Choosing and Using Jig Fishing Lures

These jig fishing lures have a variety of sizes, shapes, colors and weights but are of two basic types:

• The bucktail jig that has a lead head molded to a hook and a covering of hair-like material; it can be rigged with bait if required
• A vertical jig, otherwise known as a butterfly jig or a speed jig, that is a long and slender piece of metal with hooks attached that is designed to cut through the water; weights can be balanced around the center for a slow drop with sideways movement or towards the tail for relatively fast drop with little movement.

Large fish often remain near the bottom during the day and so the aim is to get the lure to the bottom as quickly as possible, meaning a vertical jig will generally be more productive in deep water. Heavy jig lures will drop faster and remain more vertical, even in strong currents, but require greater effort and are more difficult to handle. Lighter lures need less physical effort but may drop too slowly and be taken out of position by the current.

Once the lure is at the required depth, your technique is crucial if you are to achieve the best results. Unlike many lures that are intended to move horizontally through the water, jig fishing lures are designed to achieve a vertical, jerky motion to attract fish.

After you’ve cast out, wait until the jig hook reaches the bottom. Then snap your wrist so the rod tip comes up quickly before letting the lure drop back to the bottom. Repeat the process until a fish swallows the lure, then set the hook so the fish is tethered and can be reeled in.

Since the jigs are weighted so they reach the bottom, a hook set that is harder than normal is often needed. This overcomes the additional weight and ensures there is enough momentum to pierce the hook into the fish’s mouth.

Best Techniques and Lures to Achieve Success

We at Nomad Tackle supply a large number of fishing jigging lures in various styles, weights, sizes, shapes and colors. You’ll find the best for your needs. A sensitive rod is often best because it will enable you to better keep in contact with the lure and detect when a strike is made. You can explore our range of jigging rods if you require one for your needs.

Jigging is one of the most active tackle fishing methods and can be the most satisfying. To perfect your technique, you can try jigging the lure straight up and down or jig it horizontally as you reel the line in. With an established technique and our high-quality lures, you’ll soon be pulling in the fish.

In the meantime, feel free to also check out our saltwater trolling lures or jerkbait lures if that's what you're interested in.