Methods
Jigging (metal jig)
A solid metal jig is cast from shore or dropped from a boat, then worked with the rod while retrieving so that it darts like a fleeing baitfish. It targets pelagic jacks and mackerel, and splits into shore jigging from piers and rocks and offshore jigging straight down from a boat. Hooked fish run hard, so you need to understand drag settings and how to fight. It is physically demanding, and the fishing is concentrated into the short window at dawn.
Season
Mainly early summer to early winter when the jacks come inshore, peaking in autumn.
The kit you need
Shore jigging kit ・ Kit total ¥40,000–100,000
- Shore jigging rod, 10 ft, MHLong and powerful enough to cast 40-60 g jigs and to absorb the runs of a hooked jack. ¥12,000–40,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Spinning reel, size 4000-5000For shore jigging. A smooth drag under a running fish matters more than anything here, so this is not the place to economise. ¥10,000–35,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- PE braid, 1.5-2 gouFor shore jigging: the compromise between casting distance and strength. ¥2,000–6,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Fluorocarbon leaderThe clear line tied to the end of the braid. It resists abrasion and is less visible, protecting the braid from rock and teeth. ¥800–3,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Metal jig, 30-60 gThe mainstay of shore jigging. Carry the same shape in several weights and switch with wind and current. ¥600–2,500AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Landing net with 5 m handlePiers sit high above the water and heavy fish break off if you lift them. Having one changes what you land. ¥4,000–20,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Fishing pliers / hook removerEssential protection from venomous spines and sharp teeth. Most injuries happen when someone unhooks a fish bare-handed. ¥800–4,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Knife and spike for bleeding fishWhat turns a caught fish into good food; bleeding it changes the taste. See the column "Killing and carrying your catch" for how to use them. ¥1,000–6,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Cool box, 15-20 LFor carrying fish home cold. Take plenty of ice; in summer a poorly insulated box is not fit for the job. ¥4,000–25,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Life jacket, adult (Japan Craft Inspection approved)The first thing to buy, and worn on piers, rocks and boats alike. Boat fishing requires the government-approved type marked with the cherry-blossom stamp. ¥5,000–20,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
- Studded or felt-soled bootsOrdinary shoes slip on rock and tetrapods. Falls are the most common cause of accidents, so these are mandatory for rocky shores. ¥4,000–15,000AdFind on AmazonFind on Rakuten
You will often be on rocks or the tip of a breakwater at dawn, where safety gear matters more than results. Do not go alone.
Product links may be affiliate links. Prices move, so treat the ranges as a guide.
What it catches
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Pacific Chub Mackerel
マサバ / Scomber japonicus
July–November
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Olive Flounder
ヒラメ / Paralichthys olivaceus
April–June, September–December
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Japanese cutlassfish
タチウオ / Trichiurus japonicus
July–December
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Japanese Spanish Mackerel
サワラ / Scomberomorus niphonius
April–June, September–December
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Japanese Amberjack
ブリ / Seriola quinqueradiata
July–December
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Greater Amberjack
カンパチ / Seriola dumerili
June–November
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Bullet & frigate tuna (souda-gatsuo)
ソウダガツオ / Auxis rochei / Auxis thazard
July–November