Fishing with jigs is a thrilling experience that requires precision and mastery over different techniques. Two widely popular methods in the angling world are Vertical Speed Jigging and Slow Pitch Jigging. While both are highly effective, they cater to different fishing conditions and styles. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into these jigging techniques and explore their unique features, gear recommendations, and tips to help you master both methods.

 

Vertical Speed Jigging: Fast, Aggressive, and Highly Effective

Technique Breakdown:

Vertical speed jigging involves a series of rapid and sharp movements designed to mimic fleeing prey. The angler makes the jig dart up and down quickly through the water column. The fast action often triggers aggressive strikes from predatory fish, making this technique ideal for those who want an intense fishing experience.

Key Techniques:

• Short upward rod lifts combined with half reel winds
• Long upward lifts followed by fast reel retrieves on the downward motion

Speed & Motion:

As the name suggests, speed is the defining feature of vertical jigging. The jig moves erratically, often imitating the frantic behavior of prey trying to escape. This motion triggers predatory instincts in game fish, leading to fast and aggressive strikes.

Slow Pitch Jigging: Precision, Subtlety, and Flexibility

Technique Breakdown:

In contrast to vertical jigging, slow-pitch jigging emphasizes a more controlled and deliberate approach. The jig moves slowly and rhythmically through the water, mimicking the movements of injured or struggling baitfish. This slower, more nuanced presentation often entices fish that are hesitant to chase faster-moving Jigs.

Key Techniques:

• Basic lift and drop
• Half-winds for flipping the jig with rod action
• Small, controlled lifts for a twitchy action

Speed & Motion:

Slow pitch jigging is all about subtlety. The slower pace provides a natural presentation that works best for targeting species in calmer waters or when fish are less active. The motion is more methodical, mimicking baitfish that are injured or weak.

 

Best Rods, Reels, and Lines for Vertical Speed Jigging and Slow Pitch Jigging

For success in either technique, having the right jigging gear is crucial. Below are the best rods, reels, and lines that work well for both vertical speed jigging and slow pitch jigging.

Best Rods:

Vertical Speed Jigging Rods:

• Rod Length: 5’5” to 6’6” to handle aggressive movements.
• Rod Action: Medium to fast action rods are recommended for quick and sharp movements.
• Recommended Models:

• Shimano Trevala Jigging Rod
• Penn Battalion Vertical Jigging Rod

Slow Pitch Jigging Rods:

• Rod Length: 6’5” to 7’ for flexibility and control.
• Rod Action: Moderate action rods allow for rhythmic and deliberate movements.
• Recommended Models:

• Shimano Game Type Slow J Jigging Rod
• Daiwa Saltiga Slow Pitch Rod

Best Reels:

Vertical Speed Jigging Reels:

• Reel Type: High-speed spinning or conventional reels
• Gear Ratio: 6:1 or higher for fast retrieves.
• Recommended Models:

• Shimano Saragosa SW Spinning Reel
• Daiwa Saltiga Spinning Reel

Slow Pitch Jigging Reels:

• Reel Type: Conventional or spinning reels
• Gear Ratio: 4:1 to 5:1 for precise control.
• Recommended Models:

• Shimano Ocea Jigger Conventional Reel
• Penn Fathom Lever Drag Reel

Best Lines:

Vertical Speed Jigging Lines:

• Line Type: Braided line for strength and low stretch.
• Line Weight: 50-80 lb test to handle large, fast-moving fish.
• Recommended Brands:

• PowerPro Braided Fishing Line
• Sufix 832 Advanced Superline

Slow Pitch Jigging Lines:

• Line Type: Braided line for sensitivity and control.
• Line Weight: 30-50 lb test depending on species.
• Recommended Brands:

• Daiwa J-Braid
• SpiderWire Stealth Braid

 

Comparing the Two Techniques

Aggression vs. Subtlety:

• Vertical speed jigging is more physical, using fast, aggressive movements to provoke strikes.
• Slow pitch jigging offers a subtle approach, ideal for finessing fish that might be reluctant to strike aggressively.

Species Targeted:

• Vertical speed jigging is commonly used for pelagic species like tuna or amberjack.
• Slow pitch jigging is versatile and can target a broader range of species, including reef fish.

Physical Demands:

• Vertical jigging is more demanding, requiring strength and stamina due to the fast-paced rod movements.
• Slow pitch jigging is less strenuous but demands precision and timing to execute the subtle movements effectively.

 

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Technique

1. Fishing Environment:

   • Use vertical speed jigging in deep waters or when targeting fast-moving pelagic species.
   • Slow pitch jigging is great for calmer waters and targeting species that are reluctant to strike fast-moving lures.

2. Target Species:

   • Pelagic species like tuna, amberjack, and kingfish respond well to vertical jigging.
   • Bottom dwellers and reef species like snapper and grouper are more responsive to slow pitch jigging.

3. Your Stamina and Physical Strength:

   • Vertical jigging is intense and can tire you out quickly, especially in deeper waters.
   • Slow pitch jigging is less physically demanding but requires more finesse and patience.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

For Vertical Speed Jigging:

• Over-speeding without control, which can make it difficult for the fish to follow the jig.
• Using the wrong gear, such as lightweight rods or slow-speed reels, which may not handle the aggressive action of this technique.

For Slow Pitch Jigging:

• Being impatient and using too fast of a motion, which undermines the subtle, enticing action needed for this technique.
• Not using a specialized slow pitch rod, which could reduce the effectiveness of your presentation.

 

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Jigging Technique

Both vertical speed jigging and slow pitch jigging are effective techniques that offer distinct advantages based on the fishing conditions and species you are targeting. If you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping, high-speed chase with predatory fish, vertical speed jigging is your go-to method. On the other hand, if you prefer a more nuanced, strategic approach that works across a variety of species, slow pitch jigging is the ideal choice.

By mastering both jigging techniques and using the right gear, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any fishing adventure, adapting to different environments and ensuring successful catches.