Jerkbait fishing the extreme shallows isn’t the first thing that comes to mind for most bass fisherman but it’s where the bass are in many instances. Pro bass angler Gerald Swindle discusses when and how to fish a shallow running jerkbait to trigger bites from quality prespawn bass when most baits fall short.
TACKLE USED:
- Rapala Shadow Rap Shad
- Team Lew’s Pro-Ti SLP Speed Spool Casting Reel
- Sunline FC Sniper Fluorocarbon, 12lb
While balsa crankbaits are Swindle’s initial go-to bait, he keeps shallow running jerkbaits on deck for when the bass push into the 2-foot range and less. A realistic-profiled bait allows him to match the profile and movement of the forage while keeping the bait suspended off the bottom and clear of cover elements.