Excelent post to read. I love to use a jerk bait. (Rapala X-Rap) I use them all year long. Different depths through out the year and different speeds. I use a 6'-6" with a bass pro high speed reel to recover line quickly. Usually 10pound berkley vanish. I dont just fish the open water, I will throw right in the middle of the thick trees. I worry first about getting a bite then about how I can get the fish out. Good luck out there.