Jigging is a highly active fishing method when done, at least in comparison to using other artificial lures which all require you to be active one way or another.
A jig generally consists of a lead sinker with a hook, usually made of a metal substance, molded into it. The metal substance which was melted into liquid and poured into a mold to shape its head and collar. The type of metal used for the hook can vary, but most are made of lead, as it gives the lure its weight, or tungsten, which requires more precision and control as it is heavier than lead, but also much more environmentally friendly.
Jigs are meant to create a jerky, vertical motion by having you snap or pop the rod tip quickly, imitating different fish such as injured baitfish that might attract game fish looking for a meal.
For many professional anglers, jigs are very flexible and versatile, as they can be used in both saltwater and freshwater fishing. Use of jigs can differ as well: Most anglers jiggle jigs up and down for the vertical motion that the jig is best known for, but you can also cast it out and jiggle it horizontally as you reel the lure back to you. Jigs also work with or without live fishing bait. Sometimes, the shape, size, and color of the jig itself is sufficient enough to attract game fish, but you may also want to add live bait anyways for that extra touch.
Jig Parts
There are multiple factors that affect the lure. The hook, collar, weight, color and even the material it is stuffed with all play a role in how it can be used, which body of water it is best suited for, and what type of fish it will attract.
Jig Hook
The long metallic part of the jig, it is where the fish should bite, and where the bait is rigged. The hook is bent towards the end on the shank, like in a sharper J-shape. The bent shape of the hook matters in determining eye placement as well as the movement of the jig on the water.
The length of the hook matters as well when using bait: live minnows are best used for shorter shanks. On the other hand, worms, tubes, or other lengthy creatures are favorites for longer shanks
Jig Collar
The jig collar is placed directly behind the jig head, and the type of collar matters in what kind of bait the jig can hold. For instance, Barbed collars can hold plastic baits, thanks to the small hook it has. Straight collars meanwhile help in attaching its cover, which means the likes of hair and feathers.
Jig Cover
Jigs of all kinds are decorated with things like feathers or hair, and no, it is not just to make it look prettier. It is supposed to help the jig look much more attractive to game fish, by making it imitate baitfish, crawfish, or leeches in terms of looks. Plus, it adds a little bit of weight to the jig too.
Jig Color
As with all other lure types, the color of your jig matters as well, and depends a lot on the type of environment you are in. Weather, fishing conditions, the color of the water, all of these is important in masking your jig to make it look like a game fish’s prey as much as possible.
This, however, would mean that you will need multiple jigs for best results. Though simply starting with basic colors, such as red, black, brown, white, and yellow should be enough to get you properly acquainted. For finishes, jigs have multiple of those too, such as natural, metallic, and two-toned. It is best to have multiple ready before you start fishing, and especially if it is a new environment for you.
Jig Weight
Believe it or not, the weight of your jig also matters. In fact, it may be the part of your jig that matters the most.
The weight is heavily reliant on the type of fish you are aiming for, as well as the depth of the water you will be fishing in. You would also need to consider the speed of the water current as well as wind velocity.
A heavier jig would be needed for deeper water depths you are aiming for, but it should not be too heavy, as the jig might sink too fast and spook the fish underwater or not give them enough time to react before it stops.
Wrapping Up
Jigs are versatile hooks that many anglers, new or pro, choose thanks to how effective they are in catching many fish.
Like most lures, however, they require a bit of skill to use. Jiggling your jig vertically might seem like a simple task, but you still need to entice the fish and make it want to go on the attack.
There are many types of jigs out there of all shapes and sizes, and you will likely need a lot of them, especially if you do not always fish in the same area. It is up to you find the jig/s best suited for your fishing needs.