism and the flashy tail. Both help to mimic the swim of a wounded baitfish. Additionally, its vivid colors reflect light even on the murkiest of waters. It is a deadly combination. 

Like before, two black nickel treble hooks will keep the bass hooked until the end. In addition, the rings and hard ABS resin body promise years of endurance. 

The Good

  • Sturdy construction
  • Realistic construction
  • It works great on shallow water

The Not-So-Good

  • The action is nothing impressive
  • Small hooks

Strike King KVD Deep Diving Jerkbait

Strike King (HCKVDJ300D-514) KVD Deep Jerkbait 3-Hook...
  • Weight transfer system
  • 3D eyes
  • Premium black nickel hooks
  • Four different sizes
  • Length: 4.75 inches
  • Weight: ⅗ ounces
  • 21 colors 
  • 3x black nickel treble hooks
  • Weight transfer system

Nothing beats a diving lure when the bass is lurking in the depths. That’s why the KVD by Strike King has made its way into this list.

It has an ABS body with three black nickel treble hooks. There is no tail. Thus the KVD action solely relies on body shape. The movement is enough to trigger lethargic bass. But it is nothing special. 

The color palette is where Strike King truly nails it. There are 21 different colors to choose from, ranging from light chartreuse shad to pro-black. They also paid a lot of attention to the scales, gills, and eye design.

The Good

  • Impressive color palette
  • More hooks are better
  • The bucktail enhancRealistics design es the action
  • Ideal for fishing in the depths
  • Weight transferring system increases casting distance

The Not-So-Good

  • Not enough action

Rapala Husky Jerk 10 Fishing Lures

Rapala Husky Jerk 10 Fishing lure (Glass Minnow, Size- 4)
  • Suspending/Neutral Buoyancy
  • Long-Casting
  • Loud Rattles
  • Size 6
  • Length: 5 inches
  • Weight: 1.8 ounces
  • 14 colors 
  • ABS 
  • Rattles 
  • VMC Black nickel hooks

Rapala is, arguably, one of the best lure brands. So, it is not a surprise to be reviewing another of its products. 

The Husky has an ABS resin construction, just like before. This time, however, we get three black nickel treble hooks for a higher catch rate. But we lose the tail. 

The lure has in-built rattles that will produce vibrations as you move it. Additionally, the Husky enjoys the long casting system of its brother, the X-Rap. 

The Husky stays true no matter the speed. Besides, its intricate design and erratic movement will drive the bass crazy. 

The Good

  • Good for fishing around 4 to 6 feet
  • The rattles help to trigger more bites
  • Great for long castings
  • Ideal for fast retrieves and trolling

The Not-So-Good

  • The hooks are smaller than advertised
  • The body is not as strong as the X-Rap

Smithwick Lures Perfect 10 Rogue Fishing Lure

Smithwick Perfect 10 Rogue - AYU, 5 1/2"
  • Produces erratic action proven to provoke even...
  • Prompts vicious strikes by showing side-flash just...
  • Super sharp and super durable hooks stick any fish...
  • Three treble hooks
  • Eleven colors 
  • Large diving lip
  • Hard plastic body
  • Weight transfer system

Do you want something to fish in the depths? If so, Smithwick is here to help. It can reach 10-plus feet. This way, you can catch those lethargic deep basses. Therefore, this is an ideal jerkbait for winter bass fishing.

There are no extremely light colors. Hence, these lures are not suitable for crystal-clear water waters. However, we recommend using them on subtle colored lakes or rivers, as the Perfect 10 Rogue will draw more attention. 

The action is ok, nothing extraordinary. The weight transfer system keeps the movement realistic enough to produce bites. It also increases casting distance, which is its main purpose.

The Good

  • It sinks fast
  • Increases bites during colder months
  • Decent casting range
  • You can work it slowly or use it for trolling

The Not-So-Good

  • Stiff action
  • It doesn’t have enough detail. Thus, it doesn’t look as real as other jerkbaits

Luck E Strike RCSTX-32-1 Rick Clunn

Lucky Strike RCSTX-32-1 Rick Clunn
  • Product Type: Fishing Equipment
  • Item Package Dimensions: 15.494 L X 9.144 W X...
  • Country Of Origin: China
  • Weight: 0.32 ounces
  • Length: 6.1 inches
  • Three treble hooks 
  • Single color
  • Weight transfer system
  • 3D eyes

How could I leave the RC STX behind? Rick Clunn himself, the four-time Bassmaster Classic champion, sketched it. Let’s break it down.

Three thick treble hooks run along the 6.1 inches body. There is no tail. However, the RC STX doesn’t need it. The body was carefully designed so it can move like a real baitfish. Plus, it is remarkably responsive. Therefore, you can work it either with slow movements or frenetic retrieves. Still, I recommend using a stop-and-go technique, as it will drive bass out of their hiding. 

The RC STX is a year-round jerkbait for bass. Yet, you will notice that it performs better during colder months when the bass is less active.

The Good

  • It works great during colder months
  • The weight transfer systems increase water coverage
  • Versatile lure

The Not-So-Good

  • Not too many colors available
  • Some lures come with bent hooks

Bandit Walleye Minnow Jerkbait Fishing Lure

BANDIT LURES Walleye Deep Minnow Jerkbait Fishing Lure,...
  • 4 3/4-inch slender minnow/jerkbait trolls to...
  • Walleye, zander and other predator and gamefish...
  • Universal color patterns for wide-ranging...
  • Length: 6 inches 
  • Weight: ⅝ ounces
  • Two models: Shallow and deep
  • 20+ unique colors 
  • Three treble hooks 
  • Large plastic lip

When the bass is deep during colder months, you need something capable of reaching the depths. The BDTWD201 jerkbait does just that. The deep model reaches up to 27 feet, whereas the shallow version dives up to 12 feet. 

The construction is simple: A solid plastic with three treble hooks, a large lip, and a set of 3D eyes. There are neither scales nor gills. But you have an impressive selection of colors. The lighter ones are more suitable for murky waters. Conversely, the darker colors produce more biting on clear rivers and lakes

The Bandit BDTWD201 works best as a trolling lure. It doesn’t respond that well to light twitches of the rod.

The Good

  • It reaches impressive depths
  • Plenty color options
  • You can cover large areas with it
  • Ideal for colder months

The Not-So-Good

  • It doesn’t have too much action
  • Not for shallow water

Sougayilang Fishing Lures Large Hard Bait

Sougayilang Fishing Lures Hard Bait Minnow Crankbait with...
  • 10PCS Lure:Weight: 0.81oz; Length: 5.5in, Hook...
  • Brilliant colors:Brilliant colors and realistic...
  • Mental ball inside:With steel ball inside,Control...
  • Weight: 0.81 ounces
  • Length: 5.5 inches 
  • Pack of ten lures 
  • ABS body 
  • Three treble hooks 
  • In-built tungsten balls

Now we are talking about value for your money. Let’s check these jerkbaits out. 

The first thing is that you get ten Sougayilang jerkbaits for less than 20 bucks. It is an ideal choice for beginners or people looking to re-stash their tackle boxes. 

All lures come with three treble #4 hooks, red 3D eyes, scales, and gills patterns. They look realistic enough for fish. The hooks are small. But you can always change them if you have some lying around. Color-wise, you get five different colors. Choose the one that best suits the water you are fishing in. 

Each lure comes with two tungsten balls inside. They increase both weight and vibrations. Hence, making the jerkbait more appealing to fish while increasing castability. 

The Good

  • You get a lot of different lures for a small sum
  • Easy to cast with
  • Life-like design

The Not-So-Good

  • The hooks are not proportional to the lure
  • It doesn’t have enough action
  • Weak rings

Best Jerkbait for Bass: Rapala X-Rap

The Rapala X-Rap unspoken winner of today’s review. It has a super weight transfer system that makes the X-Rap cast like a bullet. You will be able to cover large portions of the lake quickly. It also increases the rattling and vibrations, thereby, attracting more fish. 

Like we said before, the X-Rap is all about the action. It randomly moves as you jerk the rod. Plus, the tail increases make it look more appealing to bass. In addition, the body painting produces plenty of flashes that will definitely draw attention. 

The Rapala X-Rap also gives you a lot of value for your money. It is affordable and well-built. The hooks will corrode in saltwater, that’s true. But you won’t be using it on anything but fresh water. Besides, you can always replace them if it comes to that. 

More Reviews

Bomber Lures Slender Minnow Jerkbait

Bomber Lures Long A B15A Slender Minnow Jerbait Fishing...
  • can be fished with a "twitch-twitch-pause"...
  • can be used behind downriggers to get at those...
  • Color patterns include new high-tech versions and...

Features:

  • 20+ colors 
  • 14 different models 
  • Two or three treble hooks
  • Polycarbonate body
  • Jointed models 
  • Saltwater rings and hooks 

Although it is an expensive option, the Bomber slender minnow is one of the best jerkbait lures for bass. There are plenty of models and colors to choose from depending on your needs. For example, you can pick between floating or deep diving jerkbaits with solid or jointed bodies. 

From solid black to bone white, there is a color for every need. The Bomber jerkbaits have great action, especially if you use a twitch-twitch-pause technique. Joined models move more. Hence, they could be a better choice when bass is lethargic. 

Deep-diving models could reach depths up to 25 feet. Therefore, they are ideal for colder months when bass hides in deeper waters. In contrast, choose a floating model during active periods, such as pre or post-spawn.

Pros: 

  • All-round jerkbait
  • There is plenty of options to choose from 
  • Corrosion-resistant hooks and rings 

Cons: 

  • It is hard to cast sometimes 
  • Action is not that impressive 

SHIMANO Coltsniper 140F Jerkbait for Bass

Shimano Inc. CURRENT SNIPER JERK 140F Bone White
  • CURRENT SNIPER JERK 140F Bone White
  • CURRENT SNIPER JERK 140F Bone White
  • CURRENT SNIPER JERK 140F Bone White

Features: 

  • Length: 5.5 and 6 3/4 inches
  • Weight: 1/8 and 7/8 ounces
  • Two treble hooks
  • Holographic design
  • Propulsion weight transfer system

SHIMANO is known for making quality fishing gear for the most demanding anglers. The Coltsniper is not an exception. 

The body is hard plastic with a holographic design. That means that neither gills nor scales are craved to the body. As a result, the Coltsniper is more likely to reflect light, making it an ideal choice in stained waters. 

SHIMANO added a proprietary propulsion system to the jerkbait. It consists of a spring that collapses prior to a cast. Then, the weight leaps forward and adds more momentum, resulting in a longer cast.

The Coltsniper sinks between 3 to 5 feet, making it a great option for spring and fall bass fishing. 

Pros: 

  • It has remarkably sharp and strong hooks
  • Ideal for long castings 
  • It works great on clear waters 

Cons: 

  • It has a learning curve, not suitable for beginners 

Guide To Buying Jerkbaits for Bass

Jerkbaits come in all colors and sizes. Anglers use them to target a wide range of fish species, including bass. But not all sizes, colors, and weight combinations will work in every situation. Identifying the right jerkbait is crucial for increasing your chances of landing a fish. 

That’s why we will take some time to talk about all the relevant features that any jerkbait has. You will also find some bits of advice on how each one impacts performance. This way, you can make an educated decision on which is the best jerkbait for you. Let’s get started.

Types of Jerkbaits

Although there are many jerkbaits models, they all fall under one of the following categories: Hard or soft body. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take some time to analyze each one. 

Hard Jerkbaits 

Most hard-bodied jerkbaits are either made out of plastic, wood, or polymers. Hence, they are inherently more durable than soft jerkbaits. They are easier to cast also. The extra weight increases casting distance. Some models even come with in-built weight transfer systems that improve casting. They also increase movement and produce vibrations that will attract nearby fish. 

Some hard-bodied jerkbaits, known as jointed jerkbaits, comprise two sections: The tail and the head. Both parts join in the middle via a ring. Here, the lower side is responsible for all the rattling and action. 

Regardless of the number of sections, all hard jerk baits fall under one of the following subcategories: 

  • Floating Jerkbaits:

As the name suggests, these are jerk baits that float just beneath the surface. They have a plastic lip on the head that makes the lure dive a couple of feet as you retrieve the line or jerk the rod. It quickly floats back to the surface as soon as you stop. 

Floating jerk baits are year-round lures. However, I recommend using them when the bass is more active, like during the pre-spawn season. 

  • Suspending Jerkbaits:

Suspending jerk baits are the opposite of floating models. In this case, the lure sinks to a certain depth which changes between models. 

Suspending jerk bait is a way to go when the bass is holding at specific depths. For example, bass flees to deeper water during colder months or spawning seasons. 

  • Sinking Jerkbaits: 

Again, the name is self-explanatory. These jerk baits start to sink as soon as they hit the water and the ratio at which they do changes between models. Another important difference is that the lure goes up as you retrieve the line or jerk the rod. It sinks back again as you cease any movement. 

Also known as diving jerk baits, they are the workhorse of pro bass anglers. You can work them year-round and are particularly good when the bass is deep during the summer and winter months

Sinking jerk baits are typically heavier than the rest, making them ideal for long casts. 

Soft Jerkbaits 

Soft jerk baits haven’t been around as long as hard-bodies ones. However, their popularity is quickly rising because they are more affordable, do less damage to the fish, and offer a much more natural presentation. However, it is a little harder to use them. You must rig them properly to avoid line twisting. We recommend using a Texas rig approach with them. 

Longevity is another downside. Soft jerk baits are more likely to get damaged than hard ones. That’s why they come in bundles. 

What Color Jerkbait for Bass?

The truth is that there is no just one color. It all depends on where you are fishing. The best color will always be the one that matches the local baitfish. Take some time to analyze your surroundings to identify these colors. 

Typically one chooses the color so it blends with the water you are fishing in. For example, light colors go well on clear waters. In contrast, darker colors produce more bites on cloudy waters. The important thing here is to make sure that the body easily reflects light. 

What Size Jerk bait for Bass?

Bass will eat just about anything that fits in their mouth. So, you better pick a jerk bait between 3 to 5 inches. These sizes will prove most useful for a wide range of bass sizes. 

When to Use Jerkbaits for Bass?

While you can use jerk baits all year long, they are particularly effective during spring, when bass are most active. However, if you know how to choose, you can still use jerk baits during summer, winter, and fall as well. Let’s see how.

  • Winter: 

As you read before, bass move to deeper water during winter. They stay somewhat inactive until the water temperature starts to rise. 

Here both suspending and sinking jerk baits are the best bet. Keep in mind that, during colder months, baitfish naturally die because of low temperatures. Thus, the objective here is to mimic that dying pace. Let the lure sink. Then twitch the rod, and let it sink back again. 

  • Spring: 

Spring is arguably the best time for bass fishing. They are getting things ready for the spawning season. Plus, the water temperature slowly starts to rise, making fish more active. 

However, remember that not all bass spawn at the same time. Besides, not all lake sections have the same water temperature. Therefore, it pays to try different approaches for different areas. Use floating or suspending jerk baits for shallow and slightly deeper water, respectively. 

  • Summer: 

As during winter, bass flees to the depths during summer. Use the same tactics as before, diving jerkbaits. 

  • Fall:

Bass starts to feed aggressively for the upcoming winter. The water temperature is high, and baitfish relocate to the shallows. Here a floating jerkbait is king. You can also use suspending models for targeting weeds and similar structures.  

Check here if you want to know more about the best time to fish for bass. 

What’s the Difference Between Jerkbait and Crankbait? 

Crankbaits and jerkbaits are two of the most popular lures for bass fishing. But what’s the difference between them? 

  • Body:

Jerkbaits are longer and slimmer than crankbaits. Plus, they have up to three treble hooks. In contrast, crankbaits are shorter but bulkier with two treble hooks. 

  • Fishing Technique: 

Style-wise, jerkbaits are fished using a twitch-and-pause technique. Crankbaits, on the other hand, are typically cast and retrieved at a constant rate. 

  • Running Depth: 

While both lures can sink beneath the surface, jerkbaits stay higher than the average crankbait. That’s why crankbaits are more suitable for fishing in deep waters. 

  • Lips: 

Most jerkbaits have somewhat the same lip. Things are different on crankbaits, where you can find anything from lipless lures to square bills.  

Lips have a huge impact on crankbait performance. However, it has a lesser influence on jerkbaits.

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