How to Fish a Jig Worm for Bass

Pro bass angler Bob Downey shares one of his favorite bass fishing tactics: the jig worm. While regarded as a staple in Minnesota, the jig worm catches bass everywhere and in wide-ranging weather and water conditions. This bait is simple, easy to rig, and consistently lands bass when other tactics fall short.

TACKLE USED (retail links)

JIG HEAD – All Terrain Tackle Mighty Jig, 1/8-ounce: Buy at Omnia Fishing
Buy at Tackle Warehouse
NED JIG HEAD – VMC Ned Rig Jig: Buy at Omnia Fishing, Buy at Tackle Warehouse
WORM 1 – Big Bite Baits Trick Stick: Buy at Omnia Fishing, Buy at Tackle Warehouse
WORM 2 – Zoom Finesse Worm: Buy at Omnia Fishing, Buy at Tackle Warehouse

Downey typically opts for a four-inch green-pumpkin stick worm with a chartreuse mushroom head jig with a longer hook shank. He recommends experimenting with different worm variations. A slender straight-tail finesse worm and a larger five-inch stick worm are other styles to consider.

The rigging process is straightforward. Downey guides us on correctly threading the worm on the hook, stressing the need to rig it straight for a smooth glide on the fall. Similar to a Ned rig, this simple, slim profile bait offers bass different looks without being intrusive.

ROD SETUP

ROD – St. Croix Victory Spinning Rod, 7’1″ MH: Buy at Omnia Fishing, Buy at Tackle Warehouse
REEL – Daiwa Ballistic MQ LT Spinning Reel: Buy at Omnia Fishing, Buy at Tackle Warehouse
LINE – Sufix 832 Braid (Neon Lime), 10-pound: Buy at Omnia Fishing, Buy at Tackle Warehouse
LINE – Sufix Advance Fluorocarbon, 10-pound: Buy at Omnia Fishing, Buy at Tackle Warehouse

Downey’s suggests fishing jig worms along grass lines, allowing the jig worm to get caught momentarily before popping it free. The mushroom head jig has enough bluntness to hang on the grass but pulls free when popped or pulled. This ripping or deflection action often induces a bite like a crankbait hitting the bottom.

Whether a seasoned angler or a novice fisher, the jig worm is a surefire way to catch bass. It’s easy to use, versatile, and cost-effective. So the next time you’re out on the water, try it.