How to Hook Minnows When Jigging

Jigging refers to the practice of fishing with a jig, which is a type of fishing lure consisting of a lead weight, or "sinker," a hook and a soft rubber or silicone body. Live bait is attached to the hook and the jig is moved in a jerky, vertical manner in the water to attract fish. Minnows are a popular live bait to use with a jig, but should be hooked on the jig in a particular manner to ensure that the minnow remains alive as long as possible and stays attached to the hook.

Things You'll Need

  • Jig
  • Minnow
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pick up a minnow from your bait bucket.

    • 2

      Squeeze the minnow behind the gills with your thumb and forefinger until the mouth opens.

    • 3

      Insert the jig's hook into the minnow's mouth as far as possible.

    • 4

      Slide the tip of the hook out through the top of the minnow's head. Make the hook's exit as centered as possible to ensure that the minnow's body is straight in line with the hook. Centering the minnow on the hook eliminates drag and decreases the chance that the minnow will slip off of the hook when the jig is in the water.