Jigs

Jigs

Jigs Overview

     There are many types of jigs, and it can get confusing. Typically, jigs look like crayfish. As you know, swim jigs look like baitfish. They are affective allayer long, and can be found on almost any angler's rod who is worth his "two cents" all year round. Especially prominent in the winter and summer months when bass become lethargic, are jigs. Just as one would use different crankbaits in different situations jigs are the same way. Certain jigs strive in certain areas where others do not. 

Jig Types

Football: Ever try to roll a football to your buddy? Chances are it didn't roll straight towards him. Football jigs are designed to roll like them on hard ground. The "wobble" makes it look more realistic. They usually have a horizontal line tie.

Grass: Designed for heavy cover and vegetation, grass jigs are designed to be completely weedless. Usually have a vertical line tie and thick weed guard.

Flipping: Most similar to a Grass jig, these jigs are designed to be placed into thick cover like wood piles. they have a very thick weed guard and line tie will vary.

Skipping: Designed with a flat bottom, these jigs are designed to be skipped into cover with an under-hand cast, similar to the action required to skip a stone. 

Rock: Specifically for not getting wedged in rocks, they have a wide, flat head and will come through rip rap (rocks) with ease.

Shakey: A go-to finesse bait for many anglers, the shakes head is a round jig with a flat bottom. It is designed to stand up. Try a 4-6" finesse worm.

Punching: The most heavy duty jig made, it will come through almost anything. consists of a tungsten or lead cone with a skirt and extra heavy-duty hook.

Swim: A swim jig is built with a hydrodynamic head designed to cut through the water column. Most swim jigs are designed to looked like baitfish. Whether that is shad, perch, bass, or bluegill, all are very affective. Just like a jerkbait, swim jigs can be fished a variety of ways. Experiment with multiple methods to discover the best technique for you. One method is called a straight retrieve. just reel it in consistently to keep it a desired depth. You can also try lifting your rod about a foot and then reeling in the slack. This will create a rise-and-fall action.

Bladed Swim Jigs: Basically a swim jig with a metal blade attached to the jig head. the blade creates vibration when retrieved. Will work well in dirty and clear water.

Jig Tips

Rod: 7'2" MH for MOST applications except heavy-duty stuff. Will work well in 3/8-1oz jigs. longer rod helps with cast distance and hookset.

Reel: Any bait caster with at least 10 pounds of drag will be fine. Slower gear ratios will ensure that you do not reel too fast. Faster gear ratios will help you take in line faster. 

Line: 12-20 pound fluorocarbon is best in clearwater situations. Low stretch and visibility. 15-30 pound braid. Smaller diameter and high strength are positives. When using braided line, be sure to use heavy duty hooks, as it will compliment the no stretch qualities of the line.

Color: Perhaps the most confusing aspect of jig fishing. In clear water, natural colors will work best. Bright and dark colors will be best in stained waters. 

Trailers: Try to match you trailer with your jig color. If you can not, try to match the opposite.