Cold Water Bass
Cold Water Bass tactics using jerkbaits like the Shadow Rap bait from Rapala can be a deadly option. Jerkbaits with three hooks are highly sought after by anglers, but they can also be intimidating when it comes to catching smaller fish.
However, jerk baits have become a popular choice for both smallmouth and largemouth cold water bass fishing throughout the year, not just in the spring. Al Lindner and Mark Fisher discuss their experiences using jerk baits, as well as the features they appreciate in their Humminbird fish finders.
Using Jerk Baits For Cold Water Bass Tactics
Al Lindner starts off by expressing his love for three-hooked jerk baits, which are considered the ultimate jerk bait for many anglers. However, he acknowledges that there can be some challenges when it comes to catching smaller fish. Despite this, jerk baits have become a significant player in both smallmouth and Cold water largemouth bass fishing, and they are no longer just used in the spring. 
Al Lindner mentions that smallmouth fishing is now a year-round activity, and anglers are gravitating towards smallmouth Cold water bass. As a result, jerk baits are being used consistently throughout the year.
One of the key features that Al Lindner appreciates in his Humminbird fish finder is the ability to split the screen. He explains that he used to use a simple unit for sonar and another unit for side imaging and mapping.
However, with the split screen feature, he can now have both sonar and side imaging displayed simultaneously. This allows him to navigate through the water more efficiently, especially in areas with lots of islands and jigs.
Mark Fisher adds that he also enjoys using the zoom feature on his Humminbird fish finder. He explains that when fishing in bigger water, he can zoom in on his map for tight running, while still having a long-distance view in the background. This feature has been particularly useful for navigating through Canadian lakes with lots of islands and twists and turns.
The Rise of Jerkbait Fishing
Al Lindner mentions that jerk bait fishing has become increasingly popular for both smallmouth and largemouth Cold water bass. It is no longer just a technique used in the spring. He explains that jerk baits are effective in cool to cold water conditions, particularly during the transitions between seasons. The Shadow Rap bait from Rapala is specifically designed for these conditions.
Mark Fisher explains that jerk baits excel in cool to cold water because they imitate injured baitfish, which are more vulnerable during this time. He notes that jerk baits work best in clear water, as the fish can see the bait more easily. In darker water environments, baits that make noise or create vibrations, such as spinnerbaits or crankbaits, tend to be more effective.
Shadow Rap for Cold Water Bass Tactics
Mark Fisher highlights the unique features of the Shadow Rap bait that set it apart from other minnow baits in the Rapala lineup. He explains that the Shadow Rap is a flat-sided bait, which gives it a distinct flash underwater. This flash is achieved with minimal movement and action, making it ideal for cold water situations. The bait can be fished in place with the right slack line and feel, and it can even be manipulated to do a 180-degree turn.
Al Lindner adds that the Shadow Rap is different from other jerk baits because it is not a conventional striding bait. Instead of having a limited range of movement, the Shadow Rap can move left to right with minimal rod movement or slack line pickup. This responsiveness makes it highly effective in cold water, where fish are swimming slowly and taking their time to inspect the bait.
The Effectiveness of the Shadow Rap Bait
Al Lindner and Mark Fisher both agree that the Shadow Rap bait is incredibly effective in catching cold water bass, particularly in the fall. Al Lindner shares his recent experiences fishing for smallmouth cold water bass with the Shadow Rap and how he caught fish weighing up to five and a half pounds. He emphasizes that the bait is not only effective for smallmouth bass but also for largemouth Cold water bass.
Mark Fisher adds that the Shadow Rap is a must-have bait in every angler’s tackle box. He describes it as the closest thing to magic in a jerk bait that he has seen in a long time. The bait’s ability to imitate injured baitfish and its unique movement make it highly attractive to finicky biters in cold water conditions.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed the use of jerk baits for bass fishing, specifically focusing on the Shadow Rap bait from Rapala. Jerk baits have become a popular choice for both smallmouth and largemouth bass fishing throughout the year, not just in the spring.
The Shadow Rap bait stands out from other minnow baits in the Rapala lineup due to its flat-sided design and unique movement. It is highly effective in cold water conditions, imitating injured baitfish and attracting finicky biters. Both Al Lindner and Mark Fisher highly recommend the Shadow Rap bait, emphasizing its effectiveness in catching bass, particularly in the fall.
They also discuss the features they appreciate in their Humminbird fish finders, such as the ability to split the screen and zoom in on maps. Overall, jerk baits, especially the Shadow Rap, are a valuable tool for bass fishing in various water conditions. So make sure to add this bait to your tackle box for a successful fishing season.
