Best Jigging Gear for Puget Sound Salmon
Vertical jigging is the technique of choice around Point Defiance, Tacoma Narrows, and the clay banks of Area 11. It is simpler than trolling (no downrigger needed), deadly effective on Chinook stacked on structure, and works from smaller boats. Here is the gear that gets it done.
Puget Pounder Jig (2 oz)
Puget PounderDesigned specifically for Puget Sound salmon jigging. The flutter action on the drop is what triggers strikes. The 2 oz size handles the moderate currents around Point Defiance. Go heavier (3-4 oz) for the Narrows.
P-Line Laser Minnow (2 oz)
P-LineChrome holographic finish is devastating in the clear water off the clay banks. Falls with a tight wobble that blackmouth cannot resist.
Shimano Teramar Southeast Jigging Rod (6'6" MH)
ShimanoFast tip detects the subtle "tick" of a Chinook inhaling a jig on the drop. Medium-heavy backbone controls fish in current. 6'6" is the right length for boat jigging without being unwieldy.
▶️ Watch: jigging
Frequently Asked Questions
What weight jig for Puget Sound?
2 oz for Point Defiance and most of Area 11. 3-4 oz for Tacoma Narrows during current. The goal is to stay vertical — if your line angles more than 30 degrees, go heavier.
What color jig works best?
Green/white and blue/chrome are the most consistent producers in Puget Sound. Match the baitfish — herring are silvery with green/blue backs. Pink/white can work for Coho in summer.
How do I jig for salmon?
Drop to the bottom, reel up 5-10 cranks, then work the jig with sharp upward snaps of the rod tip followed by a controlled free-fall on slack line. Most strikes happen on the drop. Watch your line — if it goes slack early or twitches, set the hook.