There are plenty of high-quality rods on the market that are specifically designed for this type of fishing, but some of them stand out from others. Jigging is a popular technique for catching walleyes, and having the right rod can make a huge difference.
First and foremost, let’s answer the question: what should I look for in a jigging rod for walleye? You want a rod that is sensitive enough to detect even the slightest bite. Walleyes are known for being finicky biters, so having a rod that can pick up on those subtle movements is ideal.
You’ll also want a rod that is strong enough to handle the fight once you do hook a walleye. A rod with a fast action tip and medium light power is a good place to start. For length, I suggest anything between 5’5″ and 7′.
Keep in mind that, for example, you choose a medium power rod instead of a medium-light, there won’t be any major issues in handling the fish. If you make small adjustments like this that may fit your needs better, you’re going to enjoy fishing more. Just make sure to keep close to these general guidelines if you want to get the best out of your walleye fishing.
So keep reading to discover which rod fits you the best and some more information about walleye fishing and techniques.
Top Walleye Jigging Rods
These rods come in a variety of configurations, so you can be sure to find one that fits your preferences. Every rod on this list fits the guidelines from above, so you can get a sensitive, strong rod that will help you catch more walleye than ever.
Here are some of the top walleye jigging rods on the market:
St. Croix Legend Tournament Walleye
The St. Croix Legend Tournament Walleye is a top-of-the-line rod that is designed specifically for walleye fishing. You get everything you might expect at this price: high-quality materials, such as Fuji guides with alconite rings. It’s light, sensitive and strong. In fact, you can even feel how the lure bumps and moves in the water. The only disadvantage is the price tag, but it is justified by the overall quality.
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Fenwick Elite Tech Walleye
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This is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality rod at a reasonable price. For almost half the price of the previous rod, you get excellent sensitivity and comfort. It’s specifically designed for light and ultra-light fishing, so keep this in mind if you plan on catching some monster walleye. It has an overall comfortable build, with a nice cork grip and the unique hidden reel seats.
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TFO Professional Walleye Rod
This rod is designed specifically for walleye fishing and is focused on being as sensitive as possible. I would say it fits in the mid-price range and the quality for the price is very good. The rod is also very lightweight, which makes it easy to use for extended periods of time. The carbon blanks also offer excellent durability, so don’t get fooled by it’s light feel.
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St. Croix Avid Series
This USA-made rod is a great all-around option that is perfect for jigging walleye. This rod is made with high-quality graphite and features a fast action that is perfect for jigging. It is also very sensitive, which makes it easy to detect even the slightest bites. You can get it in a spinning or casting version and a variety of actions and power options, so you can target almost any freshwater fish you might find.
With a 15-year warranty offered by St. Croix, I assure you this rod is going to last for years to come if you take minimal care for it. Worth every penny.
St. Croix Eyecon
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The St. Croix Eyecon is another great option for those looking for a high-quality jigging rod. It suits a wide variety of techniques and fishing styles. It’s well balanced, strong and is extremely sensitive for the price. It has enough back bone to handle fish that are considered “too big” for it. With it’s high-quality build, you’re going to love this rod if you have $150 ready to spend on tackle.
Hope this list helped you find a rod that suits your budget and preferences. I included the the best of the best rods, so if the prices are too high for you I advise you to get something like the Ugly Stik Elite or the Shimano Stimula Spinning Rod. Even on a budget, try to keep close to the guidelines mentioned above and you will catch some nice walleye without spending too much.
Jigging for Walleyes
Jigging involves using a weighted lure or jig that is moved up and down in the water column to attract fish. Walleyes are known to be attracted to the movement of the jig, and this technique can be highly effective in catching them.
Vertical jigging is a type of jigging that is particularly effective for catching walleyes. It involves dropping the jig straight down into the water and then lifting it up and down in short, quick motions. The goal is to make the jig look like a baitfish that is swimming up and down in the water column.
To be successful at vertical jigging for walleyes, you need the right equipment. A walleye jigging rod is a specialized fishing rod that is designed for this technique. It should have a medium-light power with an extra-fast action tip to be able to detect light bites and set the hook quickly.
A shorter rod, such as a 6’3″ or 7’0″ rod, is ideal for vertical jigging. It should also be lightweight and sensitive to help you feel even the slightest bites.
In addition to the right equipment, there are a few other tips to keep in mind when jigging for walleyes. First, pay attention to the depth of the water you are fishing in and adjust your jig accordingly. Second, vary your jigging technique by changing the speed and motion of your jig to see what works best.
Finally, be patient and persistent, as walleyes can be finicky and may require some trial and error to catch.
Line and Lure for Walleye
A braided main line with an 8 to 10 lb test is recommended, as it has almost no stretch and allows you to feel even the slightest bites. Pair this with a 6 to 8 lb test fluorocarbon leader to ensure a stealthy presentation that won’t spook the fish.
In terms of lure selection, walleyes are known to be finicky biters, so it’s important to choose the right lure for the job. Jigs are a popular choice, but you’ll want to make sure you’re using the right size and color for the conditions you’re fishing in.
For clear water, natural colors like green, brown, and black work well, while in murky water, brighter colors like chartreuse, orange, and pink can be more effective. You’ll also want to consider the weight of your jig, as lighter jigs are better for shallow water while heavier jigs are better for deeper water.
When it comes to jigging technique, it’s important to be patient and consistent. Use a three-foot rod motion, starting at 9 o’clock, moving up to 11 o’clock, then returning to a short rest at 9 o’clock. This creates a bird-in-flight bait motion while bringing the bait back to the same depth at the end of each stroke.
Keep these considerations in mind and experiment with different techniques and lures to find what works best for you. Until the next one, tight lines!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal length for a jigging rod when fishing for walleyes?
The ideal length for a walleye jigging rod can range from 5 to 7 feet. A shorter rod will provide you with more control and accuracy, while a longer rod will give you more leverage and casting distance. Ultimately, the length of the rod you choose will depend on your personal preference and the fishing conditions you are facing.
What are the key features to look for in a walleye jigging rod?
When looking for a walleye jigging rod, there are a few key features to keep in mind. Firstly, you want a rod that is sensitive enough to detect light bites and strikes. Secondly, you want a rod with a fast action tip to quickly set the hook. Lastly, you want a rod with a medium light power rating to handle the weight of the jig and the fish.
What is the best reel to pair with a walleye jigging rod?
When pairing a reel with a walleye jigging rod, you want to look for a reel with a high gear ratio and a smooth drag system. A spinning reel is a popular choice for walleye jigging, but baitcasting reels can also be effective.
How important is rod sensitivity when jigging for walleyes?
Rod sensitivity is crucial when jigging for walleyes. Walleyes are known for their light bites, so a rod with high sensitivity will allow you to feel even the slightest nibble on your bait. This will increase your chances of hooking a fish and ultimately improve your overall success rate.
Are there any specific brands that are known for producing quality walleye jigging rods?
There are several brands that are known for producing quality walleye jigging rods, including St. Croix, G.Loomis, and KastKing. It’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you are getting a high-quality product.
What is the optimal power and action for a walleye jigging rod?
The optimal power and action for a walleye jigging rod is medium light power with a fast action tip. This combination will provide you with the sensitivity and control you need to detect light bites and set the hook quickly.
