Your Guide to Trout Fishing With Tube Jigs

Trout fishing with tube jigs can be an effective and fun way to catch these elusive fish.

Tube jigs, which are small tubes with a jig head on the bottom and a soft, silicone tail on top, mimic the appearance and movement of small insects and baitfish that trout feed on.

In this article, we'll go over the basics of using tube jigs for trout fishing, including how to rig them, where to fish them, and what tackle to use.

What Are Tube Jigs and How Do You Rig Them?

Tube jigs come in a variety of sizes, colors, and tail shapes, all of which can be used to imitate different types of trout prey.

The most common size for trout fishing is around 1 to 1.5 inches long, although you may want to go smaller or larger depending on the size of the baitfish in your area.

As for colors, natural shades like olive, brown, and black tend to work well, but you can also try brighter colors like chartreuse or pink to see what works best.

To rig a tube jig, you'll need a jig head, which is a small weighted hook with a flat bottom.

Simply slide the jig head into the top of the tube, making sure that the hook is pointing up and the flat bottom is resting against the bottom of the tube.

You can then add a small split shot or two above the jig head to help it sink faster and give it a more natural swimming action.

Where to Fish Tube Jigs for Trout

Trout can be found in a variety of habitats, from small streams and creeks to larger rivers and lakes.

In general, you'll want to look for areas with deep pools, undercut banks, and cover such as rocks or logs. These are the spots where trout like to hide and ambush their prey.

When fishing with tube jigs, you'll want to focus on the areas where the water is a bit deeper and cooler, as trout tend to be more active in these areas.

If you're fishing a stream or creek, look for areas with deep pools or eddies where the water slows down and there is plenty of cover for the trout to hide in.

In a river or lake, focus on areas with drop-offs or structure such as rocks or logs, as these areas often hold concentrations of baitfish and therefore, predatory trout.

What Tackle to Use for Trout Fishing with Tube Jigs

The tackle you'll need for trout fishing with tube jigs will depend on the size of the fish you're targeting and the type of water you're fishing in.

In general, a lightweight spinning rod with a fast action and a good sensitivity will work well for trout fishing with tube jigs.

You'll want a reel with a good drag system and a smooth retrieve, as you may need to put some pressure on the fish to get it to the surface.

As for line, 4- to 6-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon will work well for most situations.

If you're targeting larger trout or fishing in water with heavy cover, you may want to go up to 8- or 10-pound test.

It's also a good idea to use a leader when fishing with tube jigs, as the silicone tail can be easily damaged by the main line. A fluorocarbon leader of about 2- to 3-feet in length will work well for most situations.

Conclusion

Trout fishing with tube jigs can be a fun and effective way to catch these elusive fish. By using the right rig, fishing in the right spots, and using the proper tackle, you'll be well on your way to success.