WHAT IS IT?
Z-Man 6-inch Scented Jerk ShadZ
WHAT SETS IT APART?
Made from Z-Man’s durable ElaZtech plastic, which is said to be significantly more durable than standard plastic material, Scented Jerk ShadZ can hold up in the fiercest bite. That means you won’t need to change baits after every catch. Also, ElaZtech’s natural buoyancy keeps it sitting perfectly horizontal for the lifelike posture that tricks the big ones. Offered in 24 colors, these baits are infused with Z-Man’s exclusive Pro-Cure Super Gel. Made from real fish and strengthened with amino acids, this bass-tempting elixir gives more reason to bite and even more reason to hold on.
HOW DO I USE IT?
Z-Man has long enjoyed a prominent position in one of the most productive bait shapes ever created — the soft jerkbait — with its popular Scented Jerk ShadZ. Previously available in 3-, 3.5-, 4-, 5-, and 7-inch models, this slender, split tail bait now comes in a 6-inch version that offers a strategic size option for matching available forage. Twitched on a wide gap hook or rigged on a lead or tungsten jighead, this bait presents a classic profile that mimics shad, alewives, herring and other bass snacks.
HOW MUCH?
$6.49
MORE INFORMATION:
ANGLER’S INSIGHT:
Z-Man’s Jerk ShadZ lineup enjoyed two historic boosts when Jeff Gustafson used the 4-inch version to win the 2021 Bassmaster Elite at the Tennessee River and then the 2023 Bassmaster Classic at the same venue. Gussy’s “moping” (vertical jighead minnow) technique made good use of the convincing baitfish form, but in subsequent years, anglers have increasingly leveraged the big-bite appeal of larger forms. While the 7-inch Jerk ShadZ presents a killer gizzard shad and blueback herring image, sometimes, the fish are not quite bold enough to eat something that size. Backing down just a little to the new 6-inch size can be a deal closer.
