Among the many tactics used to catch Stripers in the heat of the Summer, vertical jigging stands out as one of the most effective—and exciting—methods for targeting bass, especially when they’re feeding deep in hot weather.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about vertical jigging for striped bass on Cape Cod, from gear selection and technique to the best times and places to fish.
Why Vertical Jigging Works
Vertical jigging is a technique where you drop a metal jig straight down and work it vertically through the water column, mimicking a wounded or fleeing baitfish. It excels when bass are holding deep, which often happens during the heat of summer or when they’re keyed in on bait like sand eels, herring, or mackerel near the bottom.
Cape Cod’s deep rips and offshore structures—like those found off Monomoy, Race Point, and Cape Cod Bay—are ideal for vertical jigging. These areas concentrate baitfish and give stripers the strong current environment they love to feed in.
Gear for Vertical Jigging
Rods and Reels:
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A 6’6” to 7’ medium-heavy spinning or conventional rod with a fast action tip provides the backbone needed for jigging and fighting large fish.
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Match it with a 4000 to 6000 size spinning reel or a compact conventional reel with a strong drag system.
Line:
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Use 30–50 lb braided line for sensitivity and strength. Braid has no stretch, allowing you to feel every tap and set the hook quickly.
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Attach a 3–4 foot fluorocarbon leader (30–50 lb test) using a solid FG or double uni knot.
Jigs:
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Choose metal jigs in the 2–6 oz range, depending on depth and current. Popular jig styles include:
Match the size and action of your jig to the bait present—slimmer, flutter-style jigs for sand eels and more erratic jigs for herring or mackerel.
Technique
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Find the Fish: Use sonar to locate bait balls or marks near bottom structure or steep drop-offs. Drift over the area while watching your electronics.
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Drop the Jig: Let the jig free-fall to just above the bottom. Watch for hits on the drop—stripers often strike here.
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Jig Upward: Work the jig vertically with short, sharp rod lifts (12–24 inches), allowing the jig to flutter down after each lift. Vary your retrieve to find what triggers strikes.
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Stay Vertical: Adjust your drift or use your motor to keep your line as vertical as possible. Line drag causes a less natural presentation and lowers your hookup rate.
Bonus tip: Add a teaser hook or soft plastic dropper loop 12–18 inches above the jig. This can double your chances when bass are feeding on smaller bait.
Best Times and Locations
When to Go:
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Late June to early September: When deep water holds bass during the heat and offshore schools stage before fall migrations.
Where to Try:
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Monomoy Rips: Excellent structure and current, perfect for jigging on the edges.
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Race Point: home to large stripers and even bluefin in summer.
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Canal Edges & Cape Cod Bay: Use vertical jigs when fish are holding in 40–70 feet of water.
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Buzzards Bay and the Elizabeth Islands: Boulder fields and deep channels concentrate fish.
Vertical jigging for striped bass on Cape Cod is a high-reward technique that lets you stay on fish even when surface action is scarce. It’s also one of the most direct, tactile ways to feel the bite and battle stripers in deep water.
Whether you're fishing the rips off Monomoy or the deep ledges in Cape Cod Bay, having the right gear, jig selection, and presentation can lead to some of the most memorable hook-ups of your season.