I-Method
I字系· I-shaped retrieve, i-ji-kei· Beginner
The I-method is a dead-straight, slow retrieve of a minimal-action lure just under the surface, so it tracks in a perfectly straight line — an "I" shape seen from above.
What it is
Named for the katakana character that looks like a vertical line, the I-method (I-ji-kei) is a straight, slow retrieve of a lure with almost no built-in action, kept just beneath the surface. The lure leaves a subtle wake and nothing else — no wobble, no roll.
Why it's used in Japan
On calm, clear Japanese lakes, bass keying on small baitfish near the surface are often spooked by an aggressive action. A lure that simply glides in a straight line looks like an unaware baitfish and can be the only thing that draws a bite in those conditions.
How to fish it
Use a purpose-made I-shape hard bait or a soft bait such as the Flash-J on a light jig head or spine hook. Cast, let it settle just under the surface, and reel as slowly as you can while keeping the lure tracking straight. Do not add rod action. Takes are usually visual.
Lures for I-Method
Flash-J 3"
フラッシュJ 3インチ
A slim baitfish soft bait with an internal aluminium foil plate for flash, built for mid strolling and other swimming finesse presentations.
KARASHI
カラシ
A 59 mm slow-sinking finesse hard bait from Megabass designed for two distinctly Japanese presentations: subtle I-shaped retrieves and sharp subsurface dog-walking. KARASHI targets wary bass with a compact profile, minimal vibration, and sudden escape action.
Last Ace F
ラストエースF
A floating elastomer soft bait from EVERGREEN designed to imitate a vulnerable baitfish at or near the surface. Available in 80, 95, and 110 mm sizes, Last Ace F supports subtle I-shaped retrieves, surface twitching, and nail-weighted hover strolling presentations.
issei G.C. Maji I-ji Rareshi 60F
G.C.マジI字「ラレシ」60F
A 60 mm floating I-shaped hard bait from issei designed for stable straight-line retrieves, exceptional casting distance for its 3 g weight, and a natural head-up rise when paused.