What type of action does contact between a crankbait and bottom structure create?

Contact between a crankbait and bottom structure creates an erratic action that mimics the movement of injured or struggling prey. When a crankbait bumps against rocks, logs, or other underwater obstacles, it typically deflects off these structures in unpredictable ways. This erratic movement is crucial as it can trigger the predatory instinct in fish, making them more likely to strike.

In contrast, a smooth glide suggests a steady, consistent motion which does not accurately represent the behavior of prey that may be in distress. Similarly, a steady pull and linear motion imply a controlled and unvarying presentation that lacks the enticing, chaotic movement fish seek out when hunting. Therefore, the erratic action produced by contact with the bottom structure is the most effective for attracting fish.