Can You Use Jigging Rod for Bottom Fishing?

Jigging rods are a specialized type of fishing rod designed for vertical jigging, a method of fishing where the bait is dropped straight down and then moved up and down in the water column. This technique is often used to Target species like kingfish, snapper, and tuna.

While jigging rods can be used for bottom fishing, it’s important to understand some of the differences between the two methods in order to ensure success.

Lure Selection: Jigging rods are designed to work with light lures, typically weighing 1/4 ounce or less. Due to the light weight of these lures, they are best suited for Targeting fish in shallow water or near structure like reefs or rocks.

Bottom fishing rigs, on the other hand, can handle heavier lures which makes them better suited for Targeting species that inhabit deeper waters.

Reel: Reels used for bottom fishing generally have a larger line capacity than those used for jigging. A larger line capacity allows you to cast out further and retrieve more line when necessary. Jigging reels, on the other hand, are designed with a smaller line capacity which helps with accuracy and control when dropping lures vertically.

Rod Action: The action of a rod largely determines its suitability for various applications. Bottom fishing rods tend to have slower actions than jigging rods since they need to be able to absorb sudden jerks from large fish that may grab the bait at any time.

Jigging rods have faster actions which makes them better suited for quickly lifting lures back up from deep waters.

Conclusion:

While jigging rods can be used for bottom fishing, it is important to understand some of the key differences between both methods in order to make sure you have the right equipment and techniques ready before you hit the water. Bottom fishing rigs are better suited for heavier lures while jigging reels should be paired with lighter lures due their smaller line capacity and faster action.

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Emma Gibson