How to Fish Using a Vertical Jig

Lead-head jigs are one of the most versatile fishing lures on the market. They can be fished in any depth of water and for nearly any fish species. In addition, anglers can attach a piece of live or artificial bait to them, and fish them at any point in the water column. One method for fishing with jigs is known as vertical jigging, which involves presenting the jig in a vertical fashion to fish in confined areas.

Instructions

    • 1

      Load a six- to seven-foot, medium-action fishing rod with six pound test fishing line. Tie a one-quarter ounce lead-head jig to the end of the fishing line using a Palomar knot.

    • 2

      Attach a piece of artificial or live bait to the jig. Plastic, three-inch grubs work well, as do leeches, minnows and night crawlers. Experiment with baits until you find one that the fish bite on.

    • 3

      Locate areas likely to concentrate fish, such as drop-offs, deep weed edges, and the sides of humps and reefs.

    • 4

      Drop the jig over the side of the boat and let it fall to the bottom, or to the part of the water column where the fish are holding.

    • 5

      Lift the rod tip up and then drop it to its original position. This causes the jig to rise and fall. Experiment with how aggressively you lift the jig and how far you lift it. When you catch a fish, replicate the presentation until the fish quit biting, then begin experimenting again.

    • 6

      Set the hook into the fish's mouth by firmly lifting your rod tip up.