Last week I ordered a few of these 1/2oz Keitech football jigs along with some terminal tackle. I knew these things were finesse jigs, but I had no idea how small and light wire the hooks were.

 

What rod would you throw these on? On one hand they're 1/2oz and might be a stretch for something like my 852S, but I'm afraid that my "regular" jig setup of 55lb braid to a 14lb fluoro leader on an 853C might be too much for that small hook.

 

Would you go heavier in line, lighter in rod? Or the other way round?

Both rods will be good, I think.  My consideration would be the 55lb braid.  When I throw them alot in the winter, I use a Powell 714  with 12 lb sniper. 

I love those jigs...You can use spinning or casting gear.  That little hook requires very little pressure to set, so as long as the rod can handle the weight without losing sensitivity you should be ok.  A smooth drag is really important as well.  A choppy drag can cause issues with keeping fish pinned or bending the hook.  Heavy line can impede action and really isn't needed.  If you have a rod that you like to use for shakey heads or heavy ned rigs give that a try.  Braid works well as long as your drag is set good. 

I love those too, I'm using a Champion 744 atm for football jigs. I use braid to leader (usually 40lb braid to 10lb leader for those jigs) but i back my drag off a bit more than usual when fishing them. 

8 hours ago, MassYak85 said:

...but i back my drag off a bit more than usual when fishing them. 

x2. Great jigs and I usually throw them on an 893 with 10# Sniper using more of a reel/sweepset instead of crossing their eyes as they say.