Hairjigs are a big deal early in the season at my home waters here in CT (especially candlewood). They usually win the tourneys in April. I have never caught a fish on a hair jig! I need some help...

What rod length and action should I be using? Line? (4 lb FC?) Spinning gear is a must - does it matter if it's a larger (3000) or smaller (2000 series) reel? Most of my spinning reels are 2500. They say 1/8 oz is the way to go, But I'm not used to throwing something that light without a shakeyhead plastic or small trailer attached. I'm guessing that dragging slowly through rough structure and cover is the technique but maybe someone has a different approach? Different types of hair have different types of action... It can be a bit overwhelming! The only thing I'm confident in is my choice of color -- black/ dark colors ... Any help would be appreciated!

My favorite is a NorthStar custom baits 1/4 hair jig in okachobee craw. NorthStar also offers an awesome trailer for the hair jig..they go together like pb & j.

As far as your equipment...I like a 7' mh f casting, but spinning tackle with this technique is also a great way to go. I am dying to get my hands on a 2500 stradic ci4! You will love that reel. Line choice depends on what type of water you are fishing. I like to go with either a 12 or 15 lb invisix line, depending on whether I'm fishing docks or not

I'd recommend a long(7-7.5') medium power spinning rod, a medium sized reel like a 2500, and 6 lb. copolymer line. Yo Zuri Hybrid Ultra Soft or P-Line CXX fits the bill here. Hairs jigs are a cold water finesse technique and you don't want to overwork the bait or deaden it's action with heavy line. This tackle will work well for jigs in the 1/8 - 5/16 oz range, but if you're fishing deep and need 3/8 oz or more to get the bait down to the fish, casting tackle might be your best bet.  Using the lightest tackle you can get away with seems to provoke the best possible action from a hair jig.

Try this link http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1283401104

Hair jigs are good year around IF you tie them on and fish with them.

The type rod should be match to the weight of the jig and your preference between spinning and bait casting. 1/8 and less a spinning rod/reel is a good choice, 3/16 or heavier you can easily cast with a bait caster. Any rod you fish a Texas rigged worm will work for jigs under 1/2 oz depending on the cover you are fishing.

Hair jigs are not any different than living rubber or silicone skirted jigs; match the line to conditions you are fishing. Deep rocky structured lakes with sparse cover you can use lighter line; 6-8 lb for 1/8 or less and 10-14 for 3/16 to 1/2.

Do not use oily or greasy attractants with hair jigs; they will prevent the hair from breathing or moving properly. Use trailers with impregnated scent or pork.

Most hair jigs are home made, commercial hair jigs are usually tied tight to the hook shank with little flare.

Good luck.

Tom

Try this link http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1283401104

Hey thanks for posting that.  I'm going to have to make an order for some of those great jigs, especially your signature jig.

http://www.jensenjigs.com/frame.html

This is great stuff.... Thanks a lot!

black hair jigs to imitate....

Hellgrammites?

I'd recommend a long(7-7.5') medium power spinning rod, a medium sized reel like a 2500, and 6 lb. copolymer line. Yo Zuri Hybrid Ultra Soft or P-Line CXX fits the bill here. Hairs jigs are a cold water finesse technique and you don't want to overwork the bait or deaden it's action with heavy line. This tackle will work well for jigs in the 1/8 - 5/16 oz range, but if you're fishing deep and need 3/8 oz or more to get the bait down to the fish, casting tackle might be your best bet. Using the lightest tackle you can get away with seems to provoke the best possible action from a hair jig.

Sounds right to me, too!

8-)