The history of jigging Blackfish in NJ as I know it

[SaltLife1980]

Sweet

[Joey Dah Fish]

Great read Eric. Good topic as well. It began for me early this season and to say there is a learning curve was an under statement for me to say the least. I pulled my hair out the first few times. I would reel up an empty hook almost every time. So I fished for an hour or so and put it rod holder. Catch some fish the traditional way and try it again until I learned the bite and when to swing. It's a whole lot of fun only after you're are hairless. But that too is togging. No doubt there's a time and place as you stated. As the water starts getting colder and we start fishing deeper and what I call big fish season is in full swing I will put it in a rod holder. The biggest reason I will put it in a rod holder is my personality not because it doesn't work. If I bust off a real slob I will beat myself up for days (and I'm sure many others will chime in ) saying you probably would have landed that fish with heavier tackle. Lots of folks can just brush it off and move on but not me. I say fish how every like and enjoy the style you favor.
Thanks for posting this and I will certainly be following this thread. Wishing you all many fish stories and victories.

[Topeka Boy]

Gonna Have to learn how to jig My pb is 9 lbs I need a dd badMatbe this can do it.. Merry Christmas to all my friends.

Thanks to you, Henry, and Bill, I started jigging and haven't looked back. It not only catches more fish, but it's a heck of a lot more fun! I got my first DD on a jig the other day and.....WOW!

[Boston Pete]

I know jigging catches fish but for me the bite of a blackfish on a whole white crab is what keeps me coming back
I've caught tog on jigs and that bite doesn't compare.
Don't mean to pee in your Cherrios on this post but just wondering if anyone feels the same.

[jigemup]

We are still having this discussion as of last night, jig vs rig and brought to mind Eric's post. It was well written and brought out some opinions and experiences of 1.5 years ago, have your opinions changed.

Eric just read your post on jigging togs,great job.Should encourage others to give it a shot.Thanks for the legend you put before my name,but there is nothing legendary about me.I break the inlet ,ask the LORD to guide me and keep us safe.Then i try my best to put the guys on the meat.Healthy happy new year to all.capt.tommy joseph

[Man Workin]

Maybe nothing legendary, lol. But I have been on the water fishing around you for some time and you are a very respectful Captain in regards to safety and the way you go about things. It's nice to share the ocean with a vessel such as yours, no B.S.

Brian Ciesielski
Man Workin

[ytuna]

You are too modest Tommy. You are a legend for your fishing knowledge (not many left that use ranges to get on a great piece that has been giving up fish for decades). But more importantly you are valued for your humanity, warmth, faith and positive outlook. Very few of us would be able to carry the load you carry with grace. More than a legend, you are a role model.

Bill

[Joey Dah Fish]

Boy Tommy they're really piling in on 😜😜😜😜 cudos to you for working hard to maintain your well deserved reputation