Rigging For Jig Fishing Steelhead

Setting up to jig fish is a simple process. All youLight rods are needed to avoid fatigue over a
need is your favorite jig, a float and enoughlong season. I like a bait casting rod in the ten to
added weight to balance your float.twelve foot range designed for six to twelve
To weight your float and jig, you have a choicepound test lines when fishing larger rivers. On the
of pencil lead, egg sinker or a slinky. My favoritesmaller steams, I prefer a spinning rod in the
weight system is the egg sinker in line with myseven to eight foot length. If you decide to go
float and jig. The type of weight you use is reallywith a spinning rod, choose one with a slow action
a matter of personal preference though. Therated for 6 to 15 pound test lines.
important part is that the combined weight ofThe choice of a jig is a personal preference. Here
your jig and weight allows your float to ride atare several thoughts to help you with this choice.
the proper level in the river. Most floats comeIn low clear water use small jigs in pale shades.
with a colored band near the top this is howFaded pinks, tan, and pale browns are my
much of the float that should protrude above thefavorite clear water jig colors. Choose jigs in the 1
water.32 to 1/8 ounce size range when fishing clear
In selecting the best rod and reel for jig fishing,water. If you are going to be fishing big rivers
consider the type of water you intend to fish andwith strong flows, I prefer larger jigs and bright
the size of jigs you will need to use. For tossingcolors. My favorite jig for big water is hot pink, 1
jigs weighing 1/4 ounce and more, a level wind4 ounce weight. Chartreuse, black, orange and
reel I feel is the best bet. When fishing tiny jigsblack, red and white are others that I like to use.
with correspondingly small floats and weights, thenIt is always a good idea to try an assortment of
I would prefer a spinning reel.colors, as you will find that a color that works well
Rods for fishing jigs must be long and light. Longwhere you normally fish may not be as good
rods are necessary to help keep your line off thewhen fishing other areas.
water as your float drifts its way downstream.