Here’s 3 easy Jig mods that will make a world of difference in your jig fishing.
Trim the Weed Guard
Most Jig companies don’t take the extra step and trim down the weed guard on their jigs. The weed guard is very important and it allows the jig to be weedless and get snagged on every branch or stick. Trimming down the weed guard will help with your hook-up ratios. The weed guard length should be between the hook point and the barb when bent over. This will ensure full coverage when dragging your jig through brush and also allow for optimum hook sets.
Thin Out the Weed Guard
Some weed guards are often way to bulky and thick. This makes it harder to get positive hook sets as the weed guard can actually prevent the hook from penetrating the fish’s mouth. Most weed guards are actually many stiff pieces of plastic band together and molded to the actual jig head. By cutting down 5-7 of these strands on the weed guard it becomes much easier for it to bend and allow hook penetration.
Shorten the Skirt
Some jig skirts come from the manufacturer a little too long. Truthfully, I usually never touch the jig skirts. However, in the winter months when you want a more finese presentation trimming down the skirts on your jigs can go a long way. Trimming back 1/2 inch of the skirt will give the fish a smaller presentation that will look like an easier meal when the fish really don’t feel like working for their meal.