My chatter baits wont chatter.

[Slackdaddy]

I have been using Z man 1/4 and 3/8 chatter baits for a few years.
They are my go to lure for Snakehead and catfish on Patuxent river tidal creeks.

I am having a hell of a time getting them/keeping them "vibrating"
There is no rhyme or reason to when the will or wont "vibrate"

Any advice on having better luck ??
I tie my Suffix 20# braid directly to the metal "loop" that is on the chatter bait.

Also, the 1/4 oz is the perfect size,, but to light to get casting distance with 6' medium rods and 20-30# braid.
I have started using the 3/8 oz just for the weight, but the hook is to LARGE.
Is there any other brand chatters that have the smaller hook of the 1/4oz,, but weigh 3/8 oz?

Thanks,
Slack

[brianisoutside]

When you first start to real them in give the rod a good pop like half a hook set. Once it’s vibrating you should be able to slow your retrieve and keep it going


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[john from md]

As Brian said, you have to give them a jerk once you get the slack out of the line to get them moving. Once they have the motion they tend to keep it.

[Slackdaddy]

Thanks,, I'll give that a try.
Any ideas on a heavier one, without increasing hook size?