Has it been driving you nuts how all the other anglers are pulling fish left and right while you struggle to even buy a bite? While you try your best with worms, spinnerbaits, and other run-of-the-mill lures, one bait has been dominating the bass scene lately: the flipping jig.
Everywhere you look on social media and fishing shows, it seems like flipping a jig is the go-to technique for finding the motherlode of bass in heavy cover. As frustrating as it can feel to watch your buddies boat multiple fish with each flip of their jig, take heart!
With the right know-how, even flipping newbies can get in on the action. In this post on how to fish a flipping jig, I’ll share all my tips and tricks for fishing a flipping jig so you can start catching bass with confidence instead of cursing under your breath. Get ready to master a technique that will take your bass fishing results to the next level.
What is a Flipping Jig?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of fishing a flipping jig, let’s first define what it is. A flipping jig is essentially an upgraded version of a traditional bass jig. It typically has a thicker and bulkier profile, making it perfect for targeting bass hiding in heavy cover. The most noticeable difference between a flipping jig and other jigs is its design.
Flipping jigs have a streamlined head and are often fitted with weed guards to help prevent snags when fishing in dense vegetation. You can also find flipping jigs in various colors, but the most common are black and blue.
Necessary Materials
Given below is a list of all the materials you will require to fish a flipping jig.
- Flip Bait (Jig)
- Fishing Rod
- Fishing Reel
- Braided Fishing Line
- A Pair of Pliers or Hook Remover
- Soft Plastic Trailer (Optional)
Of course, these are just the basics. Once you start fishing with a flipping jig, you may encounter different situations that may require other materials, such as a weed guard or a heavier jig weight. But for starters, the above-mentioned items are all you need.
11 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Fish a Flipping Jig
Step 1: Choose the Right Bait
The first step to successfully flipping a jig is choosing the right bait. Jigs come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, so it’s important to select one that best suits your fishing conditions. A general rule of thumb is to use lighter-colored jigs in clear water and darker colors in murky or stained water. You can also experiment with different sizes and weights to see what works best for you.
Step 2: Match the Jig to Your Target Species
Different fish species have different feeding habits, so it’s important to choose a jig that matches your target species. If you’re targeting largemouth bass, opt for a bigger flipping jig with a bulky profile. For smallmouth or spotted bass, a smaller jig will do the trick. But if you’re fishing for panfish or other small game fish, use a mini-flipping jig to increase your chances of success.
Step 3: Select the Right Gear
To effectively fish a flipping jig, you’ll need the right gear. A sturdy fishing rod with a fast tip and strong backbone is crucial for setting the hook and pulling fish out of heavy cover. Pair your rod with a high-speed baitcasting reel to make quick and accurate casts. Use a braided fishing line for its strength and sensitivity, which will help you feel even the slightest bites.
Step 4: Attach Your Trailer
A soft plastic trailer can make a huge difference in enticing strikes from fish. Choose a trailer that complements the color and size of your jig. You can attach the trailer by threading it onto the hook or using plastic glue to secure it. Experiment with different trailers to see which ones work best for you.
Step 5: Identify the Right Spots
Flipping jigs are designed to be fished in and around heavy covers, such as docks, stumps, brush piles, and weed beds. These areas provide shelter for fish and make for perfect ambush points. Take your time to study the body of water you’re fishing in and identify potential hotspots. Although flipping jigs can be used in various types of water, they are most effective in shallow waters with plenty of cover. You can also use flipping jigs to target suspended fish in deeper water.
Step 6: Adjust Jig Weight
The weight of your jig plays a significant role in how it sinks and moves through the water. Heavier jigs will sink faster and allow you to fish deeper waters, while lighter jigs are better for fishing in shallow areas. Adjust the weight of your jig depending on the water depth and cover you’re fishing in. But remember, the heavier the jig, the more likely it will get snagged in heavy cover.
Step 7: Cast and Let it Sink
Once you’ve identified a potential hotspot, make a long and accurate cast towards the target area. Let your jig sink to the bottom and maintain contact with your line so you can feel any bites or changes in resistance. The sinking motion of the jig is often enough to trigger strikes from fish. You can also try adding some subtle movements to the jig by gently twitching your rod tip or hopping the jig along the bottom.
Step 8: Work Your Jig
Once your jig has reached the bottom, it’s time to work it back to the boat or shore. Use a combination of short hops, drags, and pauses to mimic the movement of a crawfish or other prey. The key is to keep your jig in contact with the bottom and make it look as natural as possible. It may take a few tries to get the hang of it, but with practice, you’ll be able to perfect your jig presentation and entice more strikes.
Step 9: Set Your Hook
When you feel a fish strike, don’t immediately set your hook. This is a common mistake that often results in lost fish. Instead, give the fish a second or two to fully take the bait before setting your hook with a quick and firm sweep of your rod. Remember to keep your line tight at all times to prevent the fish from spitting out the jig.
Step 10: Reel and Fight
Once you’ve set the hook, reel in your line and fight the fish. Be patient and take your time to tire out the fish before attempting to land it. The use of a high-speed baitcasting reel will help you quickly retrieve any slack line and keep pressure on the fish. If you’re targeting bigger game fish, be prepared for a long and intense fight.
Step 11: Properly Hook and Release Your Catch
When you’ve successfully landed your catch, it’s important to properly handle and release the fish back into the water. Use a pair of pliers or hook remover to gently remove the hook from the fish’s mouth. If you’re planning on keeping your catch, make sure to follow local fishing regulations and properly store your fish until you can clean and cook it.
Following these step-by-step guidelines on how to fish a flipping jig will help increase your chances of success and make your fishing experience more enjoyable. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep experimenting with different techniques and jigs until you find what works best for you. Happy fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Fish a Flipping Jig in Any Type of Water?
A: While flipping jigs can be used in various types of water, they are most effective in shallow waters with plenty of cover. You can also use flipping jigs to target suspended fish in deeper water.
Q: Can I Use a Flipping Jig for Any Species of Fish?
A: Flipping jigs can be used to target a wide range of fish species, but it’s important to match the jig size and color to your target species for maximum effectiveness.
Q: What Gear Do I Need to Fish a Flipping Jig?
A: To effectively fish a flipping jig, you’ll need a sturdy fishing rod with a fast tip and strong backbone, a high-speed baitcasting reel, and a braided fishing line. It’s also helpful to have soft plastic trailers in various sizes and colors to match your jig. Make sure to check the gear specifications to ensure they are suitable for flipping jigs before using them.
Q: What Are Some Tips for Working My Jig Effectively?
A: Some tips for working your jig effectively include adjusting the weight of your jig depending on water depth and cover, using a combination of short hops, drags, and pauses to mimic natural movement, and keeping your line tight at all times to prevent fish from spitting out the jig. Remember to also experiment with different trailers and techniques to see what works best in different fishing conditions. With practice, you’ll be able to perfect your jig presentation and entice more strikes.
Conclusion
In conclusion on how to fish a flipping jig, fishing a flipping jig can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these tips and techniques, you will be able to improve your skills and catch more fish with this versatile lure. Remember to always switch up your colors and presentation to find what works best in each location. Patience and persistence are key when it comes to mastering the flipping jig.
But most importantly, don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the peacefulness of being out on the water. So go ahead, grab your tackle box, hit the lake, and try out some of these techniques for yourself.
Who knows, you may just end up catching that trophy bass you’ve been dreaming of! And don’t forget to share your fishing stories with us in the comments below or on social media using the hashtag #flippingjigfishing. Now get out there and reel in some big ones! Happy fishing!