Hey there fellow fishermen. I was writing to see if anyone has had sucess/experience fishing with herring jigs. I talk to people that say how easy it is, I just have a little 10 hook jig on a casting rod. I'm looking for technique help though, Because I haven't had any luck yet. Any ideas would help. Good luck out there.
- Dan

Vashondan,

Herring jigging reminds me of making tea; drop atea bag in some hot water and voila. So find a bait ball and then lower or cast the jig into it. When you feel a tapping either reel or wait for more to bite and then reel up and hoist them into the boat. How long you let your rig sit after getting your first bite depends on how many multiple hook ups you want. Sort of like steeping that tea. Remember though the little buggers get off easy too so don't be greedy. I find a slower steady retrieve through the bait ball increases multiple hook ups and stay ons.

Herring jigging not only "matches the hatch" but it yeilds a far superior bait. Not only is it firmer, longer lasting and more attractive than frozen (duh) but you can even use them live, if you keep changing the water periodically. You can also V pack and freeze em too for leaner times if you want. The only minor complaint I have is that it always seems like the bigger herring are the ones that bite. While I prefer the smaller ones, I will fillet the big boys as "spinners" or to tip hootchies. They're probably great eating too; heck some can get as big as trout! My kids use to get a bigger kick out of herring jigging than salmon fishing. Most guys don't bother with it because they are so impatient to catch a salmon they won't take a couple of minutes to dredge up some fine bait that would probably be far more effective than what they insist on throwing at them. While bait balls aren't what they used to be (and that's a fact) they are still out there. Follow the birds and have that jig ready. Never hurts to save a buck or two either.