Jig Lures

Jig Lures for New Zealand Saltwater Fishing

Metal jig lures are a versatile choice for targeting predatory fish around New Zealand's coastline. Their reflective bodies imitate small baitfish, while their weight allows casting and vertical jigging at different depths.

Our range includes Suckerme and Sure-Strike Pro metal jigs from 15g to 40g. Choose individual colours or multi-piece sets to suit your fishing location, target species and conditions.

Which Jig Lure Weight Should You Choose?

Choosing the correct weight is one of the most important decisions when buying metal fishing jigs. Weight affects casting distance, sinking speed and lure control in moving water.

15g Jig Lures – Light Coastal Fishing

Our 15g jigs suit lighter spinning tackle, sheltered harbours and shallow coastal areas. They work well when fish are feeding on small baitfish.

These lightweight jigs are suitable for targeting kahawai, trevally and smaller snapper around wharves, rocky points and sheltered bays.

View our 15g jig lures.

21g Jig Lures – Light to Medium Coastal Jigging

Our 21g Suckerme coastal jig set provides a middleweight option for anglers wanting additional casting weight without moving to heavier tackle.

The 7cm profile suits smaller baitfish presentations. These jigs are useful for coastal casting, harbour fishing and moderate-depth jigging.

28g Jig Lures – Versatile All-Round Fishing

Our 28g jig lures offer a practical balance between casting weight and lure control. They suit fishing from rocks, wharves, beaches and boats.

Choose from individual Sure-Strike Pro 28 colours or a five-piece Suckerme coastal jig set. These lures are suitable for targeting kahawai, snapper and trevally.

View our 28g jig lures.

30g Jig Lures – Coastal Casting and Predators

Our 30g Sure-Strike Pro jigs offer another option for anglers targeting coastal predators. Their compact metal bodies provide casting weight for fishing around deeper channels and coastal structure.

Available finishes include blue, silver, pink belly and black back. These colours allow anglers to change presentations according to water clarity and baitfish activity.

40g Jig Lures – Deeper Water and Stronger Currents

Our 40g jigs suit situations where extra weight helps with casting, sinking and maintaining contact with the lure.

Choose Sure-Strike Pro 40 individual jigs or a five-piece Suckerme set. These heavier options suit deeper harbour channels, exposed coastal areas and boat fishing.

View our 40g jig lures.

Jig Lure Weight Comparison

These are general recommendations. Water depth, current, rod rating and fish size should also influence your choice.

Choosing the Right Metal Jig Colour

Colour and reflective finishes influence how a lure appears underwater. Light conditions, water clarity and baitfish colour can affect which presentation works best.

• Silver: A natural baitfish appearance for clear water and bright conditions. A useful all-round choice for kahawai and trevally.
• Blue and Silver: Resembles common coastal baitfish and provides a natural presentation in clear water.
• Pink: Offers additional contrast when natural colours are not attracting fish.
• Red Head: A white body and contrasting red head can stand out in variable water conditions.
• Glow Stripe: Luminous markings provide additional visibility in low light after charging with a light source.
• Green and Gold: A brighter alternative for changing light and water conditions.
• Black Back and Silver: Creates a defined baitfish silhouette with contrasting upper and lower surfaces.

When fishing is slow, changing lure colour or retrieve speed may produce better results than repeatedly casting the same presentation.

What Fish Can You Catch with Jig Lures in NZ?

Kahawai: Metal jigs are particularly useful when kahawai are chasing baitfish near the surface. Cast beyond feeding schools and retrieve at medium to fast speeds.

Snapper: Work the lure close to the seabed using short lifts and controlled drops. This technique can be effective around suitable rocky areas and coastal structure.

Trevally: Try a slower retrieve with occasional pauses. Smaller metal jigs can suit trevally feeding on small baitfish.

Kingfish: Kingfish may strike metal jigs around baitfish schools and reefs. However, larger fish require appropriately strong rods, reels, line and hooks.

Other Coastal Species: Metal jigs may also attract blue cod and other predatory species when presented near suitable bottom structure.

How to Fish with Metal Jigs

Jig lures can be fished using several retrieve methods. The best technique depends on your target species and water conditions.

Fast Retrieve for Kahawai

1. Cast beyond visible feeding activity.
2. Allow the jig to sink briefly.
3. Retrieve at a steady or fast speed.
4. Add occasional pauses or faster turns of the reel.

Lift and Drop for Snapper

1. Cast into suitable deeper water or lower the jig from a boat.
2. Allow the lure to sink close to the seabed.
3. Lift the rod using short, controlled movements.
4. Lower the rod while maintaining contact with the lure.
5. Repeat while watching for strikes during the drop.

Avoid allowing the lure to drag across rocky ground, as exposed hooks can become snagged.

Recommended Rod, Reel and Line

Most of our metal jigs can be used with suitable spinning tackle. However, the rod's casting rating must include the weight of your chosen lure.

• 15g Jigs: Light or medium-light spinning rod with a 2000 to 3000 size reel.
• 21g to 30g Jigs: Medium-light or medium spinning rod with a 2500 to 4000 size reel.
• 40g Jigs: Medium spinning rod rated for 40g casting weight, paired with a suitable 4000 to 5000 size reel.

For general coastal fishing, 10lb to 20lb braided fishing line provides a useful starting range. Match your leader strength to the target species and surrounding structure.

Heavier fish, strong currents and rocky areas may require stronger tackle. Reel sizes also vary between manufacturers.

Individual Jig Lures or Multi-Piece Sets?

Individual jig lures suit anglers who already know which colour and weight they prefer. They also allow you to replace a particular lure without purchasing another complete set.

Multi-piece jig sets provide several colour options for changing conditions. Our Suckerme coastal jig sets are available in different weights, including 21g, 28g and 40g.

For anglers visiting several fishing locations, carrying different weights and colours provides more flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jig Lures

What is the best jig lure weight for NZ fishing?

A 28g jig is a useful all-round starting point for coastal fishing. However, 15g suits lighter conditions, while 40g can provide better control in deeper water and stronger currents.

Are metal jigs good for catching kahawai?

Yes. Metal jigs imitate small baitfish and suit medium to fast retrieves. Silver and blue finishes are useful starting colours.

Can I use jig lures from the beach?

Yes. Metal jigs can be cast from beaches using appropriately rated spinning rods. Heavier jigs may help with casting weight in exposed conditions.

Can I catch snapper using metal jigs?

Yes. Snapper may strike metal jigs worked close to the seabed. Short lifts and controlled drops are useful techniques.

Are 40g jigs better than 15g jigs?

Not always. A 40g jig generally sinks faster and provides more casting weight. A 15g jig suits lighter tackle and shallower water.

What is the difference between a metal jig and a softbait jig head?

A metal jig is a complete weighted lure with a reflective body. A softbait jig head is a weighted hook designed to hold a separate soft plastic lure.