Are you looking for a new way to catch more bass? One of the best ways to increase your chances of success is by using different types of jigs. Bass fishing jigs come in a variety of styles, sizes, and colours, and each one is designed for a specific type of fishing situation. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of bass fishing jigs, covering everything from the different types of jigs to the best ways to use them.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is a Bass Fishing Jig?
- Different Types of Bass Fishing Jigs
- Football Jig
- Swim Jig
- Flipping Jig
- Finesse Jig
- Skipping Jig
- How to Choose the Right Jig for Bass Fishing
- Water Clarity and Depth
- Cover and Structure
- Time of Day and Season
- Techniques for Using Bass Fishing Jigs
- Jigging
- Pitching
- Flipping
- Skipping
- Best Colours for Bass Fishing Jigs
- Best Bass Fishing Jigs on the Market
- JonStar Football Jig
- Chatterbait Balleo
- Tips for Fishing with Bass Fishing Jigs
- Common Mistakes When Using Bass Fishing Jigs
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is a Bass Fishing Jig?
A bass fishing jig is a fishing lure that imitates a crawfish, baitfish, or other types of prey. It consists of a weighted head and a hook, often covered in a rubber skirt or other type of material that gives the jig a more realistic appearance. Jigs are versatile lures that can be used in a variety of fishing situations, making them a popular choice for anglers all over the world.
Different Types of Bass Fishing Jigs
There are several different types of bass fishing jigs, each designed for a specific type of fishing situation. Here are some of the most common types of jigs used by anglers today:
Football Jig
A football jig is a jig with a wide, flat head that resembles a football. The design of the head allows the jig to be dragged along the bottom of the water, making it an ideal choice for fishing in rocky or hard-bottomed areas.
Swim Jig
A swim jig is a jig with a smaller, more streamlined head that is designed to be fished in open water. The design of the head allows the jig to swim through the water like a baitfish, making it an effective lure for fishing in clear water.
Flipping Jig
A flipping jig is a jig with a compact, heavy head that is designed for fishing in heavy cover. The weight of the head allows the jig to penetrate through the cover and reach the fish below.
Finesse Jig
A finesse jig is a smaller, lighter jig that is designed for fishing in clear or heavily pressured water. The lighter weight of the jig allows it to be fished more slowly and subtly, making it an effective choice for finicky bass.
Skipping Jig
A skipping jig is a jig with a flat bottom that is designed to skip along the surface of the water. This makes it an ideal choice for fishing under docks or other types of overhead cover.
How to Choose the Right Jig for Bass Fishing
Choosing the right jig for bass fishing can make all the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right jig for your fishing situation:
Water Clarity and Depth
The clarity and depth of the water you’re fishing in can have a big impact on the type of jig you choose. In clear water, you’ll want to use a finesse jig or swim jig that has a more natural appearance. In murky water, a football jig or flipping jig that creates a lot of vibration and noise can be more effective.
Cover and Structure
The type of cover and structure you’re fishing in can also dictate the type of jig you use. If you’re fishing in heavy cover, a flipping jig that can punch through weeds and brush is a good choice. If you’re fishing around rocks or other hard-bottomed areas, a football jig is a better option.
Time of Day and Season
The time of day and season can also affect your choice of the jig. In the early morning or late evening when the water is cooler, a finesse jig may be more effective. During the heat of the day in the summer months, a swim jig or football jig can be more successful.
Techniques for Using Bass Fishing Jigs
There are several different techniques for using bass fishing jigs, each designed to imitate a different type of prey or trigger a different type of strike. Here are some of the most common techniques used by anglers:
Jigging
Jigging is the most common technique used with bass fishing jigs. It involves lifting the rod tip and then letting the jig fall back down to the bottom, imitating the action of a crawfish or other prey.
Pitching
Pitching is a technique used for fishing in close quarters, such as under docks or around trees. It involves pitching the jig with an underhand motion, allowing it to fall straight down to the bottom.
Flipping
Flipping is similar to pitching, but it involves using a more forceful motion to get the jig deeper into heavy cover. It’s a great technique for targeting bass in areas where other lures can’t reach.
Skipping
Skipping is a technique used for fishing under docks or other overhead cover. It involves casting the jig low and fast, allowing it to skip along the surface of the water and reach the target area.
Best Colours for Bass Fishing Jigs
The colour of your bass fishing jig can also have a big impact on your success. Here are some of the best colours to consider:
Green Pumpkin
Green pumpkin is a popular colour for bass fishing jigs, as it mimics the colour of many types of prey in the water.
Black and Blue
Black and blue is a great colour combination for fishing in murky water, as it creates a strong silhouette that can be seen by the fish.
Brown and Orange
Brown and orange is a good colour combination for fishing in clear water, as it mimics the colour of crayfish and other prey.
Best Bass Fishing Jigs on the Market
There are many different types of bass fishing jigs on the market, but here are some of the best:
JonStar Football Jig
The JonStar Football Jig is a versatile jig that can be fished in a variety of situations. It has a weed guard that allows it to be fished in heavy cover, and the head design allows it to be dragged along the bottom of the water.
Chatterbait Balleo
The Chatterbait Balleo itself has plenty of action and vibration for attracting bass, yet you can add more bulk, buoyancy, and action to the lure with a plastic trailer attached to the bladed jig.
Conclusion
Bass fishing jigs are an essential part of any angler’s tackle box, offering versatility and effectiveness in a wide range of fishing situations. When selecting a jig, consider factors like water clarity, cover and structure, and time of day and season. Use different techniques like jigging, pitching, flipping, and skipping to imitate different types of prey and trigger different types of strikes. And don’t forget to choose the right colour and type of jig for your specific fishing situation.
FAQs
- What is the best type of jig for fishing in clear water?
- A finesse jig or swim jig that has a more natural appearance is best for fishing in clear water.
- What is the best colour for a bass fishing jig?
- Green pumpkin is a popular colour for bass fishing jigs, as it mimics the colour of many types of prey in the water.
- What is flipping in bass fishing?
- Flipping is a technique used for fishing in heavy cover, involving a more forceful motion to get the jig deeper into the cover.
- What is the best type of jig for fishing around rocks?
- A football jig is a better option for fishing around rocks or other hard-bottomed areas.
- What is the Chatterbait?
- The Chatterbait is a swim jig that combines the action of a jig with the vibration of a spinner bait, mimicking the action of a fleeing baitfish. Bass fishing is a popular sport enjoyed by anglers all over the world. It requires skill, patience, and the right equipment to be successful. One of the most important pieces of equipment in a bass angler’s arsenal is the fishing jig. Jigs come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours, each designed for specific fishing situations. In this article, we’ll take a look at various bass fishing jigs and their uses.
