Ladson, SC– Fresh out of the mold and ready to fool even the most stubborn fresh and saltwater gamefish, the new 3” Scented Jerk ShadZ™ has officially arrived. This compact, forked-tail baitfish imitation is the newest, smallest addition to Z-Man’s popular Scented Jerk ShadZ family, offering a noticeably slimmed down profile versus the 3.5” version that has already earned a permanent place in anglers’ boats and tackle bags. The 3” model fishes beautifully on a Finesse EyeZ™ Jighead, Finesse ShroomZ™ Ned head, or nose-hooked on a dropshot rig. 

A Proven Family Expanded 

The Scented Jerk ShadZ lineup has long been a staple across countless species, from largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass in freshwater, to redfish, trout, and snook in saltwater. Z-Man Pro Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson says it best: “the Scented Jerk ShadZ line-up of baits has been at the top of my arsenal for years for bass fishing and other species as well. It’s been responsible for the two biggest wins of my career – a Bassmaster Elite Series win and the Bassmaster Classic!”  

Angler demand led to the recent addition of a new 6” size and an expanded color assortment in the 7” model. The new 3” size expands in the opposite direction, giving anglers a smart, realistic way to match smaller forage. When gamefish are feeding selectively on tiny bait, presenting a 3” Jerk ShadZ can be the difference between a follower and a strike.

The Finesse Advantage 

With the rise of Forward Facing Sonar (FFS), lure options have expanded in two directions. Some baits are getting larger for on-screen visibility and added drawing power for trophy fish. Others, like the 3” Scented Jerk ShadZ, are getting smaller to tempt wary fish that are keyed in on small bait.  

This compact profile delivers the same rolling, darting action the Jerk ShadZ family is known for, just in a more subtle and bite-sized package. Infused with Pro Cure Super Gel scent, it excels in cold, clear, or high-pressure conditions where natural movement and a low-key presentation makes all the difference. And despite its small size, Gussy will be the first to tell you: “it still puts big fish in the boat.” 

Tough, Lifelike, Ready to Fish 

Made in the USA from 10X Tough ElaZtech® superplastic, the 3” Scented Jerk ShadZ is both naturally buoyant and extremely durable, giving anglers confidence to catch fish after fish without  burning through packs of baits. When paused, it hovers horizontally to perfectly mimic the natural posture of a motionless minnow. This bite sized baitfish profile is ideal for smallmouth, spotted bass, speckled trout, redfish, crappie, and any predator that feeds selectively on small prey. 

Now available in 10 colors, the 3” Scented Jerk ShadZ joins the popular bait family that already includes 3.5”, 4”, 5”, 6”, and 7” sizes. Whether downsizing for finesse or perfectly matching tiny forage, the new 3” model gives anglers a powerful tool for tough conditions.