Can you explain the term “tightlining”

Tightlining is a term giving to a type of fishing that many seasoned fishermen use when certain circumstances require it.

So just what is this tightlining technique?

You tie a quarter ounce (or above) jig to the end of your line, without any other fishign tackle, then you cast out as normal letting the bait gently sink to the bottom. Once the bait is at the bottom you gently tug the bait back towards you, keeping the line taut and letting it bounce along the bottom as it goes.

Why Tightline? 

First of all it is important to note that tightlining is mainly used during the winter months when the fish become more sedentary and sit at the bottom of the water. When it comes to feeding the fish are generally less aggressive than during the summer months, more gently tugging at the bait rather than trying to really pull it off. Allegedly the reason why fish do this is because the water temperature is so cold.

So the reason for tightlining is that the fish are all at the bottom of the water resting in a sedentary manner. As you let the bait sink to the bottom and gently bounce it back the bait will bounce close to the fish and may call the fish to action and have a bite.

Alot of fisherman say that in the winter months they can use the tightlining technique to catch fish all day, while other fishermen using normal techniques sit down for hours without getting one single bite.

Tags: crappie fishing gear, crappie fishing jigs, crappie fishing in texas, crappie jig fishing, crappie fishing indiana, fall crappie fishing