HOW TO MAKE THE JIKA RIG

Jika rigs can be bought over the counter, but it is very hard to find a ‘mini’ version more suited to LRF species.

It is also fairly easy to make some yourself with small fine-wire split rings, some appropriately sized offset hooks and some dropshot weights.

Hooks for Jika rigs tend to be weedless style with a solid ring attached to the eye, but it is possible to use the same hook you would use for traditional dropshot techniques. However, one of the joys of a Jika rig is the ability to fish the lure weedlessly and, due to the lure dropping vertically, it is easy to drop into heavy cover, such as kelp fronds.

I like a ‘big eye’ hook pattern, such as those sold for use with Cheburaska rigs. The large eye means the split ring can move freely, giving great articulated movement from the lure.

Weights for use with Jika rigs are either column-style or pear-style weights. I prefer a column style because it is a little more low profile and slides through rocky ground a bit more than a pear-shaped lead.

A shiny weight can also add extra flash and attraction, especially when the lure is dropping; I like using them when fishing small baitfish imitations.

The ability to change weights, fish weedless, and get that stand-up presentation on the one rig makes the Jika rig a valuable thing to have in your arsenal. From working creature baits for those crab-munching species, to finesse presentations of sluggo and stick baits for bass and pollack, it’s versatility can really pay off.

1 2 3 Simply take a split ring, ease it apart and attach it to your big-eye pattern hook. Now attach a second split ring to the one running through eye of the hook. Open the clip on the weight using pliers so that the split ring can fit through it. 4 5...