Let's start with our shopping list:
Jigs: 1/8oz. is a good start. Stopping at a local outdoor store, they can help you in color choices. Family owned businesses have been at it for years. They know the rivers better than anyone. Don't be afraid to ask for help!
In line weights: 1/4 oz.
Floats: This is important. Make sure you have a well balanced float. Here's a little math equation for you beginners. 1/8oz. jig + 1/4 oz. in line weight = 3/8oz. float. I will cover why this is important a little later in the post.
Bobber Stops- a blood knot that you tie to your line to basically stop the float. Adjustable for fishing different depths.
Beads: Cushion for the bobber.
Main Line: 20 lb braided. The brighter the better. That way you can see if your keeping your line off the water. Now there is mixed reviews about what weight braided fishing line people should use. Some say 30lb. for cold fingers and it's natural ability to float. But in some waters in Oregon, we know that it's rough at times and regardless if your main line is floating on the water, waves and currents will still pull it. Go with personal preference here. Braided is also good on the environment. If your jig happens to get stuck on the bottom and you have to break off, your not littering your local rivers with feet of line. The leader will snap off at the weight, keeping litter down. Remember, respect your rivers.
Leader: 10-12lb Fluorocarbon
Cast above the hole or "seam" that you would like to fish. Not to far above you though. The idea is to have the float vertical as soon as it's across from you. The easiest way to tell that its vertical is by the position of your float. If its leaning, diving, floating sideways, your doing it wrong.
Now, back to why your float needs to be properly balanced. If a float is to light or too big, you won't be able to tell if your properly presenting your bait. Think of it like a small buoy. With the right weight, Your floats actions will tell you if your properly fishing. The weight below the float is sending you signals from below the water into the float on the surface of the water. As a beginner this is very important. Think of a float as river bottom information expert.
If it's leaning, the probable cause is that your mainline is in the water. Usually being manipulated by the current. Keep that tip up and your line free of slack! If you see your float vertical but it's bobbing up and down in the water it means your jig is on the bottom. Fix that bobber stop. If the float is laying on it's side, that means your jig is sitting on the bottom. Adjust your bobber stop and try again. You want to be as vertical as possible for the best presentation. That means your jig is following the natural current and is more likely to produce a bite. You don't want your jig to bounce bottom either. The sweet spot is about a six inches to a foot off the bottom. Fish can't see up very well so you want to put it in there face.
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If the float drops, set the hook!
For other tips and advice, check my links below. Not only is it informative, but will get you going in the right direction!
USEFUL LINKS
*Disclaimer: Products are based on personal recommendation.
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