Advanced Jerkbait Tricks For Cold Water Bass Fishing

As cold nights set in and temperatures around the country drop, bass begin acting in peculiar ways. Yes, some of them continue to ambush baitfish in the shallows when they can find it, but many are shifting toward Winter haunts. As these fish gather near outside structures their feeding habits begin to change and the way you target them should as well. 

If you live in the Southern half of the country your fish are still feeding aggressively in warmer water than our Northern brethren are currently experiencing. Your fish are most likely actively corralling baitfish in the backs of creeks and coves, feeding voraciously several times each day. During these times an aggressive jerkbait with maximum flash and movement is the key to consistent success. You need to distract these fish from the 1000’s of real prey so they will target the single, injured minnow that you are presenting. 

For those in the Northern half of the country, Winter is fast approaching. Many are already seeing freezing temperatures and water temperatures are beginning to plummet. This cold snap marks one of your best opportunities of the year for a giant bass! While many anglers shy away from the cold, you are the stand out who carries on and will be rewarded. When you’re targeting bass in cold water (below 50 degrees) flash becomes less important, the bait’s ability to suspending in place will be the triggering mechanism to make your fish bite. 

Below you’ll find links to both styles of jerkbait, the gear we use to throw them, and the terminal tackle we use to modify and perfect this presentation. All links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item. 

If you Could Only Have One Jerkbait... 

Bait- Megabass Vision 110: http://bit.ly/2j31TKb

Colors: HT-Ito Tennessee Shad or GP Pro Blue

Aggressive Jerkbaits… 

Shallow- Jackall Rerange 110: http://bit.ly/2ge0qED

Colors: Blue Pearl Shad, Silver Shad, Hollow Minnow

Shallow- Lucky Craft Flash Pointer SP: http://bit.ly/2aHz588

Colors: Bone Pro Blue, American Shad, Aurora Black

Midrange- Jackall Rerange MR: https://bit.ly/2CbWr6X

Colors: Hollow Minnow, Silver Shad, Ghost Wakasagi

Suspending Cold Water jerkbaits… 

Small- Megabass Vision 110 Jr: http://bit.ly/2OeAFBf

Colors: Ito Tennessee Shad, Mat Shad, GG Deadly Black Shad

Standard- Megabass Vision 110: http://bit.ly/2j31TKb

Colors: GP Pro Blue 2, Mat Tenn Shad, Killer Kawaguchi

Deep- Megabass Vision 110+1: http://bit.ly/2iGYOCX

Colors: GP Pro Blue, Mat Shad, GP Skeleton TN

Extra Deep- Megabass Vision 110+2: http://bit.ly/2BLQIBA

Colors: Mat Shad, Ito Tennessee Shad, GP Pro Blue

Hook and Split Ring Upgrades… 

Split Ring Replacement- Owner Hyperwire Black (Size 2): http://bit.ly/2v8ArBX

110 Replacement Hook- Gamakatsu Finesse Nano Treble (Size 5): http://bit.ly/2dWWAut

110 Junior Replacement Hook- Gamakatsu 1X Black (Size 8): https://bit.ly/3oSXVXp

Matt's Favorite Jerkbait Combo... 

Rod- Shimano Expride 6'10" medium: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Reel- Shimano Aldebaran MGL HG: http://bit.ly/2uQ4oH8

Line- Sunline Assassin 10 lb Fluorocarbon: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Alternative Reel: Shimano Curado 70 MGL K: https://bit.ly/3jdrMqa

Mid-Range Jerkbait Combo... 

Rod- Shimano Curado 6'10" Medium: http://bit.ly/2gUWTft

Reel- Shimano Curado 70 MGL K: https://bit.ly/3jdrMqa

Line- Sunline Assassin 12 lb Fluorocarbon: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Budget Jerkbait Combo... 

Rod- St. Croix Bass X 6'8" medium: http://bit.ly/2r0xWAs

Reel- Shimano SLX MGL 70: https://bit.ly/3gIUCgJ

Line- Sunline Assassin 12 lb Fluorocarbon: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Other Great Jerkbait Rods... 

-Megabass Orochi XX 6'11" Jerkbait Special: http://bit.ly/2OSVNwH

-Megabass Destroyer Oneten Special: http://bit.ly/2wVOSbY

-G Loomis IMX Pro 812 JBR: http://bit.ly/2QurcHi

-St Croix Legend Elite 6'10" Medium: http://bit.ly/2z2qdHc

-Shimano SLX 6'10" Medium: http://bit.ly/2L3wppO

Related Jerkbait Videos... 

Fall Jerkbait Fishing! Everything You Need To Know! (2020): https://youtu.be/mLkjULrvQFA

Winter Jerkbait Fishing- Tricks To Get More Bites (2019): https://youtu.be/_eOGx2ZXkzY

NEW Tactical Bassin Apparel... 

TacticalBassin Hat: https://bit.ly/31EYB8W

TacticalBassin Reaper Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2TwBWs7

TacticalBassin Shadow Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2FVD9Rs

TacticalBassin Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/2TvFMBD

TacticalBassin Hooded Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G

Blade Bait Tricks You Need To Try This Fall and Winter!

Most anglers have no idea how to fish a blade bait effectively. They might know that its traditionally considered a cold water lure but they have no idea it can be fished shallow around grass, worked aggressively, and even substituted for a lipless crankbait. Blades have so many uses in Fall and Winter, you really need to experience it for yourself. 

Traditionally the blade bait is hopped slowly along the bottom in cold water. It gives a slight vibration on the hop then "dies" and flutters back to bottom. Its remarkably effective for trophy smallmouth in frigid water but for the average angler, its applications stop there. That original cold water use is still effective and should be a part of your Winter arsenal but today is about expanding how you fish the blade bait. We use 2 retrieves throughout the Fall to get consistent bites. 

When the bottom is free of debris we fish the blade on the bottom. We use the exact same hopping motion as we use for the LV-500 to trigger a feed response. While that application is very traditional, you might be surprised to find out we often do it in 2-10 feet of water. The blade is not just a deep water bait, its incredibly effective in the shallows as well! The 2nd retrieve is a burning retrieve. 

We cast and wind the blade much like a traditional lipless crankbait, ripping it free when it comes in contact with grass or other debris. When fish have been pressured by tournaments or negative weather conditions, the switch to the silent vibration of a blade bait is deadly. Blade bait season is just beginning, you need to get out and give it a try!

Below you'll find links to our favorite blade baits along with the rods, reels, and gear we use to fish these baits effectively. The links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item. 

Traditional Blades... 

-Silver Buddy: http://bit.ly/2AcTelj

Preferred Colors: Silver Plated, Stainless Steel

-Blade Runner Blade Bait: http://bit.ly/2XMNoQj

Preferred Colors: Natural Shad, Chartreuse White

Custom-Style Blades... 

-Megabass Vibration X: http://bit.ly/2R7FlvL

Preferred Colors: Ito Hiuo, Jukocho Shad, Craw, Gill OB

-Damiki Vault: http://bit.ly/2rnO7e2

Preferred Colors: Black Holo, Real Shad, Red Craw, Flash Gill

-Jackall Keeburn: http://bit.ly/2or8sy0

Preferred Colors: Clear Shad, Dera Shad, Red Tiger, Silver

Hook and Hardware Upgrades... 

-Owner Hyperwire Split Rings (Size 2): http://bit.ly/2v8ArBX

-Owner STX-38 Treble (Size 8): http://bit.ly/2oNIeCD

Tim's Favorite Blade Bait... 

Rod- G Loomis IMX Pro 845 CBR: http://bit.ly/2og0BmK

Reel- Shimano Curado 70 MGL K XG: https://bit.ly/3jdrMqa

Line- Power Pro Maxcuatro 30 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ

Leader- Maxima Ultragreen 12 lb Mono: http://bit.ly/2ae97J9

Matt's Favorite Blade Bait Combo... 

Rod- Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Reel- Aldebaran 50 MGL HG: http://bit.ly/2uQ4oH8

Line- Sunline Assassin 12 lb Fluorocarbon: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Budget Blade Bait Combo... 

Rod- St. Croix Bass X 7'1" Medium: http://bit.ly/2r0xWAs

Reel- Shimano SLX 150 XG: http://bit.ly/2NfdOnk

Line- Power Pro 30 lb Braided: http://bit.ly/2aFg46b

Leader- Maxima Ultragreen 15 lb Mono: http://bit.ly/2ae97J9

NEW Tactical Bassin Apparel... 

TacticalBassin Hat: https://bit.ly/31EYB8W

TacticalBassin Reaper Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2TwBWs7

TacticalBassin Shadow Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2FVD9Rs

TacticalBassin Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/2TvFMBD

TacticalBassin Hooded Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G

Top 5 Rod and Reel Combos For Bass Fishing!

Which fishing rod should you get first? Which rods give you the best "bang for the buck?" Are there rods that can do it all? Should I use a spinning reel or a baitcaster? These are questions we get constantly so today we're showing you the top rods every angler should own. We're explaining the different lengths, actions, and powers so you know how to get the most for your money when you're shopping for rods. 

Choosing 5 rods proved more difficult than we expected. Matt and Tim had no problem deciding on the first 4 but when it came to that 5th rod they just couldn't agree. As a result, you're actually getting the top 6 rods every angler should own! Whether you're a brand new angler, looking for one rod that can do it all, or a seasoned pro with an affinity for high-end gear, we've got you covered. 

Today's video description is very detailed. We've broken down the top 6 rods into 3 different categories. The first section is dedicated to versatile high-end gear, the second to mid-priced combos that bring the best "Bank For the Buck", and the last section, to "budget" options that far exceed exceptions. The links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item. 

Budget Casting… 

Medium- Bass X 7'1 Medium: http://bit.ly/2r0xWAs

Matching Reel- Shimano SLX HG: http://bit.ly/2NfdOnk

Medium heavy- Dobyns Fury 7' Medium Heavy 703: http://bit.ly/2bGvlVV

Matching Reel- Daiwa Fuego CT: http://bit.ly/35hugfH

Crankbait- Shimano Intenza 7'2" MH Glass: http://bit.ly/2QADLTq

Matching Reel- Shimano SLX 150 XT: http://bit.ly/2BRTYL8

Heavy- Shimano SLX 7'5" Heavy: http://bit.ly/2L3wppO

Matching Reel- Shimano SLX 150 XT: http://bit.ly/2BRTYL8

Budget Spinning… 

Medium- Dobyns Fury 7' Medium: http://bit.ly/2e7HZPF

Matching Reel- Shimano Nasci 2500: http://bit.ly/2g278cC

Medium Light- Shimano Intenza 7' Medium Light: http://bit.ly/2s7kaQn

Matching Reel- Shimano Nasci 2500: http://bit.ly/2g278cC

All-Around Casting… 

Medium- Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Matching Reel- Shimano Curado 70 MGL: https://bit.ly/3jdrMqa

**Best Rod we've found at any price for jerkbaits**

Medium heavy- Daiwa Tatula Elite 7'3" Ehrler: http://bit.ly/2yLDr9z

Matching Reel- Daiwa Tatula Elite HS: http://bit.ly/2ONCBS1

Crankbait- Zodias 7'6" MH Glass: http://bit.ly/2cgmMAe

Matching Reel- Shimano Tranx 200: http://bit.ly/2Tv0yCy

**Can throw 10XDs, 6XDs, and Squarebills, Awesome all-around combo**

Heavy- Shimano Zodias 7'5" Heavy: https://bit.ly/3aeQbYW

Matching Reel- Shimano Curado 150 DC HG: http://bit.ly/2yHtsp4

**This Rod is available for PRE-ORDER and is worth every penny!!**

All-Around Spinning… 

Medium- St. Croix 7'1" Medium Legend Tournament: https://bit.ly/3kmQN2F

Matching Reel- Shimano Stradic CI4+ 2500: http://bit.ly/2gu84t7

Medium Light- Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium Light: http://bit.ly/2osaj3q

Matching Reel- Shimano Vanford 2500: https://bit.ly/2PDlKlB

**Vanford available for PRE-ORDER only**

High End Casting… 

Medium- G Loomis NRX 852C JWR: http://bit.ly/2hedqsq

Matching Reel- Shimano Aldebaran MGL 50 HG: http://bit.ly/2uQ4oH8

Medium heavy- G Loomis GLX 843C MBR: http://bit.ly/2gqziwT

Matching Reel- Shimano Metanium MGL 150 B: https://bit.ly/34HlAAk

Crankbait- Megabass Orochi XX 7’11” Launcher: http://bit.ly/2OSVNwH

Matching Reel- Shimano Bantam MGL 150 B: https://bit.ly/34HlAAk

Heavy- Megabass Destroyer P5 Tequila Baccarac: https://bit.ly/30GcHqb

Matching Reel- Shimano Metanium DC HG: http://bit.ly/2qrSZvs

**This Rod is INCREDIBLY versatile, throwing everything from frogs to swimbaits, to flipping and punching**

High-End Spinning… 

Medium- Conquest 902S SJR: http://bit.ly/2BiGUNi

Matching Reel- Shimano Exsence 3000: http://bit.ly/2iMtscV

Medium Light- Megabass Destroyer Flyssa: http://bit.ly/2B7NyFj

Matching Reel- Daiwa Certate LT 3000: http://bit.ly/35Kclij

NEW Tactical Bassin Apparel... 

TacticalBassin Reaper Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2TwBWs7

TacticalBassin Shadow Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2FVD9Rs

TacticalBassin Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/2TvFMBD

TacticalBassin Hooded Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G

Fishing With Spoons: Everything You Need To Know For Fall and Winter

Spoons are one of the most universal lures in fishing but are often overlooked. Today we're taking an in-depth look at jigging spoons. We start with a look inside Matt's spoon box to see exactly what he's using, then we cover how to modify them, the retrieves, and how to use your electronics for this fishing style. Come along as we explore the world of spooning. 

In the Fall and Winter the vast majority of big bass school in deeper water. Many lures can't reach these depths effectively. Amongst those that can, the spoon is the easiest to fish and arguably the most consistent producer. Once you know how to adapt the baits and retrieves to changing conditions, you'll be able to consistently spoon for bass throughout the cold water months. Don't miss the details on how Matt modifies these spoons, including how he's bending them to create different actions. 

Matt only uses a few baits for this technique but he uses a variety of colors and sizes for different situations. He also modifies his spoons with different hooks, swivels, and bends. Below you'll find links to all the different gear discussed in the video. In addition to the baits Matt has included his favorite spooning rod and reel combos along with the budget combo he has caught so many fish on. The links go directly to Tackle Warehouse where you can see detailed photos and descriptions of each item. 

Small Profile Spoons... 

-War Eagle Jiggin' Spoon (both sizes): https://bit.ly/2H9dJV1

Colors: Blue Herring, Nickel, Purple Shad

-Acme Tackle Kastmaster (1/4, 3/8, 1/2): http://bit.ly/2PtUwi3

Colors: Chrome, Chrome Neon Blue

Panfish Shaped Spoon... 

-Duh Spoon 1.25 oz: http://bit.ly/2zXfwGa

Colors: Black Shad, UV Black Crappie, UV Bluegill

Matt's Primary Spoons... 

-Duh Spoon 3/4 and 1 3/4 oz: http://bit.ly/2aKVLlG

Colors: UV Sierra, UV Morning Dawn, UV Fried Chicken

-Duh Spoon 2 oz: https://bit.ly/2TdgJ52

Colors: UV Sierra, UV Morning Dawn, UV Fried Chicken

Matt’s Spoon Box…

Box- Plano Edge 3700 STD Box: http://bit.ly/2t3uHMR

Hook and Hardware Upgrades... 

Swivels- Spro Power (Size 2, 4): http://bit.ly/2ay0p7d

1X Hooks- Owner ST-36 Trebles: http://bit.ly/2cWpeyw

3X Hooks- Owner ST-56 Trebles: http://bit.ly/2cVg7xW

Feather- Owner Feather Trebles: http://bit.ly/2m7XrAx

Treble Sizes... 

Size 6: Small Profile Spoons

Size 4: 3/4 Duh

Size 2: 1.25 oz Duh, 1 3/4 oz Duh

Size 1: 2 oz Duh

Matt's Small Spoon Combo... 

Rod- Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium: http://bit.ly/2nTq9FL

Reel- Shimano Aldebaran MGL 50 HG: http://bit.ly/2uQ4oH8

Line- Power Pro Maxcuatro 30 lb Braid: http://bit.ly/2clBRiQ

Leader- Maxima Ultragreen 12 lb Mono: http://bit.ly/2ae97J9

Matt's Zodias Spoon Combo...

Rod- Shimano Zodias 7'5" Heavy: https://bit.ly/3aeQbYW

**Available For Pre-Order**

Reel- Shimano Metanium MGL 150 B (HG): https://bit.ly/34HlAAk

Line- Sunline Assassin 20 lb Fluorocarbon: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Budget Spoon Combo...

Rod- Dobyns Fury 704 (7' Heavy): http://bit.ly/2bGvlVV

Reel- Shimano SLX 150 XT (HG): http://bit.ly/2BRTYL8

Line- Sunline Assassin 20 lb Fluorocarbon: http://bit.ly/2h4LNjm

Related Videos... 

Tim's Flutter Spoon Video: https://youtu.be/OH46tQAT634

How To Catch More Bass With Spoons: https://youtu.be/ldW7yW4Fum8

NEW Tactical Bassin Apparel... 

TacticalBassin Reaper Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2TwBWs7

TacticalBassin Shadow Hoodie: http://bit.ly/2FVD9Rs

TacticalBassin Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/2TvFMBD

TacticalBassin Hooded Sun Shirt: http://bit.ly/38cVi9G