Do most of you guys use a split-shot under your slip bobber rigs or just go jig head?

Both. Probably more often with the split shot but there are times (windy) when a chartreuse jig brings in more fish. The key when using a jig is to keep it 1/16 or 1/32 oz.

This is how I setup my slip rigs - a little extra work but I prefer the added benefits.

Bobber stop > bobber > 1/8 oz egg weight > bead (optional to help protect knot) > barrel swivel > 12-18" of line > then either plain circle hook or small jighead. Prefer jigheads for leeches as they tend to tangle up on a plain hook if left alone too long.

I like this setup because the swivel prevents line twist and split shots can nick up your line and cause line breaks. This also allows you to go from say, braid main line to fluoro/mono at the barrel swivel, or from say 10 lb mono main line to 6 lb fluoro for the leader - so you have more options with the type of line for the leader based on the type of fish your targeting.

My bobber setups I prefer 8-10 lb mono for the main line (because mono floats) and 6 lb fluorocarbon leaders when live bait fishing for walleyes, 8 lb for smallies (generally the lowest lb test you are comfortable with when using live bait). If you use fluoro for your main line, it will sink and can cause issues getting snagged if your fishing from shore and forget about your bobber after a couple cocktails....

This Slip Bobbers thread from last month has a lot of feedback on this question.

Awesome stuff fellas. Thank you. I can see all your points. Split shot allows for a little more natural freedom of movement with the jig head supplying a higher level of control.

Any of you guys/gals prefer a drop shot set-up instead of the slip bobber? I could see this being a solid alternative.

Thank you!

AirPrex: "This Slip Bobbers thread from last month has a lot of feedback on this question."

Split shot with red hook is my go-to.

I probably use a jig under my slip bobber 80% of the time and have had no trouble catching plenty of fish, of multiple species. It is more convenient, allows for color changes, casts better and allows you to gauge depth better.

Jigs work great for traditional jigging and vertical jigging so fish obviously think they look like prey, why wouldn't they work under a slip bobber?

I just don't like messing with sinkers/split shots and jigs are so much easier. i have switched some times if the fish aren't biting and I can't remember a time where it made a big difference. I am not saying that it is better in any way than a plain hook and a sinker, which is a more natural presentation. I have had plenty of good luck fishing jigs under a bobber so I go with what has worked for me.

lindylair: "I probably use a jig under my slip bobber 80% of the time and have had no trouble catching plenty of fish, of multiple species. It is more convenient, allows for color changes, casts better and allows you to gauge depth better.


Jigs work great for traditional jigging and vertical jigging so fish obviously think they look like prey, why wouldn't they work under a slip bobber?


I just don't like messing with sinkers/split shots and jigs are so much easier. i have switched some times if the fish aren't biting and I can't remember a time where it made a big difference. I am not saying that it is better in any way than a plain hook and a sinker, which is a more natural presentation. I have had plenty of good luck fishing jigs under a bobber so I go with what has worked for me. "

This was my main reason of asking the qiuestion. I really didn't want to mess with more tackle. I've set up slip bobbers for bream down here but we never use them for eyes or bass. Not sure why...you just never see anyone utilizing it.

I usually use a plain hook (colors may vary) and then split shot above it. We tried this vs. the small jig head with the same live bait last fall for crappies at a local lake. It was night and day the difference between the two....it was clear water and they hardly touched the jigs no matter the color, even color matched to the hooks that were working.

But in the BW, I'd say it probably won't matter much.