The Anatomy and Appeal of Skipping Jigs: Design, Function, and Color Strategy

Skipping jigs are specifically designed for fishing under overhead cover—such as boat docks, overhanging branches, or other hard-to-reach areas. To fulfill this purpose effectively, high-performing skipping jigs share several common design features that allow them to glide smoothly across the water’s surface and maneuver efficiently through heavy cover.

These jigs typically feature a distinct head shape: the line tie (eye) is positioned horizontally, and the head has a slightly scooped or shovel-like profile, with most of its weight concentrated on a flat, planing surface at the bottom. A medium-sized weedguard extends forward from the head to shield the hook point—offering snag resistance without compromising hook-setting ability. Most skipping jigs are fitted with a strong, round-bend hook. Molded directly onto the hook shank is a soft-plastic trailer keeper, which securely holds soft plastic trailers in place. Finally, a rubber or silicone skirt is tightly secured around the collar of the jig head to complete the presentation.

In terms of color selection, skipping jigs also follow a fairly narrow range. You rarely see bright whites, chartreuse, pink, or shad-pattern finishes. This is because it’s widely accepted that when using a skipping technique, anglers are typically targeting bass feeding on dark-bottom-dwelling prey such as bluegill, bream, or crawfish. Consequently, these jigs usually come in base colors like green, brown, or black, often accented with small touches of brighter hues—such as chartreuse, orange, or purple—to enhance their appeal.