Winter jigs: choosing size, weight and shape

The jig is a very common winter bait for catching small and medium-sized fish. Along with balancers and amphipods, it has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is very advisable to keep both balancers and amphipods and jigs in your box, because you never know what the fish will like best today.

The cost of these small baits is low, their variety and shapes are very pleasing, they are easy to make yourself, and you can also attach bloodworms to the hooks.

Let us immediately note that jigs come in both attached and non-attached types. They most often catch perch, ruffe, roach, bream and even crucian carp.

Jigs are made of lead or tungsten. Tungsten is heavier than lead and when it hits a hard bottom it creates a ringing sound that can additionally attract fish. The idea is similar to tungsten weights for jigs.

Reelless jigs

The difficulty of reelless fishing lies in the fact that the fisherman does not know how such a jig actually behaves at great depths.

For winter fishing with reelless fish, various fishing rods are used, among which the “balalaika” and the Shcherbakov-Abakumov fishing rod take pride of place.

The lighter the fishing rod, the more intensely the bait will play, with greater frequency, and this is what attracts fish. Various nods are also used, depending on the type of jig. For example, a metal two-cone nod is most often used when fishing with “devil” jigs.

Varieties of jigs

The catchability of jigs is beyond any doubt, and now fish are caught with this tackle both in winter and summer in both open and closed reservoirs. Naturally, for each specific case a certain type of bait is used, and anglers store jigs of various sizes, shapes and weights in boxes.

In general they are divided into:

• winter;
• summer

But this does not mean at all that summer bait cannot be used for fishing in winter, and vice versa; fishermen choose the most attractive and catchy bait for each reservoir at a certain time of the year.

Jigs differ from each other in:

• form;
• weight;
• size;
• coloring;
• the size and thickness of the hook;
• number of hooks;
• the material from which the cargo is made;
• realism;
• type of coating;
• durability.

Form

The shape of the bait affects how it behaves in currents and in still water. In addition, depending on its shape, a fishing jig can make sounds that attract fish, in particular, this applies to the “nail ball” and its varieties.

During the wiring process, drop-shaped jigs imitate the movement of an insect that accidentally fell into the water and is struggling for life. Perch or ide really like this spectacle, and they fearlessly attack the bait.

The jig, flattened on both sides, looks like a falling butterfly during a dive, and when held near the bottom it creates a cloudy cloud. A curious fish will definitely take an interest in the source of the attractive sight and this increases the chances of a bite.

Important! Even a slight adjustment of the shape of the jig leads to a change in its behavior when retrieving. Therefore, it is recommended to test the performance of the bait before using it in real conditions.

Weight

The weight of the jig (as well as its shape) affects its behavior in the water and, in addition, a heavy bait sinks faster into the bottom layers, which plays a special role when fishing in the current.

It is believed that it is better to catch large trophies with heavy jigs, but this is not a categorical statement and no one forbids experiments. The weight of the bait is also increased due to the use of large hooks, although this also affects its attractiveness, especially when catching cautious fish.

By weight, jigs are:

• lungs;
• heavy;
• super heavy.

Light baits are used when fishing at a depth of up to three meters , but if the depth of the reservoir at the fishing point is greater, other models are selected. This bait guarantees an elegant “game” in the upper layers of water, which is effective when catching roach or bluegill.

In the manufacture of light jigs, not only metal is used, but also plastic, and now such baits are very popular. The weight of light jigs is from 0.1 to 0.35 grams.

Heavy baits are catchy when fishing in currents and at great depths, and such conditions occur during winter fishing from holes in rivers in pits.

To make such jigs use:

• lead;
• tin;
• pewter.

The advantages of heavy jigs are that they sink faster in the water column, and this is especially important when fishing in the bottom layer.

Cargo material

Medium jigs are rightfully considered the most popular and versatile, because they are used when fishing in shallow currents and in still water, and at different depths.

For weighting, a load is used from:

• lead;
• tin;
• tungsten

In the last 5–10 years, tungsten lures have taken first place in the rankings of fishermen, as they have a number of advantages, namely:

• The large specific gravity of the metal means that baits with it quickly sink to great depths, even in strong currents.
• Tungsten jigs provide a unique “game” that will not leave indifferent both predatory and peaceful fish.
• The high density of tungsten allows you to make heavy, small-sized baits from it. The miniature nature of the jig increases its value as bait and allows you to catch trophy fish.
• The strength and reliability of the metal guarantees the durability of the bait that is made using it.
• The cost of tungsten jigs is higher than lead jigs, but their advantages during fishing, as well as environmental safety, compensate for the difference in price.

Color

Expert opinion

Alexander Popov

Expert fisherman

To increase the attractiveness of homemade and store-bought baits, they are painted in bright colors. This makes it possible to experiment with baits and select the most catchy ones for a given reservoir.

Fish are able to distinguish colors, and in winter, in especially clear water, the color of the jig chosen for fishing is very important. Scientists say that the predatory fish is able to distinguish colors from 5–10 meters and even more. White fish see worse , but they can also distinguish the shades of bait from a distance of up to one meter .

In the morning, shiny baits are more effective, but when the sun rises, it is better to change the jig to a dull one. At night, fish see much worse, so the smell and taste of the bait come to the fore.

We must not forget that in the water column the color changes due to the refraction of sunlight. yellow and red baits ; they show the best results.

In addition, the food bloodworm is also red and the fish associate this color of the bait with food.

When fishing for roach, jigs work better:

• white;
• orange;
• black.

More attractive to a predator:

• yellow;
• black;
• red.

Hooks

Considering what a catchy jig is needed for and that its average weight is 4–6 grams, special attention is paid to the hooks on which the weight is soldered. Thin hooks have advantages, but they do not always work.

When fishing for whitefish, thin hooks cut the delicate lips , and the trophy is torn off when fished out. But it is better to catch a predator such as pike perch or perch with thin hooks, and use an extractor to extract them.

Selecting a catchable jig sometimes takes a long time and has a positive effect on the final result of fishing. Standard types of jigs are equipped with hooks in which the shank and sting are in the same plane, but there are exceptions - baits with a bent hook sting, and they work better against predators.

The length of the hook shank in the bait also plays an important role.

When fishing with baits, use jigs with a long fore-end that securely holds bloodworms or maggots. The mothless fish have a short forend and it is enough to catch a pecked fish.

Unlike sports carp or feeder fishing, where leashes with hooks are changed to new ones after catching a couple of fish, jigs are used repeatedly. Therefore, the angler must be sure of the sharpness of the hook and, if necessary, sharpen it.

This is especially true for baits pulled along the bottom, when the hook tip is dulled by stones or bottom debris.

To make high-quality hooks, hardened steel wire is used, and their sting remains sharp even after 2-3 fishing trips. But in any case, when preparing to go to a reservoir, the fisherman must make sure that his hooks are sharp so that there are no offensive fish runs.

The design of jigs uses one, two or even three hooks (like, for example, the “devil”), but a larger number of hooks does not always have a positive effect on the bite. Multi-hook moths are good for catching bream using a bunch of moths, but for catching a predator it is better to use single-hook baits.

Important! Before each fishing trip, as well as during fishing, check the sharpness of the hooks on the jig. When fishing, you need to have a sharpener with you and, if necessary, sharpen the point of the hook.

Fishing line for jig

Due to the fact that winter tackle is very delicate and requires high sensitivity, the diameter of the fishing line used also plays an important role.

It is necessary to take care of the correct selection of the weight of the jig, and the diameter of the fishing line, and choose a sensitive nod. The thinner the line, the better the jig will play.

Reelless jigs also differ from others in that the angle of suspension of such baits to the fishing line is approximately 45°, which is why any slightest movement of the nod provokes the characteristic “nodding” movements of the jig.

How to assemble a winter fishing rod

This article will discuss general recommendations for beginners on how to assemble a winter fishing rod. So, how can you assemble this miracle winter fishing rod correctly, and even so that you can fish it yourself :).

First you need to find out whether there is a current in a given body of water, whether it is strong or not, the depth, what kind of fish we will catch. You need to understand that the thinner the line, the less noticeable it will be and there will be more bites, but you need to take into account the weight and breed of the fish. Different types of fish resist differently when playing, some are stronger, some are weaker.

For example, you can’t pull out a large fish with a thin fishing line; it will break. The conclusion suggests itself - you need a thicker fishing line so that it doesn’t break. And again there is a “but”, “coarse” tackle with thick fishing line will get fewer bites, so you need to look for a compromise.

In a current, a winter fishing rod is a little “coarser” than a fishing rod for fishing without a current. To prevent the jig or hook with the nozzle from being carried away by the current, use a heavier weight, meaning the weight of the jig or sinker. The shape of the jig or sinker can be flattened on both sides instead of round. Flatter shapes are less likely to be carried away by the current. Accordingly, due to the heavier weight of the jig, the fishing line is used “thicker”, therefore the size of the fishing rod will be larger and the nod will be more rigid.

It should be remembered that during the first ice the fish are strong, active and it is better to use a slightly thicker fishing line, then closer to the middle of winter, when the fish becomes weaker due to lack of oxygen, they use a thinner fishing line. These are general recommendations; a lot depends on the characteristics of the reservoir. It happens that the bite is only during the first ice, and then there is no bite at all all winter, but it happens that the fish in the river are active and strong all winter.

Now you understand, in order to assemble a catchy winter fishing rod you need experience in fishing on these bodies of water. On each body of water, fishing rods can differ significantly. What kind of winter fishing rod it will be of course depends on the type of fish you are going to catch.

A few words about depth, the greater the depth, the heavier jigs you need to use.

The ratio of the weight of the jig to the depth of the reservoir:

Let's summarize what was written above. To assemble a winter fishing rod you need to know: what we will catch (type of fish, its expected size, weight); Is there a current in this body of water and what kind - strong, weak; it’s time for winter - first ice or deep winter; depth of the reservoir.

I told you a little theory with the hope that you have already heard and roughly know what a winter fishing rod consists of. If you don’t know, no problem, I’ll write about it below. There are different types of winter fishing rods, or rather different in the method of fishing. In this article we will look at an example of a winter fishing rod for jig fishing.

The picture shows a winter fishing rod of the “balalaika” type.

A jig is a hook soldered into a sinker. The jig is made in the likeness of a bug that lives in water and is food for fish. Now there are many different jigs in stores, but the most basic ones are drop-shaped and ball (pellet).

The nod is a bite alarm; in other words, it’s a spring. It also serves to create smooth and uniform movements of the jig. Such movements are called play. The usual length of the nod is from 4 cm to 12 cm. The weight of the jig and the nod are selected so that under the weight of the jig the nod bends by about 25º-30º.

The fishing line on a winter fishing rod should be without knots, any knot is a weak point. Try to break the fishing line, it will cut your hands and break with difficulty. Now make a knot in it and try again, it will tear easily. They also pay attention to ensure that under the weight of the jig the line is stretched like a string; this is necessary for the best play and timely hooking.

The optimal diameter of the fishing line for a winter jig fishing rod is 0.10 - 0.12 mm for small fish. It should hold up to a 400g perch, although it also depends on the quality of the fishing line. If larger specimens are planned, then the diameter of the fishing line is needed 0.15-0.20 mm. Sometimes it happens that you need to use even thicker fishing line. But it depends on the situation, as written above, here are general recommendations with the expectation that you will catch fish weighing no more than 2 kg.

Table of ratios between the weight of the jig and the diameter of the fishing line:

I will give a specific example of an assembled winter fishing rod for fishing in places with weak or no current on the first ice for fish weighing up to 1 kg:

• "balalaika" type fishing rod,
• fishing line with a diameter of 0.14 mm,
• choose small or medium jigs, drop or ball (pellet) shape, dark color; when choosing a jig, select a nod for it so that it bends by about 30º under its weight, i.e. hold the nod in your hand and hang a jig on the tip of the nod, then watch how the nod reacts to the weight of the jig.

All you have to do is learn How to tie a jig and you can easily assemble a winter fishing rod for fishing with a jig. After you assemble your fishing rod, I recommend reading Fishing in winter with a jig, which describes the rules of playing with a jig and examples of games.

In this article there was an example of a winter fishing rod “balalaika”, which is well suited for fishing at shallow depths, up to 4 m. For example, you can catch roach with a “balalaika” - Catching roach in winter with a jig. You can see an example of a winter fishing rod for fishing at a depth of more than 4 m in Catching perch in winter with a jig; the main difference between sliding gear and blind gear is described there.

Published: December 10, 2013, 08:30

• Tags:
• winter fishing rod
• nod
• fishing line
• jig
• fishing rod rig

Types of jigs

• Not very active fish are caught with winter jigs. These baits are small in size and painted in colors that would attract fish from a considerable distance. Most often, a variety of attachments are used.
• A clamp jig is used for fishing with very small bait that is difficult to secure on the hook.
• No-attachment jigs are characterized by a harmonious ratio of the sizes of the jig, the hook itself, small beads and cambrics, designed to increase the attractiveness of the bait. Fishing with baitless baits is easy and has very good results. Good baits include “ant”, “uralka”, “nymph” and others.

Jig shape

To attract fish, first of all, the jig must create high-frequency vibrations and be sufficiently noticeable in the water column. Different models of jigs also play differently.

For example, baits flattened at the top and bottom on a muddy bottom are capable of raising a small cloud of turbidity, and jigs of the “droplet” or “pellet” type form a turbid fountain.

When lowered to the bottom, the cone-shaped jig slightly buries itself in the silt. Nodding movements are especially good in “uralok” and “ants”. The famous “devils” are suitable for catching roach and perch, and drop-shaped or spherical jigs are considered the most universal.

Summer and winter jigs

Some fishermen think that the jig is a purely winter bait and you can’t catch fish with it in the summer. But this is absolutely false, because even in the summer months, when the water warms up, the jig becomes a catchable bait and can be caught with it:

• roach;
• crucian carp;
• perch;
• zander;
• bream.

The difference in fishing is that in summer there are a lot of fry in the upper layers of the water, attacking any bait that falls into the water. In this case, light jigs are ineffective, since they simply do not have time to reach the bottom and bottom layers where large fish stand.

Therefore, summer jigs are heavier than winter jigs, and imitate those insects that make up the food supply of the fish of interest. For example, for catching crucian carp, a bait is chosen that resembles a dung fly and is painted in appropriate shades.

By the way, crucian carp is one of the most common trophies when fishing with summer jigs, but in winter it prefers to hide in the silt and is hooked much less often.

In addition to crucian carp, tench and perch also take well with summer baits, and even if there is no bite, you need to vary the models to find the most catchy one.

When fishing in muddy water in the summer, the color of the bait also comes to the fore, making it stand out from the general background. If additional bait is not used, then it is extremely important to find fish sites, otherwise the expected result will not be achieved.

rods are preferable for fishing with jigs , then in summer these baits are used when fishing with spinning rods or float tackle.

In winter, jigs become the main bait, and every fisherman's box will definitely have them in them. The difference between a winter jig and a summer jig is its reduced size, because you have to fish in clean water, and the bait should look believable.

The fish will be wary of a large bait and there will most likely not be a bite.

Initially, the creation of a jig was associated with the need to invent a winter bait that combined a hook with a sinker and activated the bite of inactive fish.

The effectiveness of vertical fishing from the hole has proven the correctness of the chosen path and therefore the bait is constantly being refined and improved.

The most catchy winter jigs are made with tungsten weights. This is a heavy metal, with a high specific gravity and density, which means the size of the load is made smaller.

Tungsten lures quickly sink into the water and are positioned stably in the water column. In the current they “play”, attracting trophies, and in still water, anglers use special wiring when the bait imitates a bug, fly or other insect.

The most catchy winter jigs:

• ant;
• Uralka;
• nailball;
• goat;
• little devil.

Leading companies engaged in the production of fishing equipment, including jigs:

• Lucky John.
• Salmo.
• Lumocim.
• Discus Fishing.

The popularity of winter fishing is only growing every year and the range of bait manufacturers is constantly expanding. In addition, the fishermen themselves are craftsmen who create unique jigs from accessible and inexpensive materials.

Important! Chinese products are cheaper than branded ones, but they are worth buying only if you managed to see the bait “live”, and not just in the picture.

Tungsten jigs

Tungsten has a higher density than lead, and therefore jigs made of these two metals with identical dimensions will differ in weight (tungsten models are heavier).

Because of this, tungsten jigs sink much faster, and therefore they are often used for deep fishing and fishing in areas with strong currents. Decent weight with a small size allows you to give the bait an active game.

Tungsten is used mainly to catch perch, bream, roach, crucian carp, rudd, and ide. Very often such jigs help out in the dead of winter.

How to choose a jig?

Material

To make the right choice, each bait must be assessed according to a number of criteria, first of all this concerns the material.

The three most common options today are discussed below:

1. Lead. Jigs made from this material are characterized by smooth play. They are also ideal for catching wary fish that may be wary of taking on heavier or larger varieties. Today they are the most popular and sought-after option, due to their relatively low cost. There are many subspecies that are made of lead and differ in the characteristics of the game; for the most part, they are used to catch silver bream, perch or large roach.
2. Tungsten. This material is characterized by increased density, so smaller jigs are made from it, which at the same time maintain their weight. Such features have a positive effect on the speed of immersion, and the bait reaches the specified depth much faster. Tungsten jigs are especially popular during winter fishing, when the fish are characterized by passive behavior and react poorly to large models.
3. Tin. Jigs made from this material are an excellent solution for beginners. They are used for catching roach at relatively shallow depths in areas with standing water. The main distinguishing features are: smooth play, small size, light weight.

Weight

Weight primarily depends on the depth of the prey and its characteristics; the basic rules for selection in accordance with these criteria are given below:

• White bream and roach are most often caught using small models, which at the same time have an impressive weight. Such jigs can quickly reach the required depth, but to use them you will need to use a fairly thick cord.
• Models whose weight does not exceed 0.25g are usually used for catching fish in shallow water.
• Heavier models, weighing more than 0.25g, are effective when catching prey located at a depth of more than 2 meters.

Color

The color of the bait is another significant criterion that is important to know and take into account when choosing a jig. The basic rules and patterns are given below:

1. Black jigs are a universal option that is effective at any time of the year. Such models are an indispensable attribute during spring fishing.
2. Silver and red jigs are good to use when eating or when catching fairly hungry fish.
3. Copper jigs are the most effective option for deep sea fishing.
4. White baits are used during winter fishing if the ice surface is covered with a lot of snow. However, in its absence, you can also use dark models.
5. Brown, green and purple jigs demonstrate good catchability when catching perch or roach.
6. Cool-colored jigs are used to catch prey in clean and clear water.
7. Jigs with a shiny body are good to use when fishing in shallow water, since under the influence of sunlight they will create glare that attracts the attention of predators.

When fishing at a depth of 10 meters or more, you can use bait of absolutely any color, since their color does not matter in such conditions.

Form

The game and the specificity of the vibrations created are two main factors that affect the catchability of the bait. They are directly dependent on the body shape of the jig; the basic rules for choosing, taking into account this feature, are discussed below:

1. “Droplets” and “pellets” can create cloudy clouds, so they are good to choose when fishing in reservoirs with a muddy bottom surface.
2. Models with a flat shape are capable of both creating dust clouds and dispersing them. This option is used for catching the most popular prey: perch or roach.
3. “Uralki” and “ants” are distinguished by a specific game, which involves nodding movements.
4. Models made in the shape of a cone descend to the bottom surface and enter the upper layers. For this reason, they are not suitable for fishing in reservoirs with a rocky bottom.
5. "Ovsinka" is usually used to catch a predator in the middle of the winter season.
6. “Devil” is recognized by many anglers as the most universal bait, since it catches a wide variety of prey, including perch, chub, roach, and bream.
7. “Droplets” and all jigs that have a round shape can be used to catch any predatory fish, regardless of the conditions.

Size

The size of the bait is selected individually in each case; the decisive factors are the activity of the potential prey and the fishing depth.

The basic rules are discussed below:

• The smallest options have a diameter of 1.6-1.8 mm, they are used in the complete absence of biting.
• Small and medium-sized jigs are relevant if the depth does not exceed 2 meters.
• At depths of 2 meters or more, large models are usually used.

Lead jigs

At great depths, large individuals grab the bait extremely carefully, and therefore the jig used for catching large fish should not be too large in size.

Very often it turns out that a tungsten jig turns out to be too heavy, and in such cases it is more appropriate to use lead models.

Lead jigs are characterized by smoother play. Due to their low cost, they have gained wide popularity in our territories and successfully catch perch, roach, bream and bream.

Mormyshka: color, weight and animation

Very often on winter fishing you can hear: “What kind of jig do you fish with? What colour?" Having learned the answer, the angler immediately begins to look in his arsenal for a bait of the specified color, believing that this can improve the bite. Sometimes, extremely rarely, a simple color change will give results, but more often than not, this is not the problem.

In order to talk substantively on this topic, let’s immediately define some boundaries. It is customary to divide jigs into two large categories: reelless and with a nozzle. This article will focus on jigs with attachments. Does color really matter that much when fishing with a jig with a bait? And in general, what factors influence the bite when fishing with a jig?

In my opinion, or as it is customary to write on the Internet now, IMHO (purely personal opinion), the color of the jig plays a very mediocre role. And if, in general, the catchability of a jig is taken as 100%, then the color of the bait plays a role in 10% of cases, in 20-30% the weight, size and shape of the bait matters, and 60-70% is played by animation, that is, how the fisherman will be able to make the jig work. Moreover, it must be taken into account that animation depends not only on skillful play with the jig, but also on the tackle itself. Your fishing rod should be harmonious: the nod, line and jig work as a single whole. A thick line or an underloaded nod can negate all the sensitivity of the gear. And the jig itself must be tied not anyhow, but in such a way that the bait can work in accordance with its design features. “Devil” - hang strictly vertically, some jigs - at an angle close to 90°, and some - at an angle of 120-140° to the fishing line. It is easy to determine these parameters; just look at the angle of the through hole in the body of the jig. And if for some reason your jig does not hang at a given angle, then try to figure out the knot - the problem may only be in how it is tied.

Now as for attaching the jig to the fishing line. There are two options for fastening: by a ring and by passing the fishing line through the body of the jig. And if there are no problems with fastening by the ring, then with fastening through the body of the bait you need to either choose a jig with a cambric in the through hole, or very carefully bore and clean this hole. Very often, especially when catching a large fish, the line breaks precisely because it rubs against the corners and burrs of the hole. For this reason, I personally lost several large perches. And now I pay a lot of attention to attaching the jig, because I don’t want to lose a serious trophy.

The main places for jig fishing are lakes and rivers. Moreover, in rivers these are, as a rule, places with a slow flow or no current at all: snags, backwaters, etc. For fishing in such places, light-weight jigs are used. Sometimes, when the depth is deep, you have to use a heavier jig so that the bait can reach the bottom quickly enough. In recent years, many fishermen have been buying lures made of tungsten, silver, and sometimes making their own jigs from gold. The small size of the bait with a large weight is, of course, good, and all this works with a fairly active bite. However, there is one big “but”. It consists in the fact that although the size of the jig has become smaller, the weight has not gone away, and often cautious fish (especially non-predatory species), barely touching and feeling the weight, immediately throw the jig. So you definitely need to have baits made of lead and other fairly light metals in your arsenal, and you should not treat such jigs as out-of-date rarities.

Bait selection

There are a lot of forms of attachment jigs. From “droplets” and “pellets” to “devils”. The choice of bait for a beginner or little-practicing angler usually happens in a store. And most often these purchases are purely random. The fisherman takes a black, gold, silver jig. Sometimes he takes the same jigs, but of different sizes and weights. But in general, buying looks like buying groceries: take everything and different things, maybe something will come in handy. I’ll try to help you and give you an example to make it more convincing. For any angler, it all starts with three or four baits, which he fishes with at the very beginning of his fishing practice. Then he begins to actively get involved in fishing, buying up not only new products, but also entire model ranges of baits. Years pass, and almost every experienced angler comes to the point that he begins to make baits himself and, in the end, he is left, as at the very beginning, with only three or four models. But these baits are already universal, with which he can catch fish in almost any conditions.

I also followed the path of universalization, and all my attachment jigs are practically “reelless”. Each of the baits has not one color, but a whole palette. For example, yellow body, black beads, green cambric, etc.; a variety of combinations of colors, sizes and shapes of beads. With this combination, there is no need to change jigs based on color. In addition to the fact that the jig has its own game, the bead (sometimes two) also actively plays, moving along the shank of the hook, thereby attracting fish.

Maybe three or four baits are not enough, but I think that a dozen proven jigs are quite enough for all occasions. I select jigs for fishing only according to my desire or when the need arises to increase or decrease the size of the bait. My jigs are very often attacked by pike; over the last two fishing trips four baits were bitten off by predators. Sometimes, but extremely rarely, although this happened twice with my friends on the last fishing trip, it is possible to bring out pike with a jig. But this is still more of a matter of luck.

Of course, it is almost impossible to play with such a jig as a reelless jig without specially tuned tackle. But it is imperative to use the strengths of these baits. Before we move on to talking about playing with such jigs, let's look at the main question: how does a jig attract fish? First of all, you need to be aware that the main role in attached jigs is played by bait. Playing with a jig without bait means being left without bites. Although there are sometimes exceptions, they, as we know, only confirm the rule. In order to understand this essence more deeply, let's plunge into the history of the jig.

The birth of the jig was most likely due to the fact that once upon a time a weight and a hook were combined into a single whole. I think that in those ancient times, fishermen lightly shook the bait to activate the fish. Gradually, playing with a jig began to come to the fore. Fishermen realized that if the bait is in motion, then such bait is more often attacked by fish. And various experiments with the shape of the bait led to the fact that the jig began to play not only the role of a load, but also serve as an irritant and a catalyst for biting. The jig began to attract fish with its play and sparkling in the water. Approaching this shiny and twitching object, the fish noticed the bait and, therefore, rushed to it. Of course, a jig is not a balancer and cannot attract fish from a distance of five meters, but it must collect fish from two or three meters away. In the case of a “reelless” jig, the jig plays the role of both bait and bait at the same time, and here a completely different tackle is required, a different animation, color is already beginning to play a fairly significant role.

And the last thing: why I love winter jig fishing - for the direct contact with the fish, when you are separated by only a few meters of fishing line, and every, even light touch of the bait is transferred to your hand. And playing with a jig cannot be compared with any other fishing. Only you yourself, as a puppeteer, can make the jig work and provoke the fish to bite. And what unspeakable satisfaction you get after a victory! Sometimes for a while you begin to feel almost like God. But the next lack of bite makes you fall from heaven to earth and again begin to rack your brains over the bite formula...

Konstantin Fadeev

Jig weight

Heavy jigs with bait are good for catching predators at a depth of 3-5 m. They sink to the desired depth faster and allow the use of thicker fishing line. It is important to use large jigs on the first and last ice.

Small models weighing up to 0.25 g are better at attracting small fish when fishing at a depth of 2-2.5 m. Light jigs are characterized by a softer, more delicate game. It is better to catch roach and bream using small but heavy jigs.

The influence of jig weight and size on fishing

Home | Lures | The influence of jig weight and size on fishing

Beginner fishermen always have a question: Which jig to use in this place? They become confused in the store at the sight of several dozen, or even hundreds of different jigs. We won’t talk about body shape here, because each shape needs a separate article. Let's talk here only about choosing the weight and color of the jig .

There is no clear answer to the question: Which jig is the most catchy? Its catchability is influenced by many factors: time of year, place of fishing, weather (sunny or cloudy), transparency of the reservoir, etc. One jig will catch well in one place, but in another the fish may simply ignore it. This confuses novice fishermen. Below I will give some recommendations on choosing the weight and color of a jig for different fishing conditions.

In shallow waters and without current, the lightest jigs are better suited. If the depth does not exceed 2-2.5 meters, then it is preferable to use jigs weighing up to 0.5 grams. If there is a current, heavier equipment weighing up to 1-1.5 grams will be required. In reservoirs with a depth of 3 to 5 meters, it is recommended to use a jig weighing up to 1-1.5 grams. At a depth of 5-10 meters, they are suitable weighing up to 2-2.5 grams. At a depth of 10-15 meters - up to 3-3.5 degrees. Accordingly, here it is necessary to make an adjustment for the presence and strength of the current. The stronger the current, the heavier the jig is needed.

Mormyshki come in natural metallic colors (silver, dark red, yellow, etc.), and are painted black, red, white, etc. colors. the most versatile jig color . It catches almost all white and predatory fish everywhere and in any weather. On bright sunny days, preference is given to dark colors (copper, dark yellow, black, etc.). In cloudy weather, in the evening or early in the morning, the fish take a light jig better, and in the middle of the day they switch to darker colors. The depth of the reservoir also affects the choice of jig color . In shallow places up to 1.5-2 meters, use a jig with a matte dark surface. In deeper reservoirs, shiny bright colors are used.

During winter fishing, fisherman need to pay special attention to their clothing. It should be comfortable and warm in order to move effortlessly on ice at sub-zero temperatures. For comfort and preservation of body heat, it is recommended to use thermal underwear. Today you can buy thermal underwear in any store that sells fishing or travel goods. For example, in Minsk you can buy thermal underwear on the website www.k8.by.

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Jig color

When choosing the color of the jig, take into account the environmental conditions, fishing time, water color, and depth. So, the lighter the water in the reservoir, the darker the jig should be.

Also, a dark bait should be taken if there is little snow on the ice and vice versa - the more snow, the lighter the jig.

In the morning, at shallow depths, you can fish with a shiny bait, while during the day, bait with a dull color is preferable.

Black jigs are considered the most versatile. For deep-sea fishing, a copper-colored bait is suitable, while after the 10 m mark the color of the jig is not at all important. For perch and roach, jigs of darkish shades (brown, dark green, purple) are used.

Jigs: shape, weight, color

You can't do without a jig for winter fishing. What exactly is this? Mormyshka is one of the types of artificial baits. The name itself, “mormyshka,” comes from a type of small crustacean, popularly nicknamed jig. The bait imitates its movement in the water very well and is attractive to a wide variety of fish species: ruff, perch, roach, ide. There is a very large assortment of jigs on sale in different sizes, colors, and weights. With such diversity it is easy to get lost and confused. What are the criteria for choosing a suitable bait? The main characteristics of a jig are: shape, weight, color, position on the fishing line and the number of hooks.

Super heavy jigs are made from metal alloys. The weight of the alloy is heavier than that of lead, but such material is difficult to process, resulting in sharp edges on the bait, which can damage the fishing line. It is possible to get rid of this drawback, but the methods are extremely complex and unsightly, and super heavy jigs are rarely used - with a very sluggish bite.

For the manufacture of heavy jigs, lead and various solders (tin and lead, hart, babbitt) are used. They can be either solid or enclosed in various types of shells - brass, copper, cupronickel. Heavy jigs are used for fishing at great depths. In cold weather, the water on the hole quickly twitches with ice, and this is where a heavy bait is simply worth its weight in gold.

In good weather and fishing at shallow depths, a light jig, more reminiscent of a miniature spinner, will be useful. The weight of such bait is very insignificant, in the range of 0.1-0.3 grams.

Recommended ratio of jig weight to line diameter

The shape of the jig determines what its vibrations will be in the water and how much they will attract the attention of the fish. The “pellets” and “droplets” touching the bottom form clouds of turbidity, creating the appearance of movement; rare fish (especially the voracious perch) will resist trying to grab this very cloud. For flattened lures and ant jigs, the effect of use is to swing. When choosing the shape of a bait, you should not be afraid to experiment, because only through practical experience can you find out how this or that jig will move in the water or when it comes into contact with the bottom.

The choice of jig color is carried out taking into account the illumination of the reservoir, not forgetting that depending on weather conditions, time of day and even time of year, this same illumination is different. Here simple rules will come to the aid of the fisherman: it is better to fish early in the morning with a shiny bait, and after the sun reaches its zenith, it is more advisable to choose a dull-colored jig. However, if the reservoir is deep enough, then bright bait can be used both during the day and at dusk.

A properly soldered hook in a jig is one of the components of successful fishing with this bait. A thin and sharp hook will not allow the fish to break away when bitten.

It is essential to acquire the skill of tying a jig. A properly tied bait is positioned at an angle of 130-145 degrees. The best place to practice tying is at home, especially if you don’t want to miss both the bait and the prey.

Taking into account the above characteristics of jigs, you can choose the necessary bait for fishing. The main thing is not to be afraid to try, and successful results will not be long in coming.

Jig hooks

It is quite difficult to evaluate a hook on site. First, pay attention to the manufacturer.

Hooks from Japanese companies, for example, Owner, as well as Kamasan hooks, which are equipped with Salmo products, have proven themselves well.

The hooks must be thin enough and very sharp. The best way to assess the sharpness of a hook is to take a regular magnifying glass and try to look at the end of the tip. If a point-end is visible at the tip of the sting, it is better to change such a hook.

Another way to check the sharpness of the hook is to touch the tip of the hook to the nail, and if the hook of the jig sticks, in the sense of digging in, then the sharpness is excellent.

Hooks on a jig

And, of course, the closest attention should be paid to the hooks with which any jig is equipped. Very often on sale there are jigs with terrible thick and dull hooks, which are absolutely unsuitable for normal fishing. The quality of any jig largely depends on the hook.

It is quite difficult to evaluate a hook on a finished bait. The easiest way: do not buy products from dubious manufacturers. Good Tula jigs are equipped with hooks from Owner or other well-known Japanese companies - there are no problems with them. Salmo products have Kamasan hooks. But there are problems with jigs equipped with hooks from European manufacturers. And the point, in general, is not even in the brand name, but in the fact that the hook is thin and sharp, so that it minimally damages the bloodworm and reliably hooks the fish when hooking.

The most reliable way to check the sharpness of a jig hook is to try to see the end of the hook tip through a magnifying glass. If it didn’t work, everything is fine, but if you can see a point at the tip of the sting, it means you need to either sharpen or change the hook.

All methods of checking sharpness on a nail or skin are very unreliable, since even a hook that is not sharp can cling to the nail and cut the skin.