Most jigs can be fished in several ways. Vertical Jigging is simply
dropping a jig straight down to the correct depth, and moving it up and
down a few inches, slowly, at intervals. This can even be done from
shore with a cane pole. Sometimes, this is the only way to fish in
thick brush, fallen timber or other dense structure. It is THE method
for pulling crappie out of heavy cover, and is extremely effective for
placing a jig right in front of a moody, suspending slab-side. This
method will produce when all others fail, if the right colors are used.
Two jigs can be rigged in tandem with this method as well.
Next is the Bobber Rig. Either one, or two jigs in tandem, are rigged
at the correct depth under a slip bobber. Then the rig is cast to
likely spots and retrieved slowly in short, periodic jerks. Or, in a
current such as below tail-races, it can be cast upstream and allowed
to drift down. This is another effective method for suspended crappie.
It’s best to set the depth close to the thermo-cline.
Lastly, jigs can be cast and retrieved like a spinner-bait. This is the
least effective method for controlling your depth. All these methods
produce crappie at different times. The trick is to match your
technique to the prevailing conditions.
One method I use when crappie get finicky may be a bit cheesy, but it
works. I will cast a jig out under a bobber and let it sit. Then I will
take another rod rigged with a crank-bait and cast it out beyond where
the jig is. I rapidly reel the crank-bait up to, and past the bobber
with the jig. I repeat as necessary. To a nearby crappie, it appears as
if a smaller fish is attacking the jig, in effect stealing the crappies
potential meal. This is something no predator can ignore. The crappie
will savagely hit the jig before the crank-bait can get it, thus
putting the smaller fish in its proper place. Unorthodox? Absolutely,
but it really works. Try it sometime.
A whole book can be written on crappie tricks, but this will give you a
place to start.
Happy Fishing.
To get the full "The Jig Is Up For Crappie" article you'll need to download it here.
