The Ajing Soft Bait Tips and Tricks
Introduction
Ajing, the art of targeting Aji (jack mackerel), is rapidly gaining popularity among New Zealand anglers. The key to success lies in mastering the use of the aji soft bait. Let's dive into the essential techniques and strategies to help you land more Aji.
Prime Time and Locations
As mentioned, the best times for Aji fishing are evening and night. Look for locations with good water flow or under streetlights. These areas attract baitfish, which in turn attract Aji.
Key Techniques for Aji Soft Bait
Enticing the Aji: Presentation is Key
The primary technique involves presenting your aji soft bait slightly above the Aji's sightline. This attracts their attention and encourages them to strike. Maintaining your lure at a specific depth, known as the "range," is also essential.
Finding the Range
Identifying the depth at which Aji are actively feeding is crucial for success. Experiment with different depths until you find where the fish are biting. Aji feeds on different depth from surface to bottom water depending on the condition.
Lure Presentation: More Than Just a Retrieve
While a simple, steady retrieve can be effective, varying your presentation can significantly increase your catch rate. Try imparting action to your lure using twitches to create a darting movement, followed by a controlled retrieve or a curved fall. This technique is particularly effective for Aji that chase the lure but don't bite on a steady retrieve.
Twitching Technique
A few short, sharp twitches followed by a pause can mimic the movement of injured baitfish, triggering a predatory response from the Aji.
Adapting to Conditions
Adjusting your techniques based on the conditions is vital for increasing your catch rates and targeting larger fish. Larger Aji tend to be outside the main school or at slightly deeper depths. Don't be afraid to experiment with different lure sizes, colors, and retrieves.
Targeting Larger Aji
Try using slightly larger aji soft baits (up to 3 inches) and fishing in deeper water to target those bigger specimens.
3-inch soft lure (Fish Arrow 3" Grub) to catch large jack mackerel
Gear Recommendations
For ajing, a light rod and reel setup is essential. Use a light line and small jig heads to maximize sensitivity and presentation. A variety of aji soft baits in different colors and sizes will also help you adapt to changing conditions.
Conclusion
Jack mackerel, or Aji, are a fantastic target species for light tackle enthusiasts. Using the mentioned techniques, you'll be well on your way to catching plenty of these delicious fish.
Mastering the aji soft bait requires practice and patience. By mastering presentation techniques, and adapting to conditions, you'll significantly increase your chances of success.
