Hi everyone. so I have a new E6X Jig and Worm rod, the 852s rated for 1/8 -3/8oz. What generally works better for jig head weights? Do you go up to 3/8oz + the plastic? or would it be better to say go 5/16oz head plus plastic for a total weight of approximately 3/8oz? I know line/lure ratings are more of a guide these days, but I am new to this style of fishing and I am curious as to what works better.

 

thanks

I would try to hit the sweet spot @1/4 oz. including the skirt.Enjoy the rod,good luck!

I pretty much disregard the weight of the soft plastic itself 90% of the time unless it's something super salty like a Senko.  Most of my jig and T-rig fishing is done on a MH Rage that handles everything from about 1/4-1oz pretty well.

Usually Loomis underrates their rods. 

 

Everyone likes to fish things a certain way. For me I will only use a weight up to where the rod starts to feel labored. If your rod is loading up under a normal retrieve detecting subtle changes becomes a lot harder. There is the flip side of going to light that creates the same problem. You have to find what your rod is capable of.

Casting weight ratings are intended to be total weight cast. Like all ratings they are subjective. The sweet spot usually lies near the midrange but only casting will tell you for sure. 

I never even look at lure ratings on any rod.  I grew up through the broom stick era so I almost always have more rod in my hand than needed.  I know what feels right and what doesn't, for me, just based on experience.  And when I had no experience I still knew what felt right, just based on common sense. 

There isn't any substitute for trial & error in this instance.   You've just got to try different set ups & find out what works for you.  Depending on how sensitive you are, there is a difference between how quarter ounce tungsten and quarter ounce lead feels.   Different baits will catch the water differently - which will affect feel.  Line size will make more of a difference than you might think and so will the weight of the reel that you will be using.  If this is going to be your only jig/worm rod, make your best guess and go with it - change it out if you're unsatisfied with the performance.   But since you asked, there are quite a few variables to consider.  By all means, don't feel locked in to my advice.  A long time ago I made the decision that if I wanted to fish a different line test/bait weight/presentation/whatever,  the easiest thing for me to do would be to pick up another rod that was already rigged up.  I carry a dozen or so jig/worm rods with me most of the times I go fishing, and that is to cover my normal everyday situations.  If I got south more and fished LOZ and Truman and Stockton and Table Rock more often, I would have a dedicated 3/4 oz football jig rod and a Biffle Bug rod in the boat all the time - with I don't - but they do make the traveling team when I go south.