A vibrating jig is one of the newest variations of the skirted bait. Anglers are using the vibrating jig more and more because of its versatility over a standard jig or spinnerbait. The first chatterbait style bait went on sale in 2004 and has evolved to the vibrating jigs we now know. Each company, for the most part, has put their own spin on the vibrating jig. Differences include various skirt offerings, head styles, tungsten, and blade colors and shapes. Now nearly every company sells some form of a vibrating jig. Here are my thoughts on bladed jigs, when I throw them, and how I set them up.
The vibrating jig is one of the most versatile baits in my tackle box. The great thing about this bait is its versatile regardless of water color. With the right combination, it will catch bass anywhere. In stained water the vibrating jig straight up produces bass. The sound and vibration emanating from the blade, makes it easy for bass to locate even in stained water. The blade also gives the bait an erratic motion, like a wounded baitfish, triggering more strikes. While there are dozens of different vibrating jig designs, my favorite is the Commando Tackle Co. Tomahawk bladed jig. This bait has a football jig head design which the blade bounces against on the retrieve providing even more sound. Commando Tackle has a large color selection to fit any fishing needs.
Trailers
There is a wide variety of trailer baits to put on a vibrating jig. Jacob Wheeler, Elite Series Pro, puts a Biffle Bug on his vibrating jig, claiming it provides more action. Generally, anglers use soft plastic swimbaits as trailers. Used alone swimbaits are some of the most subtle and natural baits on the market; however, it is both noisy and erratic when used as a vibrating jig trailer. Another great trailer choice is a basic grub. There truly is no wrong trailer for a vibrating jig.
Where/when to throw
Just like trailer combinations, there is no wrong place to fish a vibrating jig. Some of my primary targets are docks, steep drop offs, rocks, weed lines, and sometimes even bed fishing. Depending on the weather conditions I like to switch the blade color between silver, black, and gold. When choosing skirt colors, I try to pick colors of natural baitfish. I switch up color and blade combinations until the bass tell me what they want for the day.
Equipment
When fishing a vibrating jig I prefer to use a 6:1-6.5:1 gear ratio reel. I find the best fit for my vibrating jig fishing is the Ardent Apex Elite. The Apex has a super light aluminum frame and easily casts long distances. I use a 6’ 10’’ to 7-foot heavy rod with a medium action for better hook sets. Sensitivity is not a must when fishing a vibrating jig because of it extreme erratic action. I fish braid line and a fluorocarbon leader. I find braid casts better than straight fluorocarbon.
Anglers should spend the time to learn the effectiveness of a vibrating jig, it will put bass in the boat nearly year-round. Put what I’ve learned about the vibrating jig to use and catch more and bigger bass in your local waters.
https://www.commandotacklecompany.com/skirted_jigs.html
Beau Turnblom
Instagram – @beauturnblombassfishing
Twitter – @beaubassfishing
