Common Mistakes When Fishing With Z-Man Kicker CrabZ
- By: Matthew Lanier
- on
I’ve noticed anglers making the same common mistakes when fishing with Z-Man Kicker CrabZ.
Lately, this lure has been a weapon for me on tournament day and has helped me reel in some solid fish.
But, I see anglers have struggled with how to work it properly because of THIS major error.
Here’s how to correct it!!
Common Mistakes When Fishing With Z-Man Kicker CrabZ [VIDEO]
Become A Better Angler While Saving Time & Money
Kicker CrabZ Setup:
- Rod: Slot Machine Custom Rod
- Reel: Daiwa Ballistic MQ 2500
- Hook: Z-Man Texas Eye Jighead
- Z-Man Kicker CrabZ
It is no secret how well the Kicker CrabZ have been for me lately.
After hitting the water with a few different anglers, I was able to uncover why so many are struggling with this lure.
The retrieve is everything when it comes to finding success with the Kicker CrabZ.
After casting out the Kicker CrabZ, common thinking suggests twitching the lure like you would a jerk shad.
This can be effective in some situations.
But for me, I’ve found that can actually spook more fish away than attract strikes.
These lures are designed to be worked on or very close to the bottom.
I have found success by simply letting the crab fall to the bottom and then make use of a SLOW straight retrieve.
I have the Kicker CrabZ rigged up on a Z-Man Texas Eye Jighead to maintain weedless properties.
So you can slowly bounce this lure along the bottom without getting hung up.
Instead of twitching or popping the rod, just pull back on the lure to drag it on the bottom.
Repeat this and reel in the slack until you get a bite or the lure is close to the boat.
As the rod tip falls, that is when you want to reel the slack in the line back up.
Erratic actions and twitches often appear unnatural and spook fish off.
If a fish is following the lure and considering eating it and then the crab jumps up, the fish will likely swim off.
Crabs would not normally jump or twitch up off the bottom.
What is your favorite crab imitation or lure to use for inshore fishing?
Do you use a different or similar retrieve to what I use for crab lures?
Go ahead and get the conversation started below in the comments section!!
Finding The Fish Help
In order to help make sure that you are targeting the right areas based on the latest feeding trends and upcoming weather forecasts, make sure to use the following 3 resources because they will save you a ton of time.
1. Weekend Game Plans (updated weekly)
These regional game plans will show you exactly what types of spots to target in under 10 minutes… just click the video to start, and you’ll be informed on what to do on your next trip.
2. Smart Fishing Spots Platform (updated every 15 minutes)
This exclusive software literally shows you where the most fish are likely to be feeding based on exactly when you’ll be fishing. It factors in the tides, wind, and weather to help you quickly see which areas to target throughout the day.
3. Community Reports (live feed)
The Insider Community platform is what you can use to see what is biting near you, and you can get to know other members who fish in your area. Plus, you can use it to keep a log of your catches so you can use past trips to help predict future catches.
Related categories:
STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish every trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).
Thanks Matt! Always looking for advice like this about retrieval tactics.
I love this video it is very instructive . I was wondering with the hook set into that slot on top how to set the hook , would it be a problem getting a good hook up (is there a certain way to achieve it).
How do you rig the Zman Kickercrabz, i cant tell from the video, and on just a regular Zman jig. Thanks
We have a video on that… just search the kicker crab in the search bar at the top and it will I up! Thanks for watching!
Matt, thanks for this video. I have struggled with this bait. What weight Texas eye jig do you suggest? Also, how about a short video showing how you rig it? Thanks
Hey Jeff!
I usually use the eighth ounce option but I will go up to the 3/16th with heavier current. Good question!
Like that tip
We appreciate you watching!
Hey Matt,
Great info! But my question is: what are the wading boots you are wearing? I’ve been looking for some just like those that are taller and more protective.
Hey Jody! Those are NRS Boundary boots. love em! We appreciate you watching!
Can’t wait to try that technique
So glad to hear that you found it helpful, Daniel!~
Makes great sense. Thanks
Thanks for taking the time to leave a nice comment, David!
Good advice. Thank you.
We appreciate you watching!
So simple of an idea but it makes perfect sense. Thanks for sharing the video and your thoughts Matt.
We appreciate you watching, Jeff!