01Sinker selection & function
The sinker is the key component that keeps the bait stable underwater. Size and weight should be chosen to match the target species' prey size and depth.
Small sinkers (4–5 mm) work well in shallow water with light jigs when targeting small prey. Conversely, 6–8 mm sinkers are used with heavier jigs at greater depths to resist water flow.
Sinker material is divided into plastic (durability, price) and metal (weight, diving ability). Metal sinkers offer greater resistance to water flow, minimizing line drift even on windy days.
02Jig tuning & weight adjustment
The jig visualizes bait position at the water surface and detects fish bites. Weight and volume are adjusted according to water flow and depth.
A 0.5–1 g jig is suitable for shallow, calm water, while a 2–3 g jig is used when wind is strong or depth exceeds 15 m. Larger jig volume reduces sensitivity to surface ripples, so in choppy water the center of gravity should be kept low.
Jig shapes are typically cylindrical, conical, or spoon‑shaped; cylindrical jigs handle depth changes well, while spoon‑shaped jigs transmit strong vibrations on a bite. Choose based on the target species' bite characteristics.
- Excessive weight causes the bait to touch the bottom and miss bites.
- If the jig is too light and flutters with surface ripples, bite detection becomes difficult.
03Rig composition·line size·depth
A rig consists of the line, leader, main line, and a weight‑adjusting state (weight). In a typical sinker‑jig combination, a main line diameter of 0.16–0.20 mm is common.
For depths of 5–15 m, use a 0.16 mm main line with a 0.8–1.0 kg state; for 15–30 m, a 0.20 mm line with a 1.2–1.5 kg state is recommended. This balances line strength and resistance to water flow.
Line size selection depends on water temperature and prey distribution. At 10–15 °C, medium‑size bait with 4–6 mm sinkers is efficient; above 20 °C, lighter jigs and smaller sinkers elicit better responses.
04Practical application·cautions
In practice, first assess water flow and wind, then adjust sinker and jig weight accordingly. If wind exceeds 5 m/s, add 0.5 g to the sinker weight and increase jig weight by 0.2 g.
Bite detection requires simultaneous observation of jig movement and line tension changes. When a bite occurs, the jig will drop sharply or wobble; immediately reel in to bring the fish aboard.
Be sure to verify closed seasons and minimum size limit zones. Closed seasons vary by region and year, so always check the latest notices from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Fisheries Information Portal before heading out.