jigging

Jigging is a fishing technique that uses a jig, a lure consisting of a weighted head and a soft body or metal blade, designed to move in an erratic vertical pattern. The aim is to imitate injured prey and trigger predatory fish to strike. Jigging is practiced from boats, piers, and, in freshwater, from shore or ice. The technique relies on vertical presentation, often at depth, and relies on the angler's ability to impart sharp or rhythmic jerks followed by pauses to create attractive twitching motions. The retrieved motion is influenced by depth, current, and target species.

Equipment typically includes a jig in suitable weight, a rod with sensitivity and a fast action, a capable reel, and braided or monofilament line. Lure types range from metal jigs to soft plastic bodies set on a jig head. In deep-water or sport fishing, specialized jigs and rods are used for slow pitch or flutter jigging, which involve different cadence and angles to maximize attraction.

Jigging targets a wide range of species, including tuna, snapper, grouper, kingfish, walleye, bass, and other predatory fish, with regional preferences for lure color and size. In addition to saltwater jigging, there is freshwater jigging and ice jigging, each with adapted gear and techniques.

In a separate sense, jigging also refers to performing the jig, a traditional dance form associated with Ireland and Scotland.