Jig and Pig Rig: Everything you need to know

The Jig and Pig rig has been a popular fishing technique since the 1970s and involves using a classic jig with a pork rind trailer hence giving it its name “Jig n Pig”. Traditionally the Jig and Pig rig has been known for its use in bass fishing but it can also be used to catch a wide variety of other popular fish species such as pike, walleye and catfish.

Anatomy of a Jig and Pig Setup

At its core the Jig and Pig is quite simple. It consists of two main components including your classic bass jig tipped with a pork trailer. However, there are several types of bass jig and various pork rind trailer options that you can choose.

Different Ways on How to Rig a Jig and Pig

Jig and Pig lures can be customized to suit different fishing conditions and species. Some common variations include:

• Flipping jigs – These have a have a wider hook gap and weed guard to help them navigate through thick cover, while swim jigs have a slimmer profile and streamlined shape for faster retrieves.
• Football jigs – These have a wide, flat head that creates a wobbling motion when dragged along the bottom.
• Finesse jigs – These have a smaller profile and slower sinking rate for more subtle presentations.
• Hair jigs – These are a type of jig and pig lure that use animal hair or synthetic fibers to mimic the look and movement of prey.

How to fish the Jig and Pig rig

To effectively fish with Jig and Pig lures, cast the lure to your desired location and let it sink to the bottom. Once on the bottom, slowly raise your rod tip and let the lure fall back down as your reel in line. This motion iminates natural movement of prey and is a very effective way in catching more bass.

Besides the technique where you slowly hop along the bottom, you can also swim or drag a pig and jig too. It is always recommended to switch up your techniqus in order to test what the fish are wanting.

Setting the hook

The way you set the hook is really going to depend on what type of techinique you are doing at that time. If you are hoping your jig along the bottom then do a quick upward snap of the rod. If you are dragging then the best thing you can do is yank your rod the same direction you’re dragging. If you are swimming the jig, pull up and to the side in order to set the hook.

Where to use the Jig and Pig

The best place to use a Jig n Pig is where there is are lot of weeds or cover. Bass jigs in general are used in these types of situations because they are relatively “weedless.” These are also a great option to throw if you are trying to get your bait in hard to reach locations or in high wind situations since the leaded weight in the jig helps a lot in keeping your casts accurate.

When to use the Jig and Pig

The optimal times to fish with Jig and Pig lures are during the early morning and late afternoon when fish are most active. During these times, the water is cooler, and fish are more likely to feed. However, anglers can use Jig and Pig lures effectively throughout the day, particularly when the water is murky or overcast since the pork smell allows fish to more easily locate your bait. When fishing with Jig and Pig lures, anglers should also consider the time of year. In the spring and fall, fish are more active and can be found in shallower waters. In the summer months, fish are more likely to be found in deeper, cooler water.

Target species

Jig and Pig lures are versatile and can be used to catch a wide range of fish species however they are particularly effective for targeting certain species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and northern pike since these fish actively feed on crayfish. Typically when you are targeting these species specifically, I would recommend using a jig with a darker color like a black or brown since these colors mimic natural prey such as crayfish. For other species like walleye or crappie, try using lighter colored jigs.

Have the correct fishing gear

Rod and Reel

When it comes to selecting a rod and reel I would recommend using a 7 ft medium heavy action rod with a fast tip that can provide you with enough sensitivity to detect the bite and enough power to really set the hook.

As for your reel, bait casters with a high gear ration is always a good option so that you can flip your jig under docs and cover with pinpoint accuracy. With that being said, you can get away with using a spinning reel if you’re in more of an open water situation.

Line and Leader

Anytime you’re throwing a jig it is recommended to use at least 12 lb test. This will help prevent your line from snapping if you get a snag when casting as well as to fight those big bass. Monofilament is a decent choice, especially if your fishing a lot of rocky areas where abrasion to your line is a concern. For clear water conditions I would recommend using a braided line to add sensitivity while bumping on the bottom and add about 6 – 8 ft of fluorocarbon liter in order to make it less visible. If you’re fishing stained water conditions you can likely directly tie braided line to your jig.

Jig and Pig Lures

Have a variety of jig sizes as well as trailer sizes and colors. Water conditions can have a huge impact on what a fish is willing to eat and casting various colors and sizes will provide you with the best chance possible in catching them.

Conclusion

A Jig n Pig consists of a classic bass jig tipped with a pork trailer. Using a Jig and Pig setup is a great way to get bass or other predatory species interested in biting when other lures aren’t working. An ideal time to use this setup is when fishing conditions are difficult and there are a lot of weeds or vegetation. It is also a great time to throw this bait when the water is murky and banging your heavy jig in to the rocks helps the fish hone in on your bait.

If you’re interesting in learning more about other great bass rigs, check out Punch Rig or the Neko Rig.