Football jigs are essential tools in any angler's arsenal, especially when targeting bottom-dwelling fish species like bass. The design and components of a football jig can significantly impact its effectiveness in enticing strikes and landing that prized catch. From the hook quality to the jig head design, each element plays a crucial role in determining the jig's performance in the water. Understanding what makes the best football jigs stand out can make a significant difference in your fishing success.
When it comes to selecting the best football jigs for your fishing adventures, several key factors come into play. The quality of the hook, the design of the jig head, the silicone skirt's composition, the retrieval style, and the construction material all contribute to the overall performance of the jig. By paying attention to these essential elements and choosing jigs that excel in each category, anglers can increase their chances of hooking more fish and enjoying a successful day on the water. In this guide, we will explore the critical features that define the best football jigs in 2024, helping you make informed decisions when adding to your tackle box.
Strike King Tour Grade Football Jig: Best Jig for Rocky Bottoms
Strike King Tour Grade Football Head Jig -- $4.24(Discount Tackle)
Strike King Tour Grade Football Jig,White -- $4.19(Bass Pro Shops)
Strike King Tour Grade Football Jig, Black Blue -- $4.19(Cabela's)
Why We Picked It
The Strike King Tour Grade Football Jig is a top choice for anglers looking for a reliable and effective jig for bass fishing. Its durable construction and specialized head design make it an excellent tool for navigating rocky bottoms, where bass often hide. The jig's performance in such environments can significantly increase the chances of a successful catch.
Who It's For
This jig is best suited for experienced anglers who understand the nuances of jig fishing and are looking to target bass in rocky or structured underwater terrains. It's also a good fit for those who appreciate quality tackle and are willing to invest in gear that can withstand the rigors of frequent use.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Durable construction ensures longevity and consistent performance | ❌ Limited color selection may not satisfy all anglers' preferences |
| ✅ Streamlined head design minimizes snags in rocky environments | ❌ Some may find the price point slightly higher compared to basic jigs |
| ✅ Available in essential colors like White and Black Blue to match various fishing conditions | ❌ May not be as versatile for fishing in non-rocky or vegetative areas |
Dirty Jigs Tour Level Football Jig: Best Jig for Realistic Presentation
Dirty Jigs Tour Level Finesse Football Jig -- $9.35(Amazon)
Dirty Jigs Tour Level Finesse Football Jig TLFFOCH-38 -- $5.49(MidwayUSA)
Why We Picked It
The Dirty Jigs Tour Level Football Jig is selected for its innovative design that caters to the needs of serious anglers. Its unique head design and recessed line tie minimize hang-ups, while the realistic colors and premium powder coat finish provide a natural presentation that is essential when fishing in clear and deep waters. The full-length skirt not only adds to the jig's realism but also offers customization options for the angler.
Who It's For
This jig is best suited for experienced anglers who are looking to up their game in clear and deep water fishing. It's designed for those who appreciate attention to detail and are willing to invest in a higher-quality jig that could potentially lead to better results. It may not be the best fit for casual fishers or those on a tight budget.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Unique head design reduces hang-ups | ❌ Higher price point than some competitors |
| ✅ Realistic colors with premium powder coat finish | ❌ May not be necessary for casual fishing |
| ✅ Customizable full-length skirt | ❌ Specifically designed for clear and deep water, which may not be versatile for all conditions |
Bass Pro Shops Enticer Pro Series Football Jig: Best Deep Water Fishing Jig
Bass Pro Shops ENTICER Pro Series Weedless Football Jigheads - Black -- $5.79(Bass Pro Shops)
Bass Pro Shops ENTICER Pro Series Weedless Football Jigheads - 1/4 oz. -... -- $5.79(Cabela's)
Variety Lot Of 4 Bass Pro Shops Enticer Pro Series Football Jig Weight -- $14.99(eBay - millerfamily)
Why We Picked It
The Bass Pro Shops Enticer Pro Series Football Jig is selected for its exceptional performance in fishing, particularly in deep water scenarios. Its high-quality hook ensures a good catch, while the well-balanced head design promotes long casts, making it a reliable choice for anglers looking to enhance their fishing experience.
Who It's For
This jig is best suited for anglers who are serious about their fishing game and often find themselves casting in deep waters. It's ideal for those who appreciate a well-crafted lure that can handle the rigors of frequent use, even if it means the potential for some wear and tear over time.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-quality hook for reliable catching | ❌ Paint on the head may chip with heavy use |
| ✅ Well-balanced head for long-distance casting | ❌ |
| ✅ Weedless design for fewer snags | ❌ |
Missile Baits Ike's Mini Flip Jig: Compact Precision for Finesse Fishing
Ike's Mini Flip Jig 3/8 Ounce Jig with Fine Cut Green Pumpkin Orange Ski... -- $9.28(Amazon)
Ike's Mini Flip Jig -- $6.48(Amazon)
Ike's Mini Flip Jig by Missile Jigs - Downsized Flipping and Casting Jig... -- $10.35(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Missile Baits Ike's Mini Flip Jig stands out for its innovative design tailored for finesse fishing, offering an exceptional balance and a high hookup ratio. Its compact size, combined with a perfectly angled weed guard, allows it to navigate through the toughest cover almost effortlessly. Designed by fishing pros Mike Iaconelli and John Crews, this jig is engineered to enhance your fishing experience by providing a durable, well-balanced lure that can handle a variety of fishing conditions.
Who It's For
This jig is ideal for anglers looking for a versatile, high-quality lure for bass fishing, especially in situations requiring finesse and precision. It's best suited for those targeting smaller to medium-sized fish in dense cover or clear water conditions where a subtler approach is needed. However, it might not be the first choice for anglers targeting larger fish in open water due to its smaller profile.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Extremely well balanced for precise casting and flipping | ❌ Smaller profile may not attract larger fish |
| ✅ Compact design with a perfectly angled weed guard for navigating through tough cover | ❌ May not be as effective in open water conditions |
| ✅ Durable construction with a 4/0 VMC custom hook for a good hookup ratio | ❌ Limited to finesse fishing situations |
War Eagle Heavy Finesse Jig: Best Heavy-Duty Finesse Jig for Tough Conditions
War Eagle Heavy Finesse Jig, Wild Craw -- $6.99(Harpeth River Outfitters)
War Eagle Heavy Finesse Jig Bass Fishing Lure -- $6.99(Amazon)
War Eagle Heavy Finesse Jig - 1/2 oz / Black Blue -- $6.99(Bass Pro Shops)
Heavy Finesse War Jig Bass Fishing Eagle Lure 1/2 0z 2 Pack -- $6.6(Amazon)
War Eagle Heavy Finesse Jig, Pond Scum Perch -- $6.79(Omnia Fishing)
Why We Picked It
The War Eagle Heavy Finesse Jig is a robust lure designed for anglers who face challenging fishing environments and require a durable jig that can handle big fish and heavy cover. Its heavy wire hook and thick weed guard make it ideal for dragging across rocky bottoms or flipping near dense wood without getting snagged. The premium skirt and flashy colors enhance its visibility and attractiveness to fish in various conditions.
Who It's For
This jig is best suited for experienced anglers who often fish in areas with heavy cover or who are targeting larger fish species. It's also a good fit for those who prefer casting techniques and need a lure that can withstand the rigors of aggressive fishing. However, it may not be the best choice for beginners or those using lighter tackle setups, as its weight and size could be overwhelming.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Heavy wire hook suitable for big fish | ❌ May be too heavy for light tackle |
| ✅ Thick weed guard for snag-free fishing | ❌ Not ideal for novice anglers |
| ✅ Flashy skirt colors for various conditions | ❌ Could be overkill for less challenging fishing environments |
Z-Man CrossEyeZ Football Jig: Innovative Design for Serious Anglers
Z Man Cefb 34 Crosseyez Football Jig 3 4 Oz -- $10.12(Amazon)
CrossEyeZ Football Jig -- $8.93(Amazon)
Z-Man CrossEyeZ - Flipping Jig 3/8oz - CEFL38-08 -- $4.49(eBay - alfstackle04)
Why We Picked It
The Z-Man CrossEyeZ Football Jig is a meticulously designed fishing jig, created by Bassmaster Elite Series pro David Walker. It combines a traditional football-shaped head with a custom molded v-shaped weedguard, making it ideal for navigating through rocky or gravel-covered bottoms without snagging. Its unique cross-eye design not only adds to its visual appeal but also aids in its performance in snag-prone areas. Equipped with a 5/0 long shank, round bend VMC black nickel hook, it's perfect for targeting larger bass. The hand-tied 100% silicone skirts, designed by David Walker himself, come in carefully chosen color schemes to enhance its effectiveness.
Who It's For
This jig is best suited for serious anglers aiming to catch big bass, especially those who appreciate innovative design in their tackle. It's particularly effective for those fishing in areas with lots of snags, such as rocky or gravel bottoms. While its unique design might not appeal to traditionalists, it's a game-changer for anglers looking for a high-performance jig that stands out from the rest.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Custom molded v-shaped weedguard allows for snag-free fishing in challenging terrains. | ❌ Unique cross-eye design might not appeal to traditionalist anglers. |
| ✅ 5/0 long shank, round bend VMC black nickel hook ideal for catching larger bass. | ❌ Slightly higher price point due to its premium features and design. |
| ✅ Hand-tied 100% silicone skirts in unique color schemes designed by a Bassmaster Elite Series pro. | ❌ Specific design may limit its versatility across all fishing conditions. |
Gambler Football Jighead: Best Customizable Football Jighead
Gambler Baits 3/8oz Black Wrecking Ball Football Jig Heads 4/0 Two -- $14.99(eBay - personalaccount)
Gambler Baits 3/4oz Black Wrecking Ball Football Jig Heads 4/0 Two -- $14.99(eBay - personalaccount)
Gambler Stand-up Football Jig 1/2 -- $5.99(99 Strikes Fishing Co)
Why We Picked It
The Gambler Football Jighead is selected for its reputation for having a sharp hook and a durable head, making it a reliable choice for anglers who prefer to have a personalized touch on their tackle. Its design is intended for those who enjoy the process of customizing their jigs with their choice of skirts, allowing for a tailored fishing experience.
Who It's For
This jighead is best suited for experienced anglers who appreciate the art of lure customization and understand the benefits of a football jighead design. It's ideal for those who are looking to target bass in rocky or uneven bottom conditions where the football shape can help reduce snags.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Sharp hook for better penetration | ❌ Does not include a skirt, requiring additional purchases |
| ✅ Durable head design for longevity | ❌ May not be suitable for beginners who prefer pre-assembled jigs |
| ✅ Allows for personalized skirt customization | ❌ Customization requires additional time and effort |
Terminator Pro Series Jig: Versatile Fishing Jig for All Anglers
Terminator Pro's Jig -- $8.95(Amazon)
Terminator Pro's Jig (Electric Blue, 1-Ounce) -- $8.66(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Terminator Pro Series Jig stands out for its versatility and design, tailored for anglers seeking a reliable jig for various fishing conditions. Its silicone skirt, extended brush guard, and heavy VMC Black Nickel hook make it a formidable choice for flipping, pitching, and casting in and around cover. The jig's unique head design allows for effective penetration in vegetation and structure, making it a go-to option for both novice and experienced fishermen.
Who It's For
This jig is best suited for anglers who appreciate precision and versatility in their fishing tackle. Whether you're targeting bass in heavy cover or need a reliable jig for open water fishing, the Terminator Pro Series Jig offers the features needed for success. However, it may not be the best choice for those who prefer a softer brush guard directly out of the package.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Custom silicone skirt and color-matched brush guard for effective camouflage and attraction | ❌ Some users report the brush guard may be too stiff out of the package, potentially affecting usability |
| ✅ Heavy VMC Black Nickel hook designed for durability and secure hooksets | ❌ Limited to a single rattle, which may not be sufficient for anglers who prefer multiple sound options |
| ✅ Available in 12 colors and 5 weight options, offering versatility for different fishing conditions | ❌ While versatile, the specific design may not cater to all fishing techniques equally |
Jewel Baits Football Jig: Best Jig for Realistic Deep Water Action
Jewel Baits Pee-wee Football HD Jig 1/2 oz / PB&J -- $6.59(Copperstate Tackle)
Football Jig -- $5.99(Amazon)
Jewel Baits Pee-wee Football Jig 3/16 oz / First Down -- $5.79(Walmart - Baitwrx)
Jewel Bait Company Pee Wee Football 5/16 oz 1st Down Jig -- $7.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Jewel Baits Football Jig is a top choice for anglers looking to improve their deep water and heavy cover fishing game. Its ultra-fine silicone skirt and precision-balanced head are engineered to provide a lifelike action that mimics real prey, making it irresistible to bass. The design is optimized for navigating through challenging environments like rocks, brush, and treetops where trophy fish often hide.
Who It's For
This jig is ideal for experienced anglers who understand the nuances of fishing in deep or swift waters and heavy cover. It's especially suited for those targeting bass and looking for a jig that can handle the complexity of such environments. However, it may not be the best choice for those targeting larger fish that could potentially bend the lighter wire hook.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Ultra-fine silicone skirt for lifelike action | ❌ Lighter wire hook may bend with larger fish |
| ✅ Precision-balanced head for realistic movement | ❌ May require more skill to use effectively |
| ✅ Designed to navigate through rocks, brush, and treetops | ❌ Specifically tailored for bass, which may not suit all anglers |
Thanks for checking out the best football jigs of 2024! If you have any more questions or need further recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy fishing!