Here's your quick start guide buyers to get you started fast!
Is this guide for you? Let me ask you a couple questions…
Are you trying to figure out what’s a GOOD hair jig from a bad one?…
Have you experienced the bass completely ignoring the hair jig you’re currently using… no matter how many times you cast it out?…
Does it seem like the bass are constantly coming off the hook after you set it?…
Do your jigs last only a couple of outings before the paint starts to chip, the hook seems to dull, and the body falls apart?
If you said ‘yes’ to any of these questions then this guide for you. Let’s jump in…
The best hair jigs in this guide all pack fantastic-hook up ratios, excellent color options to match-the-hatch in any lake you’re fishing, offer outstanding durability that will last you years.
We’ve tested dozens of hair jigs… from custom jigs to the cheap hair jigs you can find in the Chinese discount sites… we tested them all. So we know what we’re looking for.
Each of the hair jigs you see in our guide below were hand selected based on a few key factors, including quality, durability, hook up ratio and added features, like color options. The result is a solid list of hair jigs that are sure to put more fish in your boat.
This list below will offer you unbiased and helpful recommendations to help you get the best possible lure for your needs and budget.
While fishing with a hair jig may be the answer to your needs, sometimes you’ll need to switch to other lures. With this in mind, my team and I published a quick-read review of 5 Best Bass Baits Every Angler Must Own, or you can opt to read the complete report, Bass Fishing Lures: A Complete Guide. Over the past several years my team and I also tested and reviewed a variety of products, including best bass fishing rod, best bass fishing line, best tackle bag and even best fish finder for bank fishermen!
Key Takeaways...
The typical hair jig features a ball-shaped lead head with a small hook surrounded by hair. The body was traditionally made with hair from a deer’s tail (bucktail), but you can find hair jigs with a variety of natural and synthetic materials.
A hair jig may resemble baitfish or crawling crawfish, depending on the presentation and retrieval techniques. The basic design of a hair jig creates a subtle presentation.
The hair or fur on the jig has less movement, but flows naturally in the water. The subtle, natural presentation is often useful for attracting strikes from bass in deep, cold water or when the fish are being picky.
The natural movement of the hair also requires less effort on your part when trying to create a realistic presentation. The hair jig is more forgiving for novices that are working on their retrieval techniques
These jigs vary in size from 1/4-ounce to 3-ounces depending on the species of fish you’re targeting. However for most bass anglers, a hair jig should range from 3/8-ounce to 3/4- ounce in weight to target smallmouth bass. Most hair jigs do not have rattles to attract bass.
Once the angler casts out the jig, let it descend and let it sit for a few seconds. Bass will often eat it as it’s falling. If they don’t, hop it a couple of times to trigger a strike. If no takers reel it back in for the subsequent cast. If you want to learn more how to fish a hair jig for bass, click here.
But getting back to the jigs themselves… just because it looks like a hair jig doesn’t mean it’s great for fishing— a hair jig has to be Mike Tyson tough and be willing to take a ton of punishment, the hooks have to be surgical-quality sharp… and… as strong as an ox, it has to come in a variety of colors to better “match-the-hatch” to entice more bites.
I’ve come to the conclusion, you would be wasting your time if the lure you’re fishing it doesn’t have these features. Best of all, hair jigs are really easy to learn and fish.
Stop! Did you notice something? I didn’t say good hair jigs have to be expensive. There are some really quality lures that don’t cost you an arm and a leg!
So listen… if you don’t have much time to read the details we totally understand. Simply use the links below to quickly find the best jig for your fishing needs. You can be assured we only choose the best products for you…
Best Overall Hair Jig – Haggerty Lures Shorty Joe Hair Jig
Best Budget Hair Jig – SPRO Bucktail Jig
Editor’s Choice – Dr. Fish 3-Pack Bucktail Jigs
But be warned! Go through this blueprint slowly and carefully so you don’t miss any suggestions that could cost you.
#ad / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Haggerty Lures Shorty Joe Hair Jig
WINNER! Best All-Around Hair Jig!
But, why is the Shorty Joe Hair Jig the best?
The Haggarty Lures Shorty Joe Hair Jig has a head in a teardrop shape that is sometimes referred to as a coffin head. It is a tournament quality jig used by professional anglers.
This lure is only 4” long, so it’s perfect for fall fishing when a smaller profile is desired.
Construction
The Haggarty Lures Shorty Joe Hair Jig has premium whiting feathers mixed in with white ducktail hair. It has a 5/0 sharp Eagle Claw Black Nickel hook to make it an effective jig for fishing large bass who are beginning to display lethargic behavior.
Pros prefer this bait because they say that it has the best jig head for a good fall rate in the water. It is hand tied at the time of purchase by Haggarty Lures.
Some anglers have reports questionable skirt durability, but I can say I’ve never had any issues.
Until recently, most colors were rather monotone, but now Haggarty has come out with some really great colors.
Fishing Experience
Bass will respond to smaller bait in the spring and fall, so you will know that you have an effective bait as you fish this jig.
Price
The Haggarty Lures Shorty Joe Hair Jigs are more expensive than other hair jigs because they are tournament quality. They are in the high price range of hair lures.
Summary
The Haggarty Lures Hair Jigs are among the best that you can buy. They are made with premium components to result in a very effective hair jig.
Their recessed eyes attract bass and this jig will glide over the lake bottom. The bucktail hair and feathers flutter in the water, attracting the attention of nearby bass who can’t resist them.
Recommended Colors: Olive/Orange, Black, Gray Smoke, Junebug
Here are some REAL reviews from actual customers:
“Well crafted haven’t used yet.I tye my own jigs these are well made” — Blane. via Amazon.com
“Great Lure. First time out and it caught a 5.5 lb largemouth. Quality built and realistic. Good shad imitator winter lure.” — Michael. via Amazon.com
“Excellent jig. Great looking jig! 2 multi colored feathers, 2 white feathers, accent feathers near the head, real hair, many strands of tinsel for added UV effect great flow to it. Haven’t fished it yet unfortunately but it’s exactly what I was shopping for.” — Schwigg. via Amazon.com
This lure flat out catches you fish!
Tech Specs:
- Length - 4 inches
- Weights offered - ¼, ⅜, ½, ¾, 1 - ounce
- Jigs per Pack - 1
- Hook size - 5/0 hooks
- Recommended line size - 12-17 - pound fluorocarbon
2. Spro Prime Bucktail Jig
Best Budget Winner
The SPRO Bucktail Jig is rated by anglers at almost 5 out of 5. This jig has a unique head shape with bulging eyes to attract the attention of nearby bass.
It also has a holographic finish and blazing colors.
Construction
This SPRO Bucktail Jig is designed to swim in the water rather than making a fast descent like other hair jigs. It swims almost parallel to the lake bottom and looks very natural.
The super strong Gamakatsu and super sharp hook will work with large bass in the fall. This hair jig works in freshwater or saltwater.
Fishing Experience
Since other anglers rate the SPRO Bucktail Jig highly, you know that it must be good. There are lots of negative ratings for bait and lures, but not for this SPRO.
You will notice the feel of this hair jig swimming through the water. Be ready because it usually makes a hook in in a short time.
Price
The SPRO Bucktail Jig is reasonably priced considering that it has a deluxe Gamakatsu hook and other premium components. It is priced in the medium-level range for hair jigs.
Summary
If you’re looking for a medium-priced hair jig, the SPRO Bucktail Jig offers a lot for the cost. Its unique head shape helps it to swim down to the bottom of the water and to keep swimming in a parallel fashion.
The bulging eyes and holographic finish attract bass who can’t resist it once they lay eyes on it.
Here are some REAL reviews from actual customers:
“Indeed a SPRO. Works well. The only issue is that you can purchase one of these for 1/2 to 3/4 of its price listed here from other superstores such as Walmart and Dick’s.” – Justin: September 21, 2015 Via Amazon.com
“Gorgeous bucktail, great quality.” Christoph E.: September 1, 2016 Via Amazon.com
“I fish these in the shallow bay water in 1/2-ounce size for Summer Flounder. I add a 4” gulp swimming mullet to it. It has a strong and razor-sharp hook that makes setting the hook a breeze. Very durable. Fluke, striped bass, and bluefish have nailed it and it holds up great.” – BassAngler77: 2016 Via Bass Pro Shops
Tech Specs:
- Length - 4 inches
- Weights offered - ½, 1, 2, 3 - ounce
- Jigs per Pack - 1
- Hook size - 5/0 Gamakatsu hooks
- Recommended line size - 12-17 - pound fluorocarbon
3. Dr.Fish Bucktail Jig Pack
Best Multi Pack Winner
Dr. Fish 3-Pack Bucktail Jigs are sold in a pack of 3. Colors included are white, red, and chartreuse for different environments.
These lures are highly rated by other anglers for one reason – they catch fish. These jigs are made in the USA.
Construction
The Dr. Fish Bucktail Jigs are made with lifelike bulging eyes and scaled holographic jig bodies. They have ultra-sharp high carbon steel hooks.
All three colors have red bands around their necks The jigs look very realistic as they glide through the water.
These jigs do not hang straight down like cheaper hair jigs, but swim in the water. They are great for jigging on the lake bottom for bass.
Fishing Experience
You will probably feel this jig swimming in the water as you fish it. Other anglers have had a lot of success with Dr. Fish Hair Jigs and so will you.
Fish are attracted to the hair jig’s eyes and holographic bodies that they must investigate. This is your chance to hook into a lunker!
Price
The price of these hair jigs falls within the lower range of higher priced hair jigs.
Summary
The Dr. Fish 3-Pack Bucktail Jigs are premium hair jigs with many features such as a slow sink to the lake bottom. They are lifelike and attractive to fish.
You can save money by buying this 3-Pack, and you’ll have three different colors for various uses in different types of water.
Here are some REAL reviews from actual customers:
“Lightening fast delivery and looks like a great lure. Can’t wait to try it out!” – Tom R.: September 23. 2022 Via Amazon.com
“Looks well-built. What I wanted for deep water winter fishing for bass.” – James Mackey: September 19, 2022 Via Amazon.com
“Comes in different sizes. Nice jig for fluke or striped bass fishing. Several sizes allow for current and depth. Tail seems durable and show up well in the water.” – Henry C. Cierski: September 11. 2022 Via Amazon.com
Tech Specs:
- Length - 4 inches
- Weights offered - ¼, ½, 1, 2, 3, 4 - ounce
- Jigs per Pack - 3
- Hook size - 5/0 - 8/0 hooks (weight dependent)
- Recommended line size - 12-25 - pound fluorocarbon
4. Jenko Big Wig Magnum Hair Jig
The Jenko Big Wig Magnum Hair Jig has a head designed to swim more than other hair jigs. It doesn’t get stuck in rocks or vegetation.
The jigs have bucktail, synthetic fibers, and feathers tied together snugly. Anglers report that the hair jigs are durable and extremely realistic-looking.
Construction
The Jenko Big Wig has a custom-made head with 3D eyes. These hair jigs have some flash from the synthetic fibers tied along with bucktail and feathers.
This Jenko jig has a super-sharp Mustad Ultra-Point hook for offshore fishing. You can fish deep or shallow with these hair jigs, but the strong hook will easily hook into a lunker.
Fishing Experience
You might be surprised when you see how many bass you catch with the Jenko Big Wig. Regardless of the size you choose to fish, you will probably see some fish approach this jig as it goes down to the bottom of the lake.
Price
This hair jig falls within the upper range of prices for hair jigs. For its versatility and durability, it is a decent price for an effective hair jig.
Summary
The Jenko Big Wig Magnum Hair Jig is fairly new on the market even though hair jigs have been around for a long time. It was designed by an 18-year-old who is already a tournament pro.
It is rated 4.5 out of 5 by anglers who gladly pay more for this premium hair jig. It is available in 1 ounce, 3/4-ounce, and 1/2-ounce weights.
Here is a REAL review from an actual customer:
“I really like it. Works well on deep water bass.” – James Miller: September 22, 2022
Tech Specs:
- Length - 4 inches
- Weights offered - ½, ¾, 1 - ounce
- Jigs per Pack - 1
- Hook size - 5/0 Mustad Ultra Point hooks
- Recommended line size - 12-25 - pound fluorocarbon
Check Out These Amazon Best Sellers...
#ad / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Check Out These Amazon New Releases...
#ad / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
George Servinson
My name is George and I'm been fishing my entire life and love all things outdoors. My passion is helping anyone catch more fish. The newest things I've been doing lately is learning how to break down and clean all my reels, teaching my boy how to kayak fish, and bushcraft wilderness survival.
