This week, I would like to share with you some key tips & techniques to consider while jigging which will definitely help you catch more fish - regardless of the species you are after.

The first key point to consider is to ensure that you do not make long casts - rather, you should make more casts of shorter distance (anywhere from 8 to 12 yards is perfect). This will limit the amount of line you have out & give you more control.

The next thing to keep in mind is that the fish will hit your jig while it is on the way down. So it is very important to let your jig fall to the bottom, on a “controlled slack”. This means, as the jig is making its way to the bottom, it should not be on a tight line, nor on a very loose line - it should be almost border line tight.

A Tube Jig

This will allow your jig to fall straight down, which helps create more of a natural presentation. While it is on its way down, watch your line closely, right where it enters the water. Look for any sudden movements in your line. For example, you may see your line actually jump to one side, or you may see it “twitch”, or perhaps you may see your line stop falling. These are all indications of a hit & you should set the hook immediately. If you are not watching your line, you will be missing hits & the fish could simply spit your bait leaving you out of luck.

Many times, you will “see” the bite by watching your line, as compared to “feeling” the bite. Line watching and having it go down on a “controlled slack” are the key to catching more fish.

Once you have mastered this technique, then you can try varying your retrieves. A simple lift of the rod, then letting your jig drop to the bottom is best, but sometimes you may need to “trigger” a bite. In these cases, you can “rip” the jig back to the boat using fast, hard snaps of your rod, letting your jig fall to the bottom after each hard snap.

For real finicky fish, try dragging your jig right on the bottom & pausing periodically. In this case, the fish will usually hit while you are dragging the jig.

In summary, use short casts, and always watch your line: the fish will hit your jig on the way down. Should you detect anything different in your line, always set the hook!

Until next time, good fishin,
Ivo