Help with swim jigs

[pondassasin]

I've just recently started using swim jigs and I've had some success in my pond but have yet to take it to the lake.  My main frustration with them has been the inconsistency in the jigs not rolling over.  Sometimes when I rig them (all with 4-5" single tail grub) they run true even when burned up near the top.  Other times they will roll to one side.  Am I not rigging the grub straight?  Are the strands making the jig roll over?  Any help would be hugely appreciated as I am going to the lake this weekend and would like to spend more time fishing and less time tuning my bait.  Thanks in advance!

[SoFlaBassAddict]

I'd start with checking the trailer.  That is usually the problem with the jig rolling over.  The same will hold true with spinnerbaits that have a plastic trailer added.  If it isn't straight, the lure will want to lean to one side or the other.  Afterwards you can check the skirt to see if it has been bunched up more on one side.  Spread it out evenly across the jig if you think that may be the problem.  Sometimes it's also the jig.  Not all swim jigs are created equal.

[NateFollmer]

Make sure the strands are balanced (sometimes some will shift to 1 side and set the jig off balance), make sure the trailer is rigged straight and doesn't have any odd 'lumps' in it from it not being on the hook right and finally make sure your hook isn't bent.

Is this the same jig brand that is flipping or is it different brands? Some are just made cheaply and aren't 'balanced' and just won't run straight.

[pondassasin]

Thank you both for your replies.  I've had this problem with strike kings as well as omega's.  It must be a rigging or skirt problem.  I've noticed sometimes the skirt will bunch up and I try to spread them out evenly.  I guess a little practice will make my rigging perfect.  Any brand suggestions?

[intheweeds]

I use the Strike King swim jigs all the time and have not had a problem, but I have never used a grub as a trailer. I have only used a Baby Rage Craw for the trailer, so maybe it is the grub not being rigged straight that is causing the problem. I also really like the KVD swim jigs. I hope this helps. Good luck this weekend!

[pondassasin]

Thanks,i might have to try those out this weekend.  How do you rig the craw, do you thread it like a grub?

[J Francho]

[movedhere] General Bass Fishing Forum [move by] J Francho.

[lavbasser]

If the jig still rolls without any trailer then you know it is not the grub.  Also, just a few torn skirt strands can cause this as well. 

[Vinny Chase]

I have had the same problem with a few "off" brands, but I recently switched all my jigs to North Star Custom Baits and its been the best decision I have made in regards to fishing.

[intheweeds]

I rig the craw just like a grub. The Rage baby craw has a center line running down the head so you can get the hook centered. Good idea lavbasser, run the jig by itself. Vinny, I have heard a lot of good things about North Star Custom Baits, but I have never tried them. Also Dirty Jigs look nice too. I am going to try and tie my own jigs this winter. cadman sent me some nice samples of the jig heads that he makes, they are very nice.

[SoFlaBassAddict]

Dirty jigs makes an awesome swim jig.  They're a little bit on the pricey side, but worth it.

[pondassasin]

I appreciate all the advice.  I will try and run them solo and also try the craw for a trailer.  I will keep y'all posted after the trip...hopefully with some pics

[hookset on 3]

The shape and balance of the jig head is crucial to the lure swimming upright.

My fav. for this is the All Terrain Swim Jig. The head is shaped like a v-hull boat bottom. Even if it gets knocked over, it rights itself quickly.

hookset

[T-rig]

I use the Buckeye J-Will Swimbait Heads und put on a skirt (any good skirt will do). Never rolls over but it's only good in open water (no weed guard).

In cover I use the Revenge Flip Jigs. Work great as swim jigs!

[RandySBreth]

Wow- what trailer is that in the picture?

[cigarleaf]

Wow- what trailer is that in the picture?

It looks like the Keitech Swing Impact FAT in sexy shad. Can't tell what size it is.

[T-rig]

It looks like the Keitech Swing Impact FAT in sexy shad. Can't tell what size it is.

That's right! It's the 4.8" size.

[pondassasin]

Wanted to say thanks again for all the advice and give yall an update.  Went to Orange lake a couple weekends ago, didn't catch many, but I did snag the big bass of the day between my friend and his dad (nice 4 pounder).  I've also been tearing them up in my ponds I fish.  I've been using a 1/4 oz strike king bluegill color with a wat/red baby rage craw trailer and have had zero problems with them rolling over.  I just love throwing one a few feet from the bank in about a foot of water and burning it back and seeing the wake of a fish about to tear it up.  I've definitely found a new confidence bait!