Checkmate Skirted

Built To Explode Through The Surface Strike Zone.

The STORMBORN Baits Checkmate Skirted is a handcrafted topwater fishing lure designed for anglers targeting aggressive freshwater predators in heavy cover and shallow-water ambush zones. As the skirted version of the popular Checkmate profile, this lure combines surface disturbance, visual presence, and a premium skirted presentation to trigger explosive strikes from fish actively hunting near the surface. Whether worked across vegetation edges, lily pad fields, backwater canals, or shoreline cover, the Checkmate Skirted is built to command attention where big predators feed.

Key Features

• • Skirted Topwater Profile — Premium skirt material adds movement, bulk, and visual attraction during pauses and retrieves.

  • Heavy Cover Performance — Designed for fishing around vegetation, shallow structure, and ambush points where predator fish commonly strike.

  • Tournament-Tested Colors — Offered in proven color patterns developed for varying water clarities and lighting conditions.

  • Handcrafted Construction — Individually handmade using durable components selected for demanding fishing environments.

  • Predator-Focused Design — Built specifically for anglers targeting aggressive freshwater game fish known for violent surface strikes.

  • Premium Component Package — Constructed with quality hardware and materials designed to withstand repeated strikes and cover contact.

Specs Table

Best Use & Conditions

• • Heavy Vegetation: Effective around lily pads, grass lines, reeds, shoreline cover, and shallow backwater environments.

  • Low-Light Feeding Windows: Particularly useful during morning, evening, and overcast conditions when predators are actively feeding near the surface.

  • Aggressive Reaction Strikes: Designed to create surface commotion and visual presence that can trigger explosive topwater attacks.

  • Target Species: Snakehead, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, bowfin, and other aggressive freshwater predator fish.

Rigging & Tips

• • Pause-and-Go Retrieve: Alternate between short movements and pauses to allow the skirt material to flare and pulse naturally.

  • Cover Edges: Work the lure along grass lines, pad edges, and shallow ambush points where predators often stage.

  • Strike Timing: After a visible blowup, allow the fish to fully commit before setting the hook.

  • Color Selection: Darker patterns often excel in stained water while brighter patterns can improve visibility in cleaner conditions.

  • Maintenance: Rinse and dry after use, and periodically inspect skirts, hooks, and hardware for wear after fishing heavy cover.

Brand Origin & Maker

STORMBORN Baits, also known as TARGARYEN Baits, is a family-owned and operated American lure company founded by dedicated tournament anglers and kayak fishermen. As an Independent American Crafter brand, the company focuses on designing and hand-building premium fishing lures that address gaps often overlooked by mass-market tackle manufacturers. Every lure is handmade in the USA using quality components selected for demanding freshwater fishing conditions, with a strong emphasis on performance around heavy cover and aggressive predator fisheries.

Pack Count / Variants

• • Package Contents: One Checkmate Skirted topwater lure.

  • Available Colors: Texas Tea, Blue Grass, Orang A Tang, Graphite Green, and Ruby Red.

  • Profile Style: Skirted version of the standard Checkmate design.

Care & Storage

• • Allow the lure to dry thoroughly before storage to help preserve skirt material and hardware finish.

  • Store separately from soft plastics and sharp-edged tackle to prevent skirt damage and tangling.

  • Inspect hooks, split rings, and skirt attachment points periodically to maintain peak topwater performance.