Hey guys,

So im newer to topwater fishing (and any bass fishing really that isn't soft plastics) and I have been having trouble with the jitter bug I recently bought.  Its the original, and its a 1/4 ounce lure and it feels too light. Even on regular 6lb mono im having trouble getting good casting distance. any suggestions??

6# mono/ 1/4 oz. - I assume you're using spinning tackle - shouldn't be a problem - make sure your spool is full.

Yes I should have included the fact that it is a spinning rod

Firts of all, define "good casting distance" ? how far is good for you ?

 

The Jitterbug has the aerodynamics of a kite, don´t expect it to fly a lot, specially when it´s the lil´ one, ( you purchased the smallest one ---> 2" )

Like Raul said, your not going to skyrocket that bait. That big metal lip catches a lot of air!

 

Try varying the amount of line between your top eye and the bait before you cast. There is usually a "sweet" spot that is the right length to really load the rod when you cast. Remember, the rod should throw the bait, not your arm. When you find the right length of line, you'll be able to feel it when you cast.

 

Maybe try a sidearm cast too. Some times keeping a bait like that down out of the wind will help too.

 

Classic bait that still catches fish. Good luck!

 

Jim

I fish the BIG Jitterbug and it cast's along way. Two things get a black one and change the hooks out,I use VMC 5/0. On the jitterbug there is a perfect speed and when you find that you will catch a ton of bass!

I fish the BIG Jitterbug and it cast's along way. Two things get a black one and change the hooks out,I use VMC 5/0. On the jitterbug there is a perfect speed and when you find that you will catch a ton of bass!

What is your personal reason for changing out the hooks? Ive heard a lot of people say that they downsize the hook to try and curb the amount of weed fishing they do. Its a great lure but I have to say, if there are any weeds of vegetation even close to the surface of the water, either the trebles or the front piece of metal will find a way to pick them up. And ive noticed (at least on the 1/4 lure) and added weight at all, even the smallest amount of pond scum, completely ruins the action. 

The hooks that come on the jitterbug are JUNK, i could not hook myself if I wanted too! You will miss alot of fish with them hooks. I fish my big jitterbug over deep weedlines,deep docks so I don't have much weed problems!

The hooks that come on the jitterbug are JUNK, i could not hook myself if I wanted too! You will miss alot of fish with them hooks. I fish my big jitterbug over deep weedlines,deep docks so I don't have much weed problems!

 

Exactly, stock hooks are junk.