How to Select a Slow Pitch Jig: A Comprehensive Guide
While it is possible to catch a fish on just about anything, they will definitely react better to certain lures under different situations. In this article, I am going to discuss every aspect of how to select a slow pitch jig including some recommendations and a helpful calculator.
If you are new to the world of slow pitch jigging or need a refresher, check out our Slow Pitch Jigging Guide.
Table of Contents
Slow Pitch Jig Overview
A slow pitch jig is a metal lure designed to mimic the movements of small fish or other types of prey when pulled through the water. Unlike traditional jigs, which are often retrieved at high speeds, slow pitch jigs are intended to be fished more slowly, in a series of rhythmic, deliberate movements. The idea is to imitate the erratic, struggling behavior of a wounded fish to entice predatory fish to strike.
The weight, size, and shape of the jig are crucial factors that dictate its action in the water. For instance, heavier jigs sink faster and are more suited for fishing in deeper waters or strong currents. Meanwhile, smaller, lighter jigs can be used in shallower waters or when targeting smaller species.
When it comes to shape, some jigs are designed to flutter and wobble, mimicking a wounded baitfish, while others may dart or spiral as they sink. The best choice of jig will ultimately depend on the fishing conditions and the behavior of the fish you’re targeting.
Jig Color
The #1 thing to remember when selecting a color of jig, is what are these fish eating? For instance, if you are fishing in relatively shallow water, up to 100ft or so, it is best to go with natural colors that mimic the local forage. Near me, in north central Florida, Sardines are very common, so I will often choose a jig with a blue or green component, and a natural look.
In deeper water, where there is not as much light, the fish may be feeding mostly on squid. For deep water jigging I like to go with a pink or orange jig with some glow to mimic those deepwater squid.
If the water is not super clear, maybe it’s a bit green or murky, you cannot go wrong with a bright chartreuse or gold
Jig Shape
Jigs come in a variety of shapes from very cylindrical to wide and flat. A cylindrical jig will sink very fast but have little to no action at all, where a wide jig will sink slower but have a large amount of action.
You should also consider whether the jig is balanced or weighted toward the front or back. Front weighted jigs will have a harder time sinking, but more of a darting action
Below are some examples of different jig shapes.
For a list of the jigs that I like to use, ready my list of the Best Slow Pitch Jigs.
More action equals more bites, but if you cant reach the bottom it does no good. Along with jig shape, you need to consider jig weight which I will get into in the next section.
Jig Weight
In general, the weight of your jig should be 1gram for every 2ft of water depth. The idea is to use the lightest jig, with the most action, that you can get away with based on your drift speed and wind direction.
If your drift speed is less than or around 1 knot, you can use just about any jig you want, you will have no trouble reaching the bottom even in very deep water. Remember that wider jigs will sink slower, so you may need to upsize a little.
Now this is where it gets tricky. If the wind is blowing in the opposite direction of your drift, the boat will be drifting slower than the current below you, which will sweep your jig away from the boat.
For every 5 knots of opposing wind, add 1 knot to your drift speed and for every knot you are drifting, add 50 grams to your jig. For example:
Consider you are sitting in 200ft of water and your GPS is reading a speed over ground of 1 knot and you are drifting north with a 10 knot north wind(blowing to the south). In this instance, you would want to use a jig that weighs 250grams. 100grams for depth, and 150(50 for SoG and 100 for opposing wind) for drift speed.
Jig Material
While most jigs are made of lead, you will occasionally come across jigs made of stainless steel or aluminum or other similar materials. Aluminum, for instance, is much lighter than lead which means a 200g aluminum jig will be much larger in size than one made of lead.
The extra size means the jig will sink slower, but will also have much more hangtime. These are factors that are worth considering when selecting a jig.
Jig Calculator
My Favorite Jigs
Shout Stay
I have not found a more natural looking presentation from any other company. The subtle flutter, quick flick and hangtime of this flashy jig are irresistible to just about any fish. Can be found on Amazon or at Tomo’s Tackle.
Available in sizes from 160-500g
Jyg Pro Deep
If you are looking for the most action possible out of a jig, you should give this one a try. The way it glides and wobbles through the water is mesmerizing, and it sinks surprisingly fast despite its shape. Can be found on Amazon or Jyg Profishing.
Available in sizes from 25-400g.
You can also check out my list of the Best Slow Pitch Jigs.
Conclusion
Understanding slow pitch jigs is the first step in mastering this highly effective fishing technique. Armed with the right knowledge and the appropriate jig, you can significantly increase your chances of success on the water.