SPRING 2017
I N G JIGS
A
technique and lure that has be-
come quite popular, across the
nation – over the past five years
–is one that originated here in my backyard of the Midwest on the Missis-
sippi River. Tournament bass anglers began
crafting their own swimming jigs after they
realized that the jig – a proven bass catch-
ing lure – worked well when it was swimming
back to the boat. Through numerous proto-
types and countless hours on the water, the
swim jig and the technique that accompanies
it took the Midwest bass tournament scene by
storm.
The anglers that were on the forefront of this new
technique racked up countless tournament wins and
heavy limits of bass, prior to other anglers learning of
this trend. Now, you can’t look into an angler’s tackle
and not find a swim jig.
Since it has gained popularity across the country,
tackle companies wanted to create the perfect swim
jig and offer it to all anglers across the United States.
A swim jig is not just a lure, it is a technique and
like all techniques there are key situations in which it
shines. For an angler to become successful with this
technique, they will need to garner the knowledge
of how versatile swimming a jig is and all the
components that help make a successful day on the
water.
THE JIG
Numerous manufacturers are now producing their version of a swim jig and I suggest you try some to find your favorite. Many of these companies are local to a certain area and pride themselves on design and craftsmanship.
A Plano Waterproof Stowaway case full of swim jigs is always in
my boat!
Photo: Glenn Walker
One
component to look at on a swim jig is how the plastic trailer is secured to the jig, some swim jigs have a wire plastic keeper, and others have a molded keeper into the lead head of the jig. Whichever style is used, you want to make sure it keeps your trailer in place. Putting a dab of super glue can be used to add an even more secure connection.
Another key feature of a swim jig is the bend in the hook eye; most jigs on the market have a bend that is around 30 degrees. This allows for the jig to be slide easily through vegetation as it is retrieved.
A perfectly balanced head is crucial; because you do not want your swim jig to roll when it is being retrieved. A rolling swim jig destroys the natural looking appeal that a swim jig has.
The weedguard is also crucial component of the swim jig. You do not need nor want the heavy weedguards that come on a standard flipping jig; so it is important to look at the weedguard and trim it down to your desired thickness. It is important that the weedguard doesn’t flare out, because it acts as a keel and if it is flared too much on one side or the other, it will make the jig roll.
As with all fishing lures the hook is the component that will dictate if you will be able to get that bass into the boat. Many times you are making long casts
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