Jigging Rods
Jigging rods for kingfish and deep-water species, from short, powerful speed jigging rods to slow pitch and deep-water models. Our range is led by Daiwa and Shimano, alongside Ocean's Legacy, Jig Star, Okuma, PENN and Accurate.
Jigging rods are usually short and rated by PE and jig weight, built to work metal jigs vertically and lift big fish away from the reef. Pair one with a strong jigging reel, load up on knife jigs and assist hooks and cords.
Talk through jigging setups at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about jigging rods
How do I choose a jigging rod by PE rating and jig weight?
Jigging rods list a PE range for braid and a recommended jig weight, such as PE 3 to 5 and 150 to 300 grams. Choose a rod that matches the jig weights you need for your depth and current, and the braid you will use for your target fish. Kingfish jigging in moderate depths often uses PE 3 to 5 rods, while deeper water and heavier currents call for higher ratings.
What is the difference between speed jigging and slow pitch rods?
Speed jigging rods are stiffer and more powerful, designed to rip long knife jigs quickly through the water to trigger kingfish and stand up to hard fights. Slow pitch rods have a softer, parabolic action that loads up and springs back to make the jig flutter and fall slowly, enticing fish like snapper, hapuku and kingfish. Using the right rod makes each technique far more effective.
Why are jigging rods so short?
Short rods, usually around 5 to 6 foot 6, give you more leverage when working heavy jigs and fighting powerful fish, and they are easier to handle on a boat while jigging vertically. A shorter rod also helps lift fish off the bottom quickly, which is crucial with kingfish that dive for the reef. Longer jigging rods suit casting jigs or fishing with spin reels.
Spin or overhead jigging rod - which should I choose?
Spin jigging rods suit anglers who use spin reels and like speed jigging or casting jigs, with larger guides underneath the rod. Overhead jigging rods have smaller guides on top and often a trigger grip, giving a comfortable, controlled setup for working jigs vertically, especially in deeper water. Match the rod to your reel type, and choose the style that feels best for long jigging sessions.
What rod do I need for deep-water jigging?
Deep-water jigging, often in 100 metres or more, needs a rod rated for heavier jigs, sometimes 300 grams and up, with enough backbone to lift big fish from depth while still working the jig effectively. Many anglers use overhead deep-water jigging rods paired with powerful overhead reels or two-speed reels. Thin braid helps the jig sink faster and reduces drag in the current.
Are one-piece jigging rods better than two-piece rods?
One-piece jigging rods have no joint, so they transfer power evenly along the blank, feel more responsive and are slightly stronger, which many serious kingfish anglers prefer. Two-piece rods are easier to transport and store, and quality modern joints have very little effect on performance. If you have the space in your boat or car, a one-piece rod is the purist's choice.