Jigging

[Guest]

Hey all, With opener just around the corner (4 MORE DAYS!) i'm starting to think or different set-ups i could use. I want to try some jigging, but i'm not very experienced with it. Any tips on jigging, or any walleye fishing, especially for this weekend, would be greatly appreciated.

------------------
Ida_Man_03

[yellowsubmarine]

Next to the dupont spinner this is the easiest way to catch fish. Use just enough jig to get you to the depth you need to be at. As with any other lure, don't be afraid to try different colors. I like to keep the tip of my finger on the closed for better sensitivity, very similar to trolling lindy rigs, only you don't need to have the bail open. This weekend there will be a pretty good chance you'll be catching walleye right off the bottom, or atleast thats where I'm going to start. Most walleyes I've caught jigging seem to hit on the fall, so when you feel the tension on your next jig, let 'em have it. If you do end up fishing suspended fish, a bobber stop on your line at water level is a good way to keep yourself in the strike zone. Also, I like to tie my jigs on a leader about three or four feet from a barrel swivel. The swivel will greatly reduce line twist which is very common when jigging. Good luck this weekend and rip some lips.

[Guest]

Hey thanks for the tips. That's excactly what i was thinking about catching the fish on the bottom. There isn't going to be that much activity the way this weekend opener is predicted. From my experiences with jigs, i've learned that 1/8 are possibly the most vertile. Do you think that jig size really does matter. How do you rig up the jig, twister with a crappie minnow? Good idea with the leader on the end, because i know that i've had troubles with my line snarling up before too, thanks again.

[yellowsubmarine]

I don't think jig size is nearly important as some people make it sound. Just don't use on the size of a golf ball unless you're fishing really deep. The only reason it makes a difference is a larger jig will sink faster, which gives the fish less time to hit it. 1/8 is good if you can work it. I'll be fishing in about 10-15ft of water Saturday, just like last year. I will fish with anything from 1/8 to 1/2. I've caught fish on all of them, even at these shallow depths. Like I said, my opinion is it just doesn't make that much difference. As far as rigging, I'm just starting to get into tubes and other plastics this year, but I've had a ton of success in years past with just a plain gumball jig and minnow, usually hoooked thru the mouth and out the top of the head or thru both lips. Good luck, be safe, don't be one of the a-holes at the launch, bring your rain gear, and last but not least, rip some lips!

[This message has been edited by yellowsubmarine (edited 05-07-2003).]

[Northlander]

If you have trouble feeling things with smaller jigs try some superline. Fireline and Power pro are tough to beet. Set your drag so it releases a bit on hook set and you will do fine. Try the 2 pound diameter 8 pound strength. You will be glad you did.