ロックフィッシュ（ジグヘッドリグ）

Basic Structure of the Rig

• Jighead: Models ranging from 10g to around 40g are used. Some joint‑type jigheads are designed to reduce snags and prevent fish from shaking off the hook.
• Worms: Choose according to the target’s feeding habits. Use shad‑tail worms to imitate small fish, or claw/hog‑type (crustacean‑style) worms in the 2–4 inch range to imitate crabs and shrimp.
• Rod: For serious rock‑fishing around rocky shores, 8–9 foot rockfish rods or seabass rods are suitable.
• Reel: A 3000–4000 size spinning reel is standard. High‑gear (or extra‑high‑gear) models are recommended to quickly pull fish away from rocks.
• Line: Use PE line (1–2号) for sensitivity and casting distance, and attach a fluorocarbon leader of 4–8号 (16–30lb) to prevent abrasion from rocks.

Fishing Procedure

1. Casting and Bottom Contact: Cast the lure and always let it sink to the bottom first. Allowing it to fall freely (free‑fall) without tension helps it sink vertically.
2. Lift & Fall: Lift the rod to raise the lure off the bottom, then let it fall again. Rockfish bites often occur during the fall, so watch the line closely.
3. Swimming (Steady Retrieve): After letting the lure hit bottom, reel it up through the mid‑range at a steady speed, then let it fall back down. Repeat the cycle.
4. Bottom Bump: Tap the lure along the bottom with small rod movements. This is effective when fish are inactive or when targeting bottom‑oriented species like scorpionfish.
5. Bite and Hook‑set: When you feel a sharp “thud” or the line stops during the fall, set the hook firmly. Rockfish have very hard upper jaws, so use a strong hook‑set followed by a second reinforcing hook‑set to ensure penetration.
6. Landing: The first few seconds after the hook‑set are critical. Pull the fish away from the rocks immediately to prevent it from diving into cover.