If you are going to use jigging spoons, medium heavy to heavy rods are a must. You will need a rod with some “backbone” in order to be able to handle heavier jigging spoons, as well as to give you the power required, to set the hook. A wimpy rod just won’t do it - as the saying goes “never send a boy to do a man’s job”.

Generally speaking, it doesn’t matter if you use bait casting rods or spinning rods, although in either case, 1-piece rods are preferred. They respond much better to the bite and will give you that extra “back bone” required.

War Eagle Jigging Spoon

Going hand-in-hand with the rod is your line. 6 - 8 lb. test line just doesn’t cut it. You will need heavier line which will give you your hook setting power, as well as take the abuse and stresses created on your line, while vertical jigging.10 – 12 lb. line is an absolute minimum. This will accommodate jigging spoon weights up to a 1 1/2 oz. 14 - 20 lb. test line will handle up to 3 oz. jigging spoons. From here, just continue with heavier line for heavier jigging spoons.

The key is not to be shy - go heavy.If you are concerned that the fish may be spooked by the heavier line, then just use fluorocarbon line as this is virtually invisible to fish.When using jigging spoons, the reel is important, but not as important as your rod & your line.

As long as your reel has the instant anti-reverse feature and a good drag system, you should be good-to-go.O.K., now you’re ready to start catching fish using jigging spoons.

My next article will give you tips and techniques, as well as when/where to use jigging spoons.

Until next time, good fishin,
Ivo