Fishing is a fantastic outdoor activity that can be both fun and educational, especially for children. For kids starting their fishing adventures, the right tools can make a big difference in their experience. One of the best options for young anglers is a durable jig fishing lure. Jigs are simple, effective, and adaptable for different types of fish and water conditions, making them an ideal choice for kids fishing in Canada’s diverse waterways.
In this comprehensive guide, we will compare some of the best durable jig fishing lures for kids in Canada. We’ll cover everything from the types of jigs to look for, to tips on how to use them effectively. Whether your child is fishing in freshwater lakes or rivers, or even coastal areas, this guide will provide all the information you need to make an informed choice and ensure your child has a great fishing experience.
Why Jig Fishing Lures Are Great for Kids
Jig fishing lures are one of the most versatile and durable types of fishing lures, making them an excellent option for kids. Here are some key reasons why jigs are perfect for young anglers:
1. Simple to Use
Jig fishing lures are easy to use and don’t require complicated techniques. Kids can learn to cast, let the lure sink, and retrieve it with varying speeds to simulate the movement of prey. This simplicity makes jigs perfect for beginners.
2. Effective for Different Species
Whether your child is fishing for bass, pike, trout, or even panfish, jigs are effective for a wide range of species. Their versatility allows kids to fish in various locations, from lakes to rivers to coastal areas.
3. Durable and Resilient
Kids can sometimes be rough on gear, so durability is key. Jigs are incredibly durable, especially when made with high-quality materials, making them a great option for kids who are still learning how to handle fishing equipment.
4. Affordable
Compared to other types of fishing lures, jigs are relatively affordable. This makes them an ideal choice for beginners who might not want to invest in expensive fishing gear right away.
Types of Jigs for Kids in Canada
Jigs come in various types, and the right one depends on factors like the species you’re targeting, water conditions, and the fishing environment. Here’s an overview of some of the most common jig types for kids fishing in Canada:
1. Lead Head Jigs
Lead head jigs are the most basic and common type of jig. They consist of a lead weight at the head of the lure with a hook protruding from the front, often adorned with a rubber or silicone skirt. These jigs are great for targeting bottom-dwelling fish like bass and walleye.
- Best For: Bass, walleye, panfish.
- How to Use: Cast the jig and let it sink to the bottom. Then, retrieve the jig in short, jerky motions to mimic the action of a baitfish or insect.
- Durability: Lead head jigs are durable and can withstand repeated use, making them perfect for kids learning to fish.
2. Soft Plastic Jigs
Soft plastic jigs use soft, rubbery bodies attached to a jig head. These jigs are available in various shapes, such as worms, crawfish, and minnow imitations. Soft plastic jigs are versatile and can be fished with a variety of techniques, making them great for kids.
- Best For: Trout, pike, bass.
- How to Use: Kids can use a simple jigging motion to make the soft plastic body wiggle or flutter in the water. This can be particularly effective when fishing for species that feed on smaller fish or invertebrates.
- Durability: The plastic body is durable, but it may wear out over time, especially when fishing in rocky or snag-prone areas.
3. Spinner Jigs
Spinner jigs combine the action of a jig with the additional flash and vibration provided by a spinning blade. These lures are effective in attracting fish from a distance, making them ideal for targeting species like bass and pike.
- Best For: Bass, pike, trout.
- How to Use: Retrieve spinner jigs at a steady pace, allowing the spinning blade to create vibrations and flashes in the water, simulating the movement of a wounded or fleeing fish.
- Durability: Spinner jigs are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, making them a solid choice for kids who are fishing in both freshwater and saltwater conditions.
4. Marabou Jigs
Marabou jigs are a variation of the classic lead head jig, featuring a soft, feather-like material at the head of the jig. This provides a unique, subtle action in the water that can entice more cautious fish.
- Best For: Trout, panfish, crappie.
- How to Use: Marabou jigs are best used with a slow retrieve, allowing the feathers to create a natural, enticing motion in the water. They are perfect for fishing in both still and moving water.
- Durability: While marabou jigs are effective, they may require occasional re-rigging, as the feathers can wear down over time, especially after repeated strikes.
5. Bucktail Jigs
Bucktail jigs are similar to marabou jigs but use natural animal hair (often deer hair) for the skirt instead of synthetic materials. These jigs create a natural, flowing action in the water, attracting fish with their lifelike motion.
- Best For: Bass, pike, trout.
- How to Use: Use bucktail jigs with a steady or slow retrieve. The hair on the jig’s skirt moves naturally in the water, imitating the movement of baitfish or small creatures.
- Durability: Bucktail jigs are durable and can withstand rough handling, making them a great option for kids.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Jigs for Kids
When selecting the best jig fishing lures for kids, there are several factors to consider. By understanding these factors, you can ensure that you choose the most effective and suitable lures for the fishing environment.
1. Species Targeted
The type of fish your child is targeting will influence the kind of jig to use. For bass and pike, lead head jigs or spinner jigs are excellent choices, while soft plastic jigs and marabou jigs work well for trout and panfish.
2. Water Conditions
Different jigs perform better in different water conditions. If you’re fishing in clear water, jigs with subtle movements, like marabou or bucktail jigs, will work best. In murky water, use jigs with more flash and vibration, such as spinner jigs or soft plastic jigs.
3. Ease of Use
For kids, it’s important to choose jigs that are easy to handle and don’t require complex fishing techniques. Lead head jigs and soft plastic jigs are simple to use and ideal for beginners.
4. Durability
Since kids can be a bit rough on fishing gear, durability is key. Look for jigs made from high-quality materials that can withstand repeated use without falling apart. Spinner jigs and lead head jigs tend to be the most durable options for young anglers.
How to Use Jigs for Fishing: Tips for Kids
Once you’ve selected the right jig for your child’s fishing adventure, it’s important to teach them how to use it effectively. Here are some tips on how to fish with jigs:
1. Casting
Teach your child how to cast the jig accurately, especially if they are fishing from a boat or the shore. A smooth, controlled cast will help them get the lure into the right spot.
2. Retrieving
After casting, the key to success with jigs is the retrieve. Kids can start with a simple steady retrieve and experiment with varying speeds to see what attracts the fish. Slow, deliberate movements are often more effective, but sometimes a quick, jerky retrieve can trigger a strike.
3. Hook Setting
When a fish strikes, it’s important to teach your child how to set the hook. Kids should wait until they feel the weight of the fish on the line and then give a quick, firm tug to set the hook. Timing is important, as setting the hook too early or too late can result in a missed catch.
4. Patience
Fishing requires patience, especially for kids. Remind your child that fishing is not always about immediate success, and the key is persistence. Encouraging them to stay focused and keep trying will make the experience more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Durable jig fishing lures are an excellent choice for kids fishing in Canada, offering ease of use, versatility, and effectiveness for a wide range of species. Whether you’re targeting bass, pike, or trout, there’s a perfect jig for every type of fishing environment. By considering factors such as species, water conditions, and durability, you can choose the right lure to maximize your child’s fishing success.
At Lurebolt, we offer a variety of high-quality fishing lures, including durable jigs, designed specifically for young anglers. Visit us at Lurebolt.com to browse our collection and help your child embark on their fishing adventure.