Fishing jigs are among the most popular of game fish lures. Coming in a wide range of sizes, shapes and colors, jigs are very versatile and are capable of handling different fishing conditions. Relatively easy to work and effective for a wide range of game fish species, anglers would do well to have a good selection of fishing jigs in their arsenal of artificial lures.
Design
The jig starts with a single fishing hook with a heavy lead weight molded around the shank of the hook just behind the eyelet. This lead weight can be round, oval or football-shaped or can be formed in the shape of a fish head. Often brightly colored, jig heads frequently have eye spots painted on them. Sometimes, jig heads have a cluster of bristles that extend out from the head toward the point of the hook, acting as a weed guard.
Attachments
The jig head can be adorned with any number of plastic baits. These can include skirts, plastic grubs, worms, crayfish and other soft lures that can be easily threaded onto the hook of the jig. Trailers---such as rattles, spinners, pork rinds and others---can also be used to make a jig more attractive to game fish.
Weight
Jig heads are available in a wide range of weights and sizes. Smaller weights are frequently used for bream, crappies and other small game fish. Medium-sized jigs can be used when fishing for trout, perch and smallmouth bass. Larger sizes can be used to catch largemouth bass and other predatory fish, such as pike, walleye and muskie. Generally, it's a good idea to use the lightest weight jig possible, depending upon fishing conditions.
Colors
Jigs come in a wide range of colors. In clearer waters, white, green and chartreuse jigs work better. For murky or conditions, try using blue, black, purple or brown jigs. One advantage of jigs is that the plastic bait, skirt or trailers can be easily changed from one color to another very quickly.
Uses
Jigs are more frequently used in areas where a weedless lure is required. Most jigs are designed specifically to turn the hook point upward, helping to prevent it from being snagged when retrieved. When using jigs, try working them through heavy weeds, submerged brush or wood cover, rocky areas and other places where other traditional lures, such as crank baits and jerk baits, will wind up getting hung up.
Fishing Technique
When using a jig, a cast-drop-and-retrieve method often works best. Jigs are good for working in shallow water, often 6 feet or less, and will often produce fish before they even hit the bottom. If the jig does reach bottom, allow it to rest momentarily. Fish will often pick up a jig that is laying motionless. If there is still no response from the fish you are targeting, jiggle the jig and then let it lay motionless again. Repeat this several times. If a fish has not taking your bait by then, reel in and cast to another area. Jigs can also be dropped straight into the water from boats, docks, piers or other structures. Work the jig up and down in the water column, with short strokes to draw the attention of game fish in the area.
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