The Best Rod & Reel Combination for Shaky Head Fishing
Shaky head plastic worm fishing is a method of finesse fishing that bass fishermen often use. Shaky head anglers use spinning equipment and light fishing lines, and the technique is especially productive during cold fronts or other times when bass are not feeding aggressively. Fishing the shaky head involves long casts and retrieving the rig slowly along the bottom.
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Shaky Head Rig
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The shaky head rig itself consists of a jig ranging in size from 1/16 ounce to 1/2 ounce and a 4- to 6-inch straight or sickle-tailed plastic worm. Some shaky head jigs include lure keepers that extend below the head of the jig and help hold the worm in place. Whether the jig includes the keeper or not, thread the worm onto the jig in the Texas rig style (see Resources).
Fishing Line
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Since shaky head fishing is a finesse technique, 6- to 8-pound fishing line is best. Light line allows the rig to appear more natural under the water, and also reduces the chance that fish will see the line. Six-pound line is a good choice for shaky head jigs up to about 1/4 ounce in size. Use 8-pound line for heavier jigs. Some anglers prefer fishing shaky heads with monofilament line, while others prefer fluorocarbon, which has less stretch and is invisible underwater.
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Fishing Rod
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Shaky head fishing relies on long casts, so spinning rods from 6 feet 6 inches long to 7 feet long are best. Identify a spinning rod by checking for a trigger that hangs below the handle. Spinning rods do not have this. Medium-action spinning rods are best because they have soft tips but enough backbone to set the hook. Make sure the rod can handle 6- or 8-pound fishing line by checking the writing on the side of the rod just above the handle.
Fishing Reel
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Spinning reels hang below the rod and have a metal bale that protects the spool. Select a spinning reel that fits onto the spinning rod you use, and make sure the combination is comfortable in your hand. Since long casts are necessary, make sure the spinning reel holds between about 200 and 250 yards of 6- or 8-pound fishing line.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit bass image by Liz Van Steenburgh from Fotolia.com
