The best way to learn this lure is to go fishing only with a jig. While a jig can be used anywhere, it is an object bait. The jig works best in cover--the heavier, the better. You need to watch the line as soon as the bait hits the water. A lot of bites occur as it falls. If the line jumps, you feel a tick or extra weight, set the hook immediately. Get a feel for the weight of the jig as it moves on the bottom. To me, a bottom bite feels like a leaf has gotten on the jig. Set the hook on any feel or change in the lure as most are light bites. I guarantee you that Denny Brauer has set the hook on a million "ghost" fish. If you try to decide if a fish is on the line, you will miss it. The two best ways to fish it are the lift and drop and the drag. Imagine in your mind a craw hopping about 2 in. along the bottom. This is what you are trying to imitate. Your rod is held in a 10 o'clock posiition and the rod movement is very small. Most bites will happen on that little fall so be prepared to set the hook when you tighten on your line and feel a little extra weight. Dragging a jig is easy. Slow drag across the bottom until a change in the lure---then set the hook.
Jig fishing is about mental images. Your mind has to imagine what the lure is doing as you fish it. Picture the jig moving along the bottom and get a feel for it's weight. Over time, the jig's motion and feel will always be in your mind while fishing it.This helps a lot in feeling that slight change in the jig that signals a bite.
Good Fishing!
Reply With Quote
