Best Jerkbaits for Bass Fishing – 10 Recommendations
When targeting bass, jerk baits are an essential lure option, especially if the fish behave non-aggressively. A crucial aspect is choosing the right jerkbait that suits the prevalent water conditions. For this reason, today I have listed some recommendations for the best jerkbaits for bass fishing.
This article gives tips on selecting the best-floating jerkbaits used for any situation based on experience and efficient methods. The suggestions provided will help improve success in catching bass, whether experienced or just starting as an angler. Therefore, you should read through these ideas carefully to increase your chances of catching more fish.
If you’re interested in recommendations other than jerkbaits, we have a separate review article for all categories of bass fishing lures and baits.
Top Jerkbaits We Recommend For Bass Fishing
Each of these jerk baits offers unparalleled and unique features and benefits that are tailored specifically to different fishing scenarios, thus making them great additions to any angler’s tackle box. Below is a breakdown of what each one is best used for:
1. Berkley Stunna 112: Balances for natural darting and pausing, mimics live baitfish, ideal for clear, spooky waters.
2. Shimano World Minnow 115SP: Long casts suitable for open waters and deep water retrieval, excels with slow-sinking action.
3. Strike King KVD 100 Jerkbait: Quick darting motion designed by Kevin VanDam, versatile in various water clarities and conditions.
4. Shimano World Diver 99SP: Best deep jerkbait – Targets bass in deep structures, effective in deep lakes or during colder months.
5. Nishine Lure Works Baby Abino 70S: Small, sinking jerkbait ideal for pressured waters and finesse fishing.
6. Imakatsu iRoller70: Lipless, rolls and wobbles, best in muddy or murky waters to mimic distressed baitfish.
7. Megabass Vision 110 Silent GP Stain Reaction: Silent, rattle-free lure for cautious fishing in pressured waters, targets intelligent bass.
8. Megabass Vision 110+2 Elegy Bone: Deep-diving, effective year-round for targeting deep-suspending bass.
9. Megabass Vision 110 Sexy French Pearl: Reflective finish ideal for clear waters, mimics shimmering baitfish in sunlight.
1. Berkley Stunna 112
The Berkley Stunna 112 has become a staple in my fishing arsenal, particularly after Hank Cherry employed it to win the Bassmaster Classic. Its composition incorporates brass weights for long-distance casting and a tungsten weight transfer system for exact, accurate casts. With the 180° head, the lure in this baitfish likeness turns to the real thing.
The jerk bait features a slow pause sink, making it look like a wounded minnow enticing bass. Various colors are available for the Stunna 112, enabling one to adapt to different water conditions so you can match the hatch, increasing your chance of success no matter what season or clarity level may be present. Its combination of distance precision and lifelike action make Berkley Stunna 112 an angler’s first preference when they want more catches.
Pros
- Long-distance casting
- Precise accuracy enhancement
- Lifelike minnow simulation
- Effective slow sink
- Versatile color options
Cons
- Potentially high cost
- Specific technique required
- Limited size variety
2. Shimano World Minnow 115SP: A Flash Boost technology
The Shimano World Minnow 115SP really stands out as a jerk bait in my tackle box, especially in those cold months of spring when the bass won’t move much. What’s so unique about it? Well, its Flash Boost technology ensures there’s always some flickering and flashing, even if I stop moving the lure around.
This alone is usually enough to get them interested because the thing looks like it might be wounded, zigzagging, and jerking like that. Just when you think you’ve seen it all…the fish strike at the Shimano 115SP! Fast, slow, stop & go…the different speeds and pauses often trigger even the most cautious ones.
Pros
- Flash Boost technology
- Durable construction
- Lifelike action mimic
- Effective in cold
Cons
- Higher price point
- Specific retrieval technique
- Limited color options
3. Strike King KVD 100 Jerkbait – Lifelike 3D eyes
The Strike King KVD 100 Jerkbait, co-designed with fishing legend Kevin VanDam, is a staple in my tackle box for trophy bass fishing. Its compact design and lifelike action mimic a wounded minnow, making it highly effective at attracting big bass. This jerk bait is versatile, suitable for both baitcasting and spinning setups and features a weight transfer system that allows for long, accurate casts.
Its realistic 3D eyes and premium hooks enhance its appeal and improve hook-up ratios. From personal experience, the KVD 100’s ability to entice strikes, even on slow days, makes it an essential tool for any serious bass angler.
Pros
- Compact lifelike design
- Versatile setup compatibility
- Long, accurate casts
- Effective trophy lure
Cons
- Requires precise retrieval
- Limited size options
- Higher price point
4. Berkley Stunna 112+1 – The Ultimate Sinking Jerkbait
One of the most essential parts of my deep water fishing gear is the Berkley Stunna 112+1 Jerkbait. It is most effective for me when I want to target bass that are lurking around submerged structures or hiding in deeper water. Other lures don’t always get to the depths that this one can, because it has unique sinking action. I have noticed that it often makes trophy-sized bass, which are more aggressive than usual, strike more often than not.
This jerkbait consistently performs well even when conditions change because its movement is so lifelike and it’s made out of tough materials so you can rely on it to work right. The reason it’s so great for me during the cold months is that when the weather gets colder and bass start going deep, I still catch fish with my Stunna 112+1! I believe that serious anglers will find this lure valuable because its baitfish imitation looks real and it sets the hook reliably which improves our chances for big bass.
Pros
- Reaches deeper depths
- Lifelike baitfish imitation
- Durable, reliable construction
Cons
- Limited shallow utility
- Higher cost potential
- Specific retrieval technique
5. Shimano World Diver 99SP – The Ultimate Deep-Diver
The Shimano World Diver 99SP has converted into a significant tool in my deep-water fishing arsenal and seems helpful for smallmouth bass targeting. Attracting bass consistently from a distance and provoking aggressive strikes could be done by the ability to dive up to 30 feet and Flash Boost technology that mimics a wounded baitfish.
Regarding this jerk bait, its side-to-side action is real, and it comes in pigment varieties, which means it can be used across different water conditions. Those looking to enhance their deep-water fishing success will surely find the World Diver 99SP indispensable, considering its durability and deep diving design meant for reaching out to deeper spots where big bass hide, making it ideal for serious anglers after reliability.
Explore more jerkbaits for smallmouth bass.
Pros
- Deep diving capability
- Realistic baitfish mimic
- Durable construction
Cons
- Limited shallow effectiveness
- Higher price point
- Specific retrieval needed
6. Nishine Lure Works Baby Abino 70S – The Noise Maker
The Nishine Lure Works Baby Abino 70S is a great lure for bass fishing in the winter. Its spoon-like body moves in a way that attracts fish. The lure looks hurt and moves slowly. Bass is lazy in winter. So this lure makes them want to eat it. The colors are pretty. They copy a real fish.
The lure can work in many water types. It can catch bass, perch, or pike. It is well-made and sinks slowly. The zig-zag motion makes fish excited. The colors look different from most lures. People who fish in winter will like the Baby Abino 70S. It is made with care and does its job very well.
“The Nishine Lure Works Baby Abino 70S has become my go-to bait for winter fishing. Its realistic swimming action and incredible paint detail make it irresistible to bass.” – Mike – Pro Angler.
Pros
- Enticing slow retrieve
- Realistic baitfish mimic
- Versatile water adaptability
- High-quality hand-painted
Cons
- Limited fast retrieve
- Higher price point
- Specific target species
7. Imakatsu iRoller70 – The Slow Sinker
The Imakatsu iRoller70 is a great lure for fishing in clear water. It looks like a real minnow and moves its tail like one, too. When you pull it through the water, it rolls around like an injured fish. It is slow float also makes sounds that bass find hard to resist when the water is clear.
Because it sinks slowly, you can control how deep it goes and keep it where the bass is more likely to see it for a longer time. I find this lure very useful for catching both smallmouth and largemouth bass in different types of clear water. If you plan to fish in clear water, the iRoller70 is a must-have lure because of how it looks and sounds to the fish.
Pros
- Mimics wounded baitfish
- Sound-producing plate
- Slow-sinking control
Cons
- Specific application use
- Higher price point
- Limited size options
8. Megabass Vision 110 Sexy French Pearl – Floating Lure
The Vision 110 Sexy French Pearl jerk bait is one of the best lures for catching bass. It stands out due to its smooth action and bright colors. The lure floats in the water. This makes it look like a wounded fish. Bass often strike at hurt prey.
This lure fools both shallow and deep bass into biting. Its strong build makes it last through rough use. You can count on it not breaking apart. Whether fishing around rocks or underwater plants, this jerk bait works great. It performs best when the water is 38 to 70 degrees. For bass anglers, this lure combines good looks with results. It raises your chances of reeling in a big bass.
Pros
- Realistic baitfish imitation
- Quality construction durability
- Effective across depths
Cons
- Limited color range
- Higher price point
- Specific temperature effectiveness
9. Megabass Vision 110+2 Elegy Bone – Tungsten Balancer
The Megabass Vision 110+2 Elegy Bone is a useful tool in my fishing gear. It can dive deep, reaching up to 12 feet below the surface. This allows me to target bass that are swimming at deeper depths. What makes this lure unique is its ability to move in an erratic and responsive way, like the other Vision 110 lures. But it can do this while diving deeper, thanks to its special dive angle and tungsten balancer system.
This feature helps me cast the lure accurately over long distances and diving depth. It also helps the lure move nimbly during retrieval. So I can fish effectively over deep structures or when the water is cold and bass swim deeper. The Vision 110+2 is durable and looks realistic. This consistently triggers strikes from both largemouth and smallmouth bass. It proves useful in various fishing conditions.
Pros
- Deep-diving capability
- Erratic responsive action
- Durable, realistic construction
Cons
- Higher price point
- Specific gear required
- Limited shallow use
10. Megabass Vision 110 Silent GP Stain Reaction – Quiet and Stealthy
The Megabass Vision 110 Silent GP Stain Reaction is a great fishing tool. It is quiet and stealthy. It works well in clear or crowded waters. This jerkbait moves like the original Vision 110. But it does not make noise. This smaller jerkbait is good for catching wary bass. It has a tungsten balancer system. This lets you cast it far. It dives at a steep angle. It can reach bass up to 12 feet deep.
The lifelike swimming motion works well. The strong build lasts a long time. In clear waters, the Vision 110 Silent attracts bass quietly. It does not scare them away. This helps you catch fish in tough spots.
Pros:
- Stealthy silent operation
- Deep diving capability
- Lifelike swimming action
Cons:
- Limited noisy action
- Higher price point
- Specific condition suitability
What to Look for in a Jerkbait for Bass Fishing?
See through vs. Solid Lures: Clear, see-through lures work great in clean water. Bass can easily check them out. They seem like real, live food. But in murky waters, opaque lures are better. Their solid color stands out more. This makes bass notice them faster.
Feather Tails: Feather tail hooks make lures move like real fish. This helps in clear, calm waters. Bass doesn’t get spooked easily. The gentle feather tail motion tempts them to bite. They might not strike otherwise.
Diving Deep: Having lures that dive at different depths is useful. Bass can be anywhere – shallow areas or deep waters. Their location changes with time, temperature, and food. Lures that reach various depths attract bass no matter where they are.
Tungsten Rattles: Some lures have tungsten rattles inside. This dense metal allows long casts. It also creates specific sounds that lure bass from afar. The rattles mimic real baitfish noises. They are compact, so the lure swims naturally, too.
Horizontal Slotted Area: A jerkbait has a horizontal slot that helps adjust the center of gravity. This allows the lure to balance and suspend in the water. This feature works best when the lure is paused during retrieval, keeping it in the strike zone. Nearby bass are more likely to strike at a lure that stays still with minimal movement.
Variable Frequency Rattles: Different types of rattles in a jerkbait produce different sounds. Some bass prefer high-pitched rattles, while others prefer low, grumbling sounds. Various rattle options allow anglers to experiment and find what works best in their fishing area.
Externally Barbed Hooks: The hooks on a jerkbait have barbs on the outside. This makes it harder for bass to escape once they bite. The barbs reduce the chance of fish throwing the hook during a fight. Bass often make strong runs or jumps, so a secure hook-up is important to land more fish.
Natural Color Patterns: Jerkbaits that look like minnows, bluegills, or perch are more effective at catching bass. These colors mimic the appearance of prey in different water environments. Bass is more likely to strike lures that resemble their natural food, especially in clear water where they rely on visual cues.
Conclusion
To conclude, Picking the correct jerkbait is key for effective bass fishing. The jerkbait must match the water conditions and bass behavior. For beginners, the Berkley Stunna 112 is a great choice. It is easy to use in various environments. Experienced anglers may prefer the Megabass Vision 110+2 Elegy Bone. This lure can dive deep to target suspended bass. The Megabass Vision 110 Silent GP Stain Reaction is designed for clear waters. It allows a stealthy approach. The Shimano World Minnow 115SP is ideal for long-distance casting in open waters. Each lure is crafted for specific scenarios. Selecting the right jerkbait for the fishing environment and your skill level increases chances of success.
FAQ
What are the best jerkbaits for bass fishing in 2024?
Some excellent jerkbaits for 2024 are the Berkley Stunna and Strike King KVD. These baits are popular because they move realistically. This works well in different water conditions. The Shimano World Diver 99SP is a top choice for cold, deep waters. The Shimano World Minnow 115SP casts far and attracts bass suspended in the water column. Jerkbaits like these are designed for various fishing situations. They should be in every angler’s tackle box.
Where can I find the Berkley Stunna 112 jerkbait?
The Berkley Stunna 112 jerkbait is easy to find. You can buy it at big sports stores. Or you can get it online. The Berkley Fishing website sells it, too. And fishing shows may have it. Check places like Bass Pro Shops, TackleWarehouse, and Amazon. Looking at a few stores helps you find the best price. You can also see if they have new models.
What makes the Shimano World Minnow 115SP jerkbait special?
The Shimano World Minnow is a great lure for catching bass. It has a special technology called Flash Boost. This technology uses a foil system inside the ghost minnow lure. The foil system flashes even when the lure is not moving. This flash looks like a small fish trying to get away. Bass are attracted to this flashing light. This makes the World Minnow work well in clear water. The flashing light helps the bass see the lure. You can use the World Minnow in open water or around structures. The flashing light keeps attracting bass during the entire retrieve.
How effective is the Strike King KVD 100 Jerkbait?
The Strike King KVD 100 Jerkbait is a great fishing lure for catching bass. Designed with help from pro angler Kevin VanDam, it moves like an injured baitfish. This causes bass to strike at it hard. The lure works well in many cold water bottom conditions. It jerks in an unusual way that attracts both smallmouth and largemouth bass. The KVD 100 is a trustworthy lure for catching bass consistently in different fishing spots.
What are the features of the Berkley Stunna 112+1 jerkbait?
The Berkley Stunna 112+1 Jerkbait is made by Hank Cherry, a great bass fisherman. It works well for catching bass. It is 4 3/8 inches long and weighs 1/2 oz. The lure can go down 6 to 10 feet under water. It has three #6 Fusion19 EWG Hooks to catch fish well. A tungsten weight helps you throw it far and straight. When you stop moving the lure, it sinks slowly like an injured small fish. This makes bass want to strike at it. The lure can turn its head 180 degrees, so it looks very real. It moves like a real injured fish. This lure is really good for catching hungry, aggressive bass.
How deep can the Shimano World Diver 99SP jerkbait dive?
The Shimano World Diver 99SP is a great lure for catching bass that are swimming deep in the water. It can go down to a depth of 6 to 8 feet. The small size of this lure is perfect for reaching bass that are hanging out in deeper, clearer waters or near underwater structures. Bass often stay in these deeper areas. The lure looks like the food that bass eat. This makes it a top choice for anglers who want to fish deeper and in a smarter way.
What species can I catch with the Nishine Lure Works Baby Abino 70S jerkbait?
The Baby Abino 70S is a small jerkbait lure. Anglers use it to catch bass. This lure moves like a real fish. It works well for largemouth and smallmouth bass. But it can also catch other fish like pike and walleye. The subtle movement attracts these fish, especially in clear water. With the right technique, anglers can use it for panfish too, like perch and crappie. The lure’s versatility makes it useful for many types of fish. It’s a good lure to have in your tackle box.
What is unique about the Imakatsu iRoller70 jerkbait?
The Imakatsu iRoller70 jerkbait moves specially. It rolls like an injured baitfish. This attracts predatory fish to bite. The jerkbait has no lip. This makes vibrations stronger. The stronger vibrations help fish find it in murky water. There is a built-in weight system. This helps the jerkbait cast farther and more accurately. It also provides better control during retrieval. With these features, the iRoller70 is very effective for catching bass and other predators. It gives anglers precise presentation of sluggish fish and increases chances of getting bit.
What tackle box setup is recommended for jerkbait fishing?
For good jerkbait fishing, have different jerkbaits in your tackle box. Get jerkbaits of various sizes, colors, and depths. This works for changing situations. Use a medium-light to medium rod about 6.5 to 7 feet long. Pair it with a baitcasting or spinning reel that retrieves fast. Use 10 to 15-pound fluorocarbon line. It is less visible and more sensitive. Make sure your jerkbaits have sharp treble hooks. This helps to hook the fish well. Keep jerk baits are organized in a split tackle box. You can access them quickly. Polarized sunglasses help you see your lure and underwater structures better.
Also, check:
Best Topwater Lures for Bass Fishing – Top 5 Picks
Swimbaits for Bass Fishing – Top 10 Picks Tested
Best Frog Lures for Bass Fishing – Top 9 Picks