Slow pitch jigging, a technique that has begun to amass a cult-like following in the United States, has proven deadly effective on dozens of species at nearly every depth in the water column.
But what is it, and what is it not? This short post will break it down for you.
What Is Slow Pitch Jigging?
Slow pitch jigging is a technique that uses a centerweighted, keeled jig that is methodically (as the name implies) worked up and down in the water column.
Rather than a diamond jig (which falls straight) or a casting spoon (which has an erratic cadence and is designed to be retrieved to impart its wobble) a slow pitch jig will flutter and dart as it falls, simulating a wounded, dying baitfish, rather than a fleeing one.
But the difference with slow pitch jigging is not just the jig itself, nor how it is worked, but with the rest of the tackle used.
How Does It Differ from Speed and Vertical Jigging?
Speed and vertical jigging rely on much more aggressive techniques wherein the metal is worked aggressively through the water column, in order to elicit strikes from fish seeking fleeing bait.
In this manner, speed jigging is much more akin to the power fishing of freshwater anglers – it draws reaction strikes.
Slow pitch jigging can draw reaction strikes, but it can also be used to coax fish with lockjaw to bite, as the fluttering, dancing movement of the jig closely resembles the action of a struggling, dying baitfish.
What Type of Rod/Reel Setup Should I Use for Slow Pitch Jigging?
You might be surprised at the deceptively light nature of most slow pitch jigging rods, which are generally slow action, medium weight casting rods. They’re designed to lift and scoop the jig, then allow it to fall, releasing it to pursue its native darting, spiraling action that fish find so irresistible.
As for the reel, most fishermen choose a conventional reel with a strong drag and a high retrieval rate, which will make up for the lightness of the rod. Spinning reels can be suitable too – provided the reel has the guts to stand up to your target species; light spinning reels are reserved for near shore light micro jigging.
What Line Type and Test?
Thin-diameter braids help the angler maintain the jig’s position and orientation in the water column – but as for weight, that’s generally determined by target species. You can, however, go lighter than you’re used to – braids in the 20 lb and 30 lb class offer a good balance of thin diameter and strength.
What Species Can I Target with Slow Pitch Jigging?
Pretty much any predatory fish that you can take with an artificial lure will hit a slow pitch jig, including many that are commonly taken on bait, like haddock, cod, black sea bass, and even porgies.
On the east coast, commonly targeted species include:
- Bluefish
- Striped bass
- Fluke
- Tuna
- Amberjack
- Mackerel
- Tilefish
- Grouper
- Snapper
- Cobia
- Barracuda
- Snook
- Sea trout
And countless others; this list is obviously not complete and practically any predatory fish will take a slow pitch jig (or another metal) if the conditions are favorable and the technique is appropriate.
The One Name in Slow Pitch Jigging: Johnny Jigs
Thinking slow pitch jigging is for you? It might be – and the more techniques you can add to your repertoire and tackle to your bag, the more effectively you will be positioned to proffer the right presentation when the time comes. If you want to learn more about the technique, visit Johnny Jigs, the undisputed leader in the industry. Check out their website (as well as their YouTube channel, JohnnyJigsTV) or get in touch with them directly at 954-889-4915 for more information.
