With all of the jigs that are available in the Shimano family, how do you pick the right one for the day?  In this post, we’re going to go over everything that you need to know to maximize your day on the water. First, let’s go over the three basic characteristics to consider when picking a jig: (1) the shape, (2) the weight, and (3) the color. 

            For slow pitch jigging, most jigs are center weighted and are asymmetrical. This means that there is generally one flat side, and one rounded side - which can be concave or convex.  For speed jigging, shapes tend to be longer and skinnier, allowing the jig to cut through the water on a fast retrieve.  In either case, the jig’s shape and weighting give each model its unique action in the water.  This action can mimic a fleeing baitfish on a quick retrieve, or it can imitate a wounded or dying baitfish when fished slow or on the fall.

            Selecting the proper jig weight is a function of the depth you’re fishing (whether on the bottom or for suspended fish) and the jig’s shape.  The general rule is longer, skinnier jigs will cut through the water better in higher current situations; while wider, fatter jigs will flutter more and are better suited for lower current situations.  With respect to speed jigs, this correlates to approximately 1g per foot as a good starting point.  For instance, if you’re in 100ft of water, you can expect to fish a 100g jig in relatively neutral conditions. With respect to slow jigs, this correlates to a little less than 1.5g per foot.  For instance, in that same 100ft of water, you would look to a 130-150g jig to start.  Of course, adjust accordingly upward or downward by increasing or decreasing jig weight to keep your jig as vertical as possible. Personally, I prefer to err on the side of too heavy than too light.  It’s better to have a larger jig in a vertical presentation, than too light of a jig that is carried away by the current.

            Now, jigs come in a variety of colors and the conditions of the day will indicate what colors to use.  A few general rules are on bright days with clear water, you would look to more natural colors such as silvers, sardines, blues, and pinks.  On overcast days, or low light (including deep water), look to golds, glow, and darker shades to create contrast. UV reflective paint is also highly effective in deep water. 

            Like I’ve said, the shape of the jig will create its unique action.  Here’s a rundown of Shimano’s jig offerings, and how they perform in the water:

●     Shimmerfall: a center weighted, versatile, semi-long jig.  This is usually the first jig that I drop to test the water conditions.  On the retrieve the Shimmerfall has very little water resistance, and will create a long slide. On the fall, it’s quick to lay horizontal, and will slide back and forth with short rolling actions. Great in higher current situations, or when you need to get down quickly. The most versatile jig in the lineup.  Available in 100g, 140g, 170g, and 210g.

●     Ocea Sardine Waver: a center weighted, mid profile jig.  The slightly convex front pairs with the boat-like keel rear to create wobbling, back-sliding, and back-and-forth sliding actions. A great choice for low to mid current situations, and can create a beautiful action with little angler input.  Available in 130g, 180g, and 250g.

●     Butterfly Wingfall: a tail-weighted, flat sided, short profile jig.  The tail weighting and edges create three distinct actions - a rocking, cradle action, a wide roll, and a back sliding action. This jig also performs well on the retrieve, zig-zagging with a short flutter on the pause, to mimic fleeing baitfish.  Available in 100g, 130g, 160g, 200g, and 250g.

●     Butterfly Flatfall: a center-weighted, asymmetrical, short profile jig.  The unique profile creates a wobbling action in a horizontal position, which stays in the strike zone longer. This is particularly apparent when casted away from a boat, or fished in a yo-yo fashion with a fast retrieve followed by freefall.  Available in 80g, 100g, 130g, 160g, 200g, 250g, 300g, and 350g.

●     Butterfly Flatside: a rear-center weighted, asymmetrical, mid profile jig.  The rear-center weighting allows this jig to fall quickly and create a fluttering action on the drop.  This is one of the best options when fishing from a drifting boat, or when off-axis.  While designed to be fished on a fast retrieve, I’ve found this jig to be highly productive when fished on the fall, creating a fluttering and spiraling pattern.  Available 112g, 140g, 168g, and 224g.

●     Current Sniper: a center weighted, asymmetrical, small profile jig. The Current Sniper is an extremely versatile jig that can be fished by casting and retrieving, vertically, or on the fall.  It has a slimmer profile that cuts through water easily, and shines as a micro jig in shallower water.  Available in 21g, 28g, 35g, 42g, 60g, 80g, 100g, and 120g.

  Whatever conditions you face, there’s a Shimano jig that’s perfect for the job.