COLUMBIA, S.C. – The fishing community is buzzing with excitement as Berkley PowerBait unveils its latest product, the CullShad. This innovative swimbait is positioned to play a significant role in the ongoing trend of larger baits, allowing anglers to enhance their shallow water fishing experience like never before.
"There’s no question that the big bait trend is the strongest it has ever been. Anglers have been asking for Berkley to join the movement and Berkley has answered the call," said Toby Lapinski, a representative for Berkley. The CullShad, with its design and construction tailored to catch big bass, has already made waves, particularly highlighted during the 2023 Major League Fishing REDCREST, where it gained widespread attention among competitors and on various social media platforms.
The CullShad stands out as a solution to what many anglers have faced with traditional harnessed swimbaits. Berkley has diligently worked through numerous design iterations and incorporated feedback from professionals to ensure the CullShad addresses common frustrations in this category. The infusion of Berkley’s renowned PowerBait flavor enhances the appeal of the bait, making it a notable addition to any angler’s tackle box.

"The added benefit of taste to the category of large swimbaits—infused with Berkley’s famous and scientifically engineered taste—makes it easy to see why the CullShad garnered fast praise from the pros," Lapinski added.
"The added benefit of taste to the category of large swimbaits—infused with Berkley’s famous and scientifically engineered taste—makes it easy to see why the CullShad garnered fast praise from the pros,"
For those looking to elevate their fishing game, the CullShad boasts a combination of a big profile for drawing attention, proprietary Honey Comb Technology that ensures optimal action and durability, along with some smart engineering. Key features include a hook retention clip that secures the treble hook for easier skipping and options for smart weighting that allow for precise control of the bait’s sink rate.
The design of the swimbait is engineered to minimize blowouts while functioning effectively at various speeds, ensuring that the tail kicks even at slower speeds. Additionally, the pre-rigged harness comes ready for immediate use, adding convenience to the fishing experience.
"An advantage so strongly requested by anglers that Berkley moved up the production cycle to meet that demand," remarked Lapinski, underscoring the urgency and importance placed on this release.
"An advantage so strongly requested by anglers that Berkley moved up the production cycle to meet that demand,"

The CullShad is available in sizes of 6 inches and 8 inches, appealing to different fishing preferences, with a retail price of $11.99 for the smaller size and $14.99 for the larger. In terms of color variety, anglers can choose from options like Albino, Electric Shad, Ghost Morning Dawn, and more, allowing for customization based on their local waters and conditions.
Berkley aims to have the CullShad available in June 2023, promising to elevate how anglers approach shallow water fishing. The versatile design paired with the bait’s inherent attractants encapsulates the spirit of innovation that Berkley is known for.
Race Results
For those intrigued by the advancements Berkley brings to fishing lures, the introduction of the CullShad of the PowerBait line marks a significant step toward enhancing the experience of both amateur and seasoned anglers alike. As the fishing industry continues to evolve, Berkley remains committed to meeting the demands of its community with cutting-edge solutions and products that deliver results.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, as more anglers get their hands on the CullShad, it will be interesting to see how it impacts fishing tournaments and weekend outings alike, solidifying Berkley’s place in the fishing tackle market while satisfying the appetite for innovation among fishing enthusiasts.

