DUO Realis Jerkbait 85F vs 85SP vs 85DR SP: Which One Should You Throw?
The Realis Jerkbait 85 comes in three versions: 85F, 85SP and the new 85DR SP. They share the same compact 85mm size, so which one should you tie on? It comes down to one question: how deep are the fish, and do you want the bait to rise, hang or dig? Here is a quick guide.
Quick comparison
| Model | Buoyancy | Where it works best | Best season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Realis Jerkbait 85F | Floating | Upper water column, shallow cover | Spring, early summer, warm water |
| Realis Jerkbait 85SP | Suspending | Shallow to mid depths, pressured fish | Year-round, especially fall |
| Realis Jerkbait 85DR SP | Suspending, deep diving | Fish holding around 1.5–2.0m (5–6.5 ft) | Fall and winter |
Realis Jerkbait 85F: the floating version
The 85F uses a fixed-weight system for an instant, linear response and a predictable cast. Because it floats, it stays in the upper meter of the water column. That makes it a great choice over shallow grass, wood and rock where a suspending bait could hang up, and in warmer water when fish chase.
Choose the 85F when: fish are shallow and active, or you are fishing over cover.
Shop the Realis Jerkbait 85F →
Realis Jerkbait 85SP: the suspending all-rounder
The 85SP is the smallest Realis Jerkbait and carries the full series design: a flat-sided body with high-pitch roll action that throws intense flash and pushes water. On the pause it hangs in place, which is exactly what tempts a following fish that won't commit.
Choose the 85SP when: forage is small, fish are pressured, or you want one bait that works most of the year.
Shop the Realis Jerkbait 85SP →
Realis Jerkbait 85DR SP: the new deep diver
The 85DR SP is the newest member of the family. It keeps the small profile but is built to dive deeper and reach fish holding in the 1.5–2.0m range. It keeps a stable posture, casts accurately and responds to slow and fast retrieves alike, with a sharp short-distance jerk.
Choose the 85DR SP when: fish sit a bit deeper, such as off points, bluff walls or drops in fall and winter.
Shop the Realis Jerkbait 85DR SP →
Can't decide? Carry all three
Many anglers keep all three in the box because they cover the same lake at different depths and seasons. Start shallow with the 85F, slow down with the 85SP when fish follow but don't eat, and switch to the 85DR SP as the water cools and fish drop deeper.
Rigging tips for 85mm jerkbaits
- Use light fluorocarbon, around 8–10 lb, so the small bait keeps its action and reaches full depth.
- A loop knot or a small snap helps the bait dart freely.
- Match the cadence to the water temperature: faster in warm water, long pauses in cold water.
All three versions are in stock in Florida and ready to ship, with free shipping on orders over $190.