How to Use a Lead Head Jig
- 1). Consider the type of fish you will be targeting. In particular, think about the size of the fish's mouth. A jig intended for largemouth bass would not work on bluegill, because bluegill have tiny mouths. A jig sized to catch bluegill would be lost inside the bass's enormous mouth, if it bothered to take any notice of the jig in the first place.
- 2). Consider the area you will be fishing. In general, jigs with narrow heads will fall faster than jigs with wide heads. This can be an advantage or disadvantage, depending on where you are fishing and for what species of fish. In general, the slower the fall, the better. But if the fish are deep, you want the jig to fall quickly to get down to the correct depth. The round head jig is a good compromise for most situations.
- 3). Select the color of the jig head and body. Some species of fish are known to be attracted to jigs of certain colors. Other species like a broad range of colors, and change their minds based on factors such as light level and water clarity. Try different colors until you find the one that the fish are biting on.
- 4). Dress the jig. Some lead head jigs come already dressed. Hair, feather, and some plastic jigs are sold this way. All you need to do is pick the size and color, then tie the jig on. Most plastic jig bodies are sold separately. Insert the point of the hook through the front of the jig body, run it through the thick part of the jig and push the point out through the plastic so the body covers the entire hook. Most jigs work best when the body is straight on the hook.
- 5). Tie the jig on, using a Palomar knot. Double up a loop of line and push the loop through the jig eye. Double the loop back and tie a loose overhand knot with the loop and main line, then insert the jig through the loop. Lubricate the knot with saliva, then pull the knot tight.
- 6). Cast the jig out and retrieve it slowly. You can vary your retrieve and make the jig hop by twitching the rod tip. Experiment with different retrieve speeds.
