How to Fish With the Chatterbait

A chatterbait is a type of swim jig used for catching bass. A swim jig is a fishing lure with a lead head and soft body that makes a jerky motion as it swims through the water. A chatterbait, however, is different from other swim jigs in that a vertical blade is attached directly to its hook eye. When used properly, a chatterbait is designed to attract bass in two ways: by making a "chattering" or "rattling" sound, and by producing an erratic vibrating motion. A chatterbait is an effective, versatile and simple lure to fish.

Things You'll Need

  • Chatterbait
  • Fishing pole
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Instructions

    • 1

      Tie the chatterbait onto your fishing line with a palomar knot. Double the end of your fishing line so it forms a loop and string the loop through the lure eye. Knot it loosely over the lure as if you were tying it on with a regular knot, then open the loop and bring the lure through it. Pull the lure and fishing line in opposite directions to tighten the knot.

    • 2

      Cast out your fishing line and give your pole a sharp, short flick as the chatterbait hits the water. This movement gets the lure moving forward. Begin to reel it back in at a constant speed, also known as a constant retrieve. You can do this at a slow speed, a medium speed or a fast speed.

    • 3

      Stop reeling and give your fishing pole a twitch every few seconds as you are retrieving. These jerks cause the chatterbait to move even more erratically underwater, which is a huge draw to bass.

    • 4

      Tug your fishing pole backward and upward when you feel the quick, hard pull of a bass striking. This motion engages the hook into the mouth of the bass.

    • 5

      Reel the fish in, keeping the line taught at all times so the fish can't shake the hook loose. Lower the tip of your pole near the water as you're reeling. Pull the rod back up, then reel as you lower the pole back near the water. Continue this action, also known as the pump and wind, until the fish is at the surface, ready to net.