How to Jig for Bluefish

Bluefish are a popular saltwater game fish that anglers attempt to catch from along the surf and from piers and boats. Smaller bluefish weighing under five pounds or so are referred to as snappers and can be caught up through late summer from beaches and piers. Larger bluefish are commonly caught further out in open waters from boats. Jigging is a popular method of catching bluefish and can be highly productive when done properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Medium-heavy saltwater rod with matched reel and line
  • Diamond head jig with trailer tube and hook
  • Gaff
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Select a diamond head jig with a trailing brightly colored tube and hook attached. Choose the size of the jig and color or tube based on location, fishing conditions and personal preference.

    • 2

      Drop the jig into the water away from the boat. Allow the diamond head jig to sink down into the water until it nears the bottom if possible.

    • 3

      Turn the handle of the reel to retrieve the jig back up through the water. Use a moderate to fast retrieve to pull the jig back to the surface.

    • 4

      Drop the line and jig into the water once again. Allow the jig to settle deep down in the water and retrieve it once again to the surface.

    • 5

      Raise the tip of the rod when a bluefish strikes and reel down on the line to set the hook. Keep the rod tip up and the line tight as you play the fish in toward the boat to a point where it can be gaffed for landing.