Yes, there is a right way to rig soft baits on jig heads, and there are many wrong ways. By the end of this piece, you’ll know if you’ve been doing it right this whole time, and if not, what to change.
As for presentation and technique, that’s a topic for another time. At least this post will set you up for success.
How to Rig
There are many classes of soft baits that can be rigged on jig heads, but it’s likely that the two most common are curl-tail grubs and paddle tails.
With a grub, you want the lure oriented so that the tail is curled downward. To do so, hold the lure over the point of the hook so that the tail is pointed up: push the point of the hook through the body of the grub, curling it around so that when the soft bait is pressed up against the jig head, the tail will be pointed down. This will ensure that it produces the desired action in the water.
(Can you rig a grub “tail up”? Sure, and lots of fishermen do. It’s just that the lure is designed to swim properly with the tail down.)
As for swim baits, specifically paddletails, you want them oriented so that they are not inverted. This requires you to follow the same technique, starting with the lure upside down with respect to the hook; push the point of the hook through the body of the lure, threading the lure around the bend of the book, until the nose of the paddletail is pressed up against the jig head itself.
All in all, learning the proper way to rig a jig head, as basic as it is, will ensure that the soft bait produces the desired action and fouls itself less on the hook. When rigged right, you will be more likely to get more solid, committed strikes, and the lure will run true.
Not All Jig Heads Are Created Equal
You put good money into your soft baits, so don’t skimp on the jig heads. Quality jig heads are worth the price; here are some things to look for.
- Quality hooks, like Mustad hooks, that are stronger and more corrosion resistant, which will last up longer in saltwater use.
- The best jig head designs have some sort of lock or retainer that keeps the soft bait from fouling or slipping off the hook. Most just have a barb to secure the plastic, but some are made with high-quality screw locks.
- Quality jig heads will have eye spots, and some will even have 3D holographic eyes. This might seem like an insignificant feature, but common consensus is that gamefish identify prey (at least in part) by the presence of eyes. Therefore, jig heads with eyes or at least eye spots may perform better than plain, naked lead versions.
Where to Get Saltwater-Grade Jig Heads and Other Tackle Online
Don’t want to get gouged by the local bait shop at your destination? Get some of your tackle online at Johnny Jigs in advance of your trip. They carry a wide range of tackle, including terminal tackle – jig heads, baits and more. Check out their website for more information.
