Don’t be afraid to go heavier with your jig when the line isn’t staying vertical—it can make a significant difference in achieving the right action. 

When I’m out fishing in the Hauraki Gulf at around 50m of water, I typically start with a jig weighing between 150g and 200g. This weight usually gets me in the ballpark, but if I notice that my line isn’t staying vertical, that’s my cue to switch things up. I’ll reach for a heavier jig, gradually increasing the weight until I find that sweet spot where the line holds vertical. On some days, I even find myself using jigs that weigh up to 300g!

The reason behind this adjustment is straightforward: slow pitch jigging is a vertical technique that relies on gentle, precise movements to effectively work the jig. If your line isn’t vertical, controlling the jig becomes more challenging, which can hinder its performance. It’s all about getting that perfect presentation to entice the fish.

To ensure you’re prepared for various conditions, I recommend bringing at least three different jig weights with you. This way, you can experiment and find the best jig for the specific conditions you’re facing that day.

It’s also important to remember that several other factors can influence the angle of your line. Elements such as line thickness, jig shape, hook size, and drift speed all play a role in how your setup behaves in the water. For instance, using a sea anchor or a trolling motor can help you manage your drift speed effectively, which is crucial for maintaining that vertical line angle.

When it comes to line selection, using the thinnest line possible without compromising your chances of getting snapped is key. My typical line size for slow pitch jigging in 50m is PE1.5 (0.209mm diameter) paired with a 30lb fluorocarbon leader (0.470mm diameter). A thinner line creates less drag in the water, which helps maintain a more vertical line angle.

Ultimately, fishing is as much about adapting to the conditions as it is about technique. So, don’t hesitate to make those adjustments and keep experimenting until you find what works best for you. Happy fishing!