Blackfish Jig Reel

[Gerry Zagorski]

This is totally different then rig fishing where you drop down 8 or 10 ounces, keep it still and wait for a big thump.... It's a way different feel all together.

They key to any reel for this type of finesse feel fishing, be it a spinner or conventional is to keep it light (weight wise) as possible... A light set up allows you to notice and feel the slightest scratches, ticks, bites, change in jig motion or difference of the weight of the jig, all if which is your clue that you have a fish working you.

As important, the reel also has to balance well on a light and sensitive rod with enough backbone to set the hook and pull the fish out of the wreck. No fiberglass rods here... They've got to be some sort of composite or they'll be too heavy....

If you don't go light you're going to be reeling up a lot of empty hooks because your bait's been stolen and you didn't even know it.