How to Rig a Jig Head for Fishing
Jig heads are fishing hooks of various size and shape which have a molded piece of lead attached to the shank just below the eye. The lead is available in different shapes, from round to oval and even flat. Differing lead shapes will cause the hook and attached bait to perform differently under water. Rigging a jig head is typically a straightforward process.
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Instructions
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1
Attach the jig-head hook to the fishing line using a clinch knot. Pass the tag, or loose, end of the line through the eye of the hook so that 3 to 4 inches of line extends from the jig head. Wrap the tag end around the main line by twisting for six or seven turns. Pass the tag end back down and through the small eye formed by the line just above the hook eye. Moisten the line and pull tight.
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2
Determine what trailer bait to use based on species of fish, weather and water conditions, whether there is brush and structure in the area and the time of year. All of these factors contribute to determine shape, size and color of the bait to be used. For example, a chartreuse Trick Worm is a good choice for early summer, around structure, and when the water is murky or stained.
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Rig the jig head by inserting the point of the hook through the tip of the bait. Typically, the bait will be plastic, but there are some natural pork-rind baits on the market, too. Push the hook down for 1/2 to 3/4 inch.
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Push the hook point out to the side by following the curve of the hook bend. Slide the bait around the bend and up the shank until the tip of the bait is against the lead jig head.
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Turn the hook so that it is pointed toward the bait and reinsert into the body of the bait. Make adjustments to the bait on the hook so that the body of the bait sits naturally on the hook shank.
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Tips & Warnings
Add rubber or hair skirts to the jig head hook by first sliding the skirt over the point, bend and shank up to the lead head. Then attach the bait below the skirt.
Use caution when working with hooks as they are typically honed very sharp from the manufacturer.
