Jigheads are as much a part of fishing as needle-nose pliers and spinnerbaits. Often, a ball head jig combined with live bait or rigged with a plastic grub, minnow, or worm is a surefire, fish-yielding presentation, but experienced anglers know that there’s more to it. In fact, a jighead’s weight can make a huge difference in how many fish you catch, and today we’ll explore how.
Jig weight has a big influence on the speed at which your bait falls, which will influence your bait’s appeal. For instance, some days, fish will only strike a jig that’s dropping very slowly. Some days, you may need to go with the lightest jighead you can get away with while still maintaining a feel of the presentation, while other days it may be the opposite.
A jig’s weight is just one variable that influences how quickly your bait sinks. Its shape will also play a significant role. Streamlined jigheads sink faster than bulky ones, due to their aerodynamic design. Furthermore, the weight, size, and shape of the bait you’re using also influences drop speed. For example, a creature bait with more plastic appendages will sink more slowly. Finally, the thinner the line you use, the less drag you’ll face, and the quicker the bait will dive.
This season, I suggest picking up a few extra jigheads in weights you currently don’t own and trying them with your favorite tactics. Odds are you’ll experience a few instances where going a little lighter, or a touch heavier, will draw more strikes. Also, try to keep a reasonable assortment of jigheads in varying shapes, such as wobbleheads and bullets.
Changing your presentation can mean much more than simply switching from a spinnerbait to a Texas-rigged worm. You can change presentations within the realm of soft plastics simply by switching your jighead with one of a different shape or weight. You’d be surprised at how much this subtle difference can make, and even more surprised at the strikes you’ll draw!