Pro bass angler Stephen Browning demonstrates how to effectively use the ChatterBait JackHammer in the 3/4-ounce flavor to comb mid-depth grass flats. With water temperatures just under 50°F, Browning proves that the JackHammer excels in water temperatures typically reserved for jerkbaits and other “cold water lures.” Check out our roundup of the best ChatterBaits for 2025.
Featured Products
- BLADED JIG – Z-Man Evergreen JackHammer ChatterBait (3/4-ounce), color – Green Pumpkin: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- TRAILER – Z-Man Scented Jerk ShadZ, color – Shiner: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- ROD – St. Croix Legend Tournament Bass, 7’10” Heavy Moderate Casting Rod: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- REEL – Lew’s Tournament Pro LFS Casting Reel, 7.5:1: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- LINE – Gamma Edge Fluorocarbon, 16-pound: Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
Targeting Mid-Depth Grass
Browning focuses on main lake points with submerged grass beds ranging from 11- to 15 feet deep. Utilizing his Garmin LiveScope, he identifies key fish-holding areas. By casting the heavy JackHammer and allowing it to sink just above the grass, he maintains contact with the bait while keeping it in the strike zone. This technique proves effective at engaging and trigging bass suspended over the grass beds.
Equipment and Setup
Browning employs a 7’10” heavy moderate-action St. Croix Legend Tournament Bass Series rod to optimize his presentation paired with a high-speed Lew’s Tournament Pro reel (7.5:1 gear ratio). He spools the reel with 14-pound fluorocarbon line, which provides the necessary sensitivity and strength. For the trailer, he opts for a straight-tail soft plastic, such as a Z-Man Scented Jerk ShadZ, to help maintain the bait’s depth and prevent it from rising above the grass.
Presentation Tips
Browning emphasizes the importance of a slow and steady retrieve, allowing the JackHammer to tick the tops of the grass. Occasionally, he imparts subtle rod twitches to mimic the erratic movement of prey and trigger reaction strikes. This method proves successful in cold water scenarios where bass are less aggressive and require a more finesse approach.
Browning’s approach to cold water bass fishing with the ChatterBait JackHammer highlights the lure’s versatility and effectiveness in challenging conditions. By targeting mid-depth grass and employing a deliberate presentation, anglers can increase their chances of success during cold fronts and other conditions marked by cold water.
Boat Setup and Misc.
- BOAT – Ranger Z521R Commanche: Check out at Ranger
- OUTBOARD – Mercury Pro XS 250hp: Check out at Mercury
- FISH FINDER – Garmin GPSMAP Touch-Screen Fish Finder/Chartplotter Combo, 12-inch: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- FORWARD-FACING SONAR (FFS) – Garmin LVS34 LiveScope Plus Live Scanning Sonar Transducer: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- TROLLING MOTOR – Garmin Force Trolling Motor: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- SHALLOW WATER ANCHOR: Power Pole 8 ft. Blades: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
