Are you ready to up your salmon-fishing game? If so, jig fishing is a technique you don’t want to miss. As an experienced fishing guide with over three decades of jig fishing under my belt, I’ve learned the tricks of the trade and mastered the art of jigging for salmon. In this article, I’ll share insider tips and techniques that will help you reel in more fish and improve your overall jig fishing skills.
Jigging For Salmon: The Three Best Methods
Jigging for salmon is a versatile technique that can be employed in various water conditions. Whether you’re fishing in rivers, at river mouths, or on the beaches, jigs can be highly effective. When it comes to jig fishing for salmon, three methods are favored by experienced river guides.
Float Fishing with Jigs
Using jigs under a float is an incredibly effective way to catch salmon. By attaching a small jig to your line and drifting it under a float, you can imitate the natural movement of a spawn bag or a bead. To add even more lifelike action to your jig, try jiggling the float as it drifts down the river. This subtle movement can entice salmon to strike with incredible force. Just be prepared for the fight!
Twitching Jigs
Twitching jigs is another popular technique that yields great results. By imparting quick, erratic movements to your jig, you can mimic the behavior of injured prey and trigger the aggressive nature of salmon. Twitching jigs requires a bit of finesse and skill, but with practice, you’ll develop a rhythm that entices even the most finicky fish. To learn more about twitching jigs, check out my detailed guide on the best methods and recommended jigs.
Bottom Bouncing and Drift Fishing
For those fishing in faster and deeper water, bottom bouncing and drift fishing with jigs can be highly effective. By periodically bouncing or jumping the jig throughout the drift, you can create tempting movements that attract salmon. This method works particularly well in smaller pools, pockets, and riffles. Experiment with different techniques and see what works best for you.
Gear Up for Jigging Success
Having the right gear is essential for successful jig fishing. When it comes to rods, I recommend using a 7’6″ to 8-foot medium or medium-heavy rod with a fast action and a sensitive tip. My personal favorite is the G. Loomis IMX Twitch Spinning Rod, specifically designed for jigging and twitching jigs for salmon.
As for reels, a size 35 or 40 spinning reel is more than sufficient for jigging. Baitcasting reels are also a viable option, as long as they are of high quality with good gears and a drag capable of handling large salmon. Remember to choose a reel that can hold plenty of line to prevent getting spooled by those powerful fish.
When it comes to jig heads, opt for high-quality options from reputable brands like Gamakatsu, Owner, or VMC. Avoid cheap jig heads with weak hooks that can bend or break when battling salmon.
Enhance Your Jigs with Tail Additions
To add extra movement and enticement to your jigs, consider incorporating plastic jig tails. While these can be effective for both float fishing and twitching, I find them particularly useful for twitching jigs. Paddle tail minnows and twister tail jig tails are my top choices for jigging success.
Choosing the Right Jig Heads
Selecting the appropriate jig head is crucial to your success when jigging for salmon. For float fishing, opt for sizes ranging from 1/32oz to 1/4 ounce, depending on the depth and speed of the current. Twitching jigs call for heavier heads, with sizes ranging from 1/4oz to 1 ounce in deep, fast-flowing conditions. Adapt your jig head selection based on the size of the river and the spots you’re targeting.
The Art of Color Selection
Choosing the right color jig is essential for attracting salmon. In clear, low-water conditions, natural colors like olive, black, tan, and white are often effective. These colors mimic natural prey and are less likely to spook salmon. As conditions change, don’t hesitate to experiment with vibrant colors like chartreuse and pink or combinations of the two.
In dirty or fast-flowing waters, brighter colors like chartreuse, white, and pink tend to grab salmon’s attention. Darker colors may also work well in these conditions. Remember to adapt your choice based on water clarity and the behavior of the fish.
Master Your Jigging Setup
To maximize your jig fishing success, it’s important to set up your rig correctly. For dead drifting jigs, use the salmon jig setup outlined above. This setup works well for imparting action to the jig when pulling or twitching your float.
When twitching jigs, consider using a fluorocarbon leader with mono or braided lines. If your mainline is thin enough, you can tie it directly to the jig. For more in-depth information on salmon fishing methods, baits, and gear, be sure to check out my guide on how to catch salmon in a river.
Your Salmon Jigging Journey Starts Here
Now that you’re armed with insider tips and techniques for jigging success, it’s time to hit the water and put your skills to the test. Remember, jig fishing for salmon is as much an art as it is a science. Each angler develops their own unique approach and style. If you have any questions, tips, or favorite jigs to share, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.
Tight Lines,
Graham