Slow Jig Rods
Slow jig rods with soft, parabolic actions for working slow pitch jigs, inchiku and micro jigs for snapper, tarakihi and kingfish. Our range is led by Daiwa and Shimano, alongside Okuma, PENN and Jig Star.
A slow jig rod loads up as you lift and springs back to make the jig flutter on the drop, which is when most fish bite. Pair one with a baitcaster or small overhead reel, stock up on slow pitch jigs and slow jigs and kabura, or choose a matched slow jig combo.
Feel the action for yourself at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about slow jig rods
What is a parabolic slow jig rod?
A parabolic rod bends evenly through most of its length rather than just at the tip. In slow pitch jigging, that deep bend stores energy as you lift the jig and releases it to flick the jig up and let it flutter down slowly. That fluttering fall is what triggers bites from snapper, hapuku, kingfish and other species. A stiffer rod makes the jig move less naturally.
What PE rating and jig weight should my slow jig rod have?
Slow jig rods are rated by PE and jig weight, such as PE 1 to 2 with jigs of 80 to 200 grams. Lighter rods suit shallow water and smaller jigs for snapper and tarakihi, while heavier ratings handle deeper water, stronger currents and bigger fish. Choose a rod that matches the jig weights you will use most often in your local depths. Many anglers own two rods to cover light and heavy days.
Overhead or spin rod for slow jigging?
Most slow pitch jigging is done with overhead rods and small overhead or baitcaster reels, because the reel sits on top for a comfortable, balanced grip and controlled drops. Spin slow jig rods are available and suit anglers who prefer spin reels or want to cast jigs. If you are setting up specifically for slow jigging, an overhead outfit is the classic choice.
What length slow jig rod is best?
Most slow jig rods are around 6 to 6 foot 8. That length gives enough bend to work the jig with a short lift and wind, while staying easy to handle on the boat. Shorter rods give more control in deep water and with heavier jigs, while slightly longer rods help in shallow water and when drifting. Choose a length that feels comfortable to work rhythmically all day.
Can I use a slow jig rod for micro jigging?
Light slow jig rods in the PE 0.6 to 1.2 range work well for micro jigs and light jigging in shallow water, where small metal jigs are worked for snapper, kahawai and trevally. Dedicated micro jig rods are lighter and softer still. If you plan to do a lot of micro jigging, a light rod designed for that style gives the best feel and action with small jigs.
How do I work a slow pitch jig with the rod?
Slow pitch jigging is about rhythm: lift the rod and wind a short amount of line, then let the rod spring back so the jig flutters and falls on a slightly slack line. Repeat steadily, varying the lift and pause to find what the fish want. Most bites come on the fall, so stay alert for the line stopping or going slack, then wind tight and lift to set the hook.