Jigging
Jigging is one of the most versatile presentations in saltwater, from bouncing a bucktail on the bottom to speed jigging a metal through deep water. The lift and fall imparts action that mimics dying baitfish, and the reaction strike often comes on the drop. It is physical, engaging fishing that puts you in constant contact with your lure.
Effective year round, often best when bait schools stack up
How it works
- 1Drop your jig to the target depth, whether that is the bottom or a marked school in the water column.
- 2Impart action with a rhythmic lift of the rod followed by a controlled drop, keeping some contact as it falls.
- 3Watch and feel the fall closely, since most strikes come as the jig drops.
- 4Match your jigging cadence to the fish, from a slow lift and flutter to fast, aggressive speed jigging.
- 5Set the hook and keep steady pressure when you feel weight or the line jumps, then work the fish up.
- 6Vary your retrieve depth and speed until you find what the fish want that day.
Gear
A responsive jigging rod matched to a fast retrieve reel and braid gives you the sensitivity and lift you need. Carry a range of jig styles and weights, from bucktails to metal speed jigs, to cover different depths and moods.
Tips
- • Braid transmits the subtle tap of a fish hitting on the drop far better than stretchy mono.
- • When fish ignore a fast jig, slow down and let it flutter. Finicky fish often eat on the pause.
- • Assist hooks on speed jigs improve your hookup ratio compared to a single tail hook.
Knots to know
FAQ
What is the difference between speed jigging and slow pitch jigging?
Speed jigging uses a fast, aggressive retrieve to trigger reaction strikes from active pelagics. Slow pitch jigging uses a slower, more deliberate action to tempt bottom fish and less aggressive species. Each shines in different situations.
Why do so many fish hit a jig on the drop?
A jig fluttering down looks like a wounded or dying baitfish, which is an easy meal. Predators key on that vulnerable fall, so staying in contact and watching your line as the jig sinks is critical.