A Little More Twitchin', A Little Less Jerkin'

Pick up any dozen articles about jerkbait fishing, and before you've read past the first or second paragraph in about 10 of them, you've undoubtedly heard the standard advice about using a jerk-jerk-pause cadence. That's why I read a little farther here recently when I saw a jerkbait story in which Elite Series pro Fred Roumbanis (right) proposed a different cadence.

Instead of simply taking a few quick winds to get your jerkbait down to its optimum operating depth, Roumbanis suggests taking a few "winding jerks" after the bait hits the water. In his words, "This allows the jerkbait to reach its horizontal plane quickly, thus spending more time in the most productive strike zone."

When using braided line with jerkbaits, as Roumbanis does, a "twitch, twitch, pause" cadence, in which you only move the rod tip 8 to 10 inches, is preferred, compared to the traditional method. His contention is that these smaller rod movements will help you avoid ripping the hooks away from fish. Instead, you'll feel pressure and know it's time to set the hook.

It's also important to use a rod with a very soft tip, according to Roumbanis. The soft tip ensures your twitches have a less drastic effect on your jerkbait. "The idea, after all," he said, "is to keep your bait in the same area as long as possible." His personal preference is the 3-power, 6-foot 9-inch medium-action iROD Genesis II Series.

"Jerkbaits and cold water are a phenomenal combination that can load your boat in a hurry," noted Roumbanis. "If you're having trouble getting bites with more commonplace tactics, however, don't be afraid to go against the grain. Sometimes, all it takes is some simple experimentation to turn a tough day into an unforgettable one."