Blackfish Jigs ??

[Gerry Zagorski]

So... What do all you Sharpies think about Blackfish jigs? Effective or not, any particular method of fishing them that works best, are you using spinning or conventional gear and do you use them just for shallow fishing or deep too.

Going to give them a shot and am interested in everyone's experience.

[mikeytheflop]

Very big on Long Island and the Sound. Spinning reels and the jigs tipped with crab. Very effective, same as bucktailing - toss it up current and work it back to you. Shallow application - I have tried it deep but its much more difficult to work, very condition dependent.

http://www.thehulltruth.com/attachments/sportfishing-charters-forum/277048d1351178713-blackfish-tautog-jig-m3nnrk0lhdnpdspcp_wrhfq.jpg

Enjoy its fun! :D

[PeteyHD]

I have been very successful with lightweight jigs in the PP canal. Fish them like a traditional rig without moving them too much. I use the flat sided as pictured above in less than 1 oz for shallow fishing. Braid is a must with mono leader and a loop to allow the jig to swing freely and naturally.

As far as tackle goes. I use a Daiwa lexa and lighter jigging rod like you would use for fluke with decent backbone. I know a lot of guys like spinners but I'm not a fan for blackfish...go baitcasting!

I just purchased a flat jig mold in 2-3oz and modified it for the right hooks and will make some to try in less than 50 FOW. Will post back with results once i fight daylight savings and actually melt some in this coldddd.

[Gerry Zagorski]

Great tips guys... Keep them coming please. Be interested to find out how you make out with the heavier ones in deeper water as I've also read they are much better for suited for shallower water, 30 feet or less.

I've also heard you dont set the hook like you would on a normal bait, you just lift the rod as the fish is swimming with it. Any truth to that??

[PeteyHD]

Great tips guys... Keep them coming please. Be interested to find out how you make out with the heavier ones in deeper water as I've also read they are much better for suited for shallower water, 30 feet or less.

I've also heard you dont set the hook like you would on a normal bait, you just lift the rod as the fish is swimming with it. Any truth to that??

Many times in the canal I have had fish swim away with my light jig. Since I was in less than 15ft of water I would literally see my line move as he took it. I have always set the hook, Gerry I fish them the same as I would a traditional rig just the only difference is you don't get hung up as much and if you do it slips right out with a little wiggle.

[PeteyHD]

Here's the lovely woman who lets me fish

[tropics]

I think jigemup uses 5 & 6 oz. in 70'
Buck Tail Boys had them last year at the shows, I don't know if Sam makes them

[Sharkyispy]

Gerry, fished with a guy from Long Island on a boat on ce who had the flat ones like this and the crab shaped jigs also. He was nailing them. His technique was as you said, lifting up as the fish takes in the crab to set the hook. I have them in my box and used the crab version with some success. Sam doesn't make these unfortunately. There is also a "banana" style jig I have seen some use with success. I'll be tossing one down on PUOSU....haven't tried in deep water and have heard quite a bit about using in shallow depths primarily.

[Gerry Zagorski]

Here's the lovely woman who lets me fish

Nice catch Petey!!

[HDMarc]

I've read that you have to use the loop knot when attaching the jig. Saw it on one specific manufacturer's website out of New Rochelle, NY, wasn't sure if I could post their website here or not.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inQJV0KKzAI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-VmXJLmnM8

[PeteyHD]

My offshore seabass trip leaving last night was cancelled so I will be hopping on the Lady M on Sunday with my dad and buddy. That gives me enough time to mold some jigs tomorrow. Not sure if I will have enough time to Paint/finish them but might either hit them with canned spray for now or use them raw.

Will let you know how they work out and if I can hold bottom with 3oz flat jigs and 30lb braid.

[Sharkyispy]

Gerry, check this out:

http://www.worldfishingnetwork.com/tips/video/how-to-jigging-with-crabs

[Gerry Zagorski]

Nice Mike, thanks for passing that along.

[PeteyHD]

Caught 2 on the jig today in about 50 FT. 3oz homemade flat sided jig. Sorry for the crappy pic.