Jig Selection for Snook in Florida Inlets and Passes

When it comes to jigging for slob snook in Florida’s inlets and passes, jig selection isn’t just a detail — it’s a difference-maker. From weight and color to hook strength and skirt size, the wrong choice can cost you the bite of a lifetime.

Weight: Match the Conditions

One of the biggest variables when jigging for snook is jig weight. Tidal current, wind, and casting distance all shift by the minute — and so should your jig selection.

Recommended Range:

• 1/8 oz to 4 oz jigs

Key Considerations:

• On a calm night, a 2 oz jig might be perfect.
• The next night with wind in your face? You might need a 3 oz to reach the same fish.
• Heavier jigs help maintain contact with the bottom and reduce slack in the line — critical for detecting subtle bites.

The more weight options you carry, the more conditions you can fish effectively.

Color: Light vs. Dark Nights

Some say color doesn’t matter. Others say it’s everything. Here’s the practical way to think about it:

Bright Nights (Full Moon, Clear Water):

• Use: White, chartreuse, blue-white, red-white
• These colors reflect ambient light and appear more natural in bright conditions.

Dark Nights (New Moon, Stained Water):

• Use: Black, purple, dark olive
• Dark jigs create strong silhouettes that stand out in the shadows.

Pro tip: Have the same color options in multiple weights to adjust without sacrificing visibility or profile.

Skirt Size: Match the Hatch

The jig skirt affects both appearance and action. You can adjust skirt length with a quick trim — and it can make all the difference.

• Shorter skirt: Better flare, more aggressive action. Good for smaller bait scenarios.
• Longer skirt: Better for mimicking large prey like mullet or ladyfish.

Hooks: No Room for Weakness

When you're jigging in current and driving the hook into a 35"+ snook's jaw, cheap hooks will fail.

• Use heavy wire hooks that won’t bend under pressure.
• Be ready to apply real drag to get fish in quickly — especially breeder snook that should be released healthy.

Jig Head Styles: How It Falls Matters

Different head styles create different presentations. Know when to switch:

• Banana Head: Slower fall, more flutter. Good for subtle bites and fish hugging the bottom.
• Bullet Head: Faster sink, tighter profile. Best for current or deep drop presentations.

Experiment Relentlessly

Every inlet is different. Every night is different. The only way to dial in your jig game is to experiment:

• Change weights.
• Change colors.
• Try different skirt lengths and head styles.

If you’re not adapting, you’re falling behind. The snook aren’t going to wait for you to figure it out.

Final Thought

Jig selection isn’t about picking the prettiest lure on the rack — it’s about understanding your environment and adjusting in real time. Bring variety. Test everything. Pay attention to what works and why.

Throw jigs. Bounce bottom. Figure out your fish.