Ice-fishing jigs: How to pick the best size

Ice anglers often wonder whether they should use the heaviest or lightest jig possible when the winter bite gets tough. I always opt for the wispiest weight. Why? First, consider that tough, turned-off winter walleye, whitefish, crappies, yellow perch and brook trout typically swim close to the bottom.

You can often attract them to investigate your jig and live bait or soft-plastic dressing, but then they snub their noses and swim away. The next time you see that happen on your sonar, tie on a featherweight jig and dressing, and lay it on the bottom. You’ll be amazed how often the fish will suck it up, but only if you use a 1/32- to 1/16-ounce jig. A heavier offering will typically go untouched, buried out of sight in the soft bottom.

Every Friday this winter we’ll be sharing Outdoor Canada’s coolest ice-fishing tips for 2019. Check back often for the latest tackle, tips and techniques for icing more walleye, trout, perch, northern pike, lake trout, crappies and whitefish.