SHOP BY FISHING TECHNIQUE
BEGINNER
New to Surface Iron
FINESSE
Small Bait
YO-YO
Deep Yellowtail
HEAVY
Strong Current
HEAVY
Deep Drops
9 products
Sort by:
9 products
9 products
When the yellowtail aren't on the surface — when they're holding deep on a hard-bottom spot off the back side of Catalina, stacked on a bank out of Point Loma, or pinned to structure at the Coronados — you stop throwing surface iron and you drop the 6X. This is the yo-yo iron West Coast anglers have trusted for decades to get down to the fish and trigger a reaction bite on the way back up.
At 6.4 oz and 6 inches, the 6X Heavy is the middle weight of the Salas yo-yo lineup and the one most local anglers end up fishing most. It has enough mass to hold vertical in real current without being the anchor that a 9.8 oz PL-68 becomes on a light setup. If you own one yo-yo iron and you fish Southern California, this is usually the one.
The 6X also carries the widest belly of any yo-yo iron Salas makes at 1¼ inches. That extra width gives it a broader flash profile on the retrieve — more surface catching light as it comes up, which matters when you're trying to pull a fish off the bottom from a distance. Every 6X is hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California, so each one comes out a little different. The slight finish and weight variations aren't flaws — they're the mark of an iron built one at a time.
Why the 6X Heavy Belongs in Your Bag
Most yo-yo irons are either too light to hold vertical in current or too heavy to fish comfortably on a standard setup. The 6X Heavy hits the middle — heavy enough to stay on the spot, light enough to fish all day. Its 1¼" belly is the widest in the Salas line, throwing a broader flash profile than any other yo-yo iron they make. That extra flash is what pulls fish from a distance in low-visibility water, and it's why this jig has been a SoCal staple for decades.
When Iron Beats Everything Else
Surface iron works when fish are up. When they're not — when they're pinned to structure, holding on a hard-bottom bank, or sitting 80 feet down and refusing to move — the yo-yo is the answer. The 6X Heavy gets down fast, stays vertical in current, and triggers reaction bites on the way up that nothing else will produce. It's the jig you reach for when the surface bite dies and the fish are still there.
Built For These Fish and Situations
- Species: Yellowtail, bonito, barracuda, dorado, white seabass (opportunistic)
- Techniques: Yo-yo jigging, high-speed retrieve, deep drop
- Conditions: Deep structure, hard bottom, moderate to heavy current, low-light and dirty water
- Locations: Catalina Island, Coronado Islands, Point Loma banks, offshore high spots, San Clemente Island
- Depth range: 40–200+ ft depending on current and conditions
The Right Pick If...
- You fish Southern California day trips and want one yo-yo iron that covers most situations
- The fish are marked deep and won't come up for surface iron
- You're dealing with moderate to strong current that sweeps lighter irons off vertical
- You want the widest flash profile in the Salas yo-yo lineup
- You're targeting yellowtail on structure at Catalina, the Coronados, or offshore banks
Which Salas Iron Should You Throw?
The 6X Heavy sits in the middle of the yo-yo range. Step down to the Jr weights for shallower water and lighter current; step up to the 7X Heavy or PL-68 for deep banks and heavy conditions.
| Model | Weight | Body L × W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" × 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy (this jig) | 6.4 oz | 6" × 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width measured at the belly. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted — weights and dimensions vary slightly between units.
6X Heavy or 7X Heavy? The 7X Heavy is 8.1 oz and 6 3/8" long but narrower at 1 1/8". The 6X Heavy is 6.4 oz, slightly shorter at 6", and wider at 1 1/4". In practice the 6X is the everyday local yo-yo iron and the 7X Heavy is what you reach for when depth or current beats it. If you're buying your first full-weight yo-yo iron for Southern California day trips, start with the 6X.
Key Features
- 6.4 oz — middle weight of the Salas yo-yo lineup, holds vertical in real current
- 1¼" belly width — the widest of any Salas yo-yo iron, maximum flash on the retrieve
- 6" body length — compact enough for a fast retrieve, heavy enough to stay on the spot
- Hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California — slight variation is part of the product
- Available in 16 hand-painted colors plus a Chrome Single Hook option
- Typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook; Chrome Single Hook ships with a single hook
- Sold individually (1 jig per order)
Models & Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Salas 6X Heavy (yo-yo) |
| Weight | 6.4 oz |
| Body length | 6" |
| Width at belly | 1 1/4" — widest yo-yo iron in the Salas line |
| Style | Yo-yo iron |
| Hook | Heavy-duty treble (standard colors); single hook (Chrome Single Hook option) |
| Construction | Hand-cast, hand-painted |
| Quantity | 1 jig per order |
| Origin | Made in Southern California, USA |
Each jig is hand-made — weight and dimensions vary slightly unit to unit.
Hooks and Options
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. The Chrome Single Hook option ships with a single hook and a bare plated finish, priced separately from the hand-painted colors. A single hook is easier to remove, does less damage to fish you plan to release, and causes fewer tangles on a crowded rail. A treble gives more points of contact on a fish that strikes short. Neither is universally better — it comes down to how and where you fish.
Picking a Color
Down deep, light is scarce and contrast matters more than fine detail. High-contrast and bright patterns generally out-produce subtle ones on the yo-yo.
| Conditions | Start Here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Low light, overcast, dirty or deep water | Wounded Soldier, Scrambled Egg, Baby Poop | High-contrast patterns that stay readable where light is scarce |
| Red crab hatches and reddish forage | Red Crab, Red White | Direct match when yellows are keyed on crab |
| Sardines and mackerel on the meter | Blue White, Blue Mackerel, Mint Sardine, Blue Sardine | Baitfish tones matching what the fish are eating |
| Bright sun, clean blue water | Mint, Mint White | The traditional SoCal answer when light penetrates well |
| Green or off-color water | Green Sardine, Green Yellow | Higher contrast so the jig stays visible |
| Dorado and bright pelagic patterns | Dorado, Tumbled Dorado, Rainbow Sardine | Bright profiles for aggressive, competitive fish |
Color availability changes constantly — check the option menu above for what's in stock now.
How to Fish the Yo-Yo
Drop it straight down — to the bottom, or to the depth where you're marking fish. The moment it lands, wind as fast as you can turn the handle and keep winding all the way to the boat. Do not pump the rod. Speed is what triggers the bite, and most strikes come partway up rather than at the bottom.
At 6.4 oz the 6X holds vertical better than the Jr weights, so you keep contact in current instead of drifting off the spot. If the jig feels like it's fluttering or vibrating oddly, it's spinning rather than swimming — usually twisted line or an uneven retrieve.
Recommended gear:
- Rod: 7–8 ft fast-taper jig rod with real backbone for pulling fish off structure
- Reel: High-speed conventional, 6:1 or faster — retrieve speed is the technique
- Line: 40–65 lb depending on depth and structure
- Leader: 40–50 lb fluorocarbon; go heavier around rocks and hard structure
Tackle Express Tips
- If you only buy one Salas yo-yo iron for local fishing, make it this one — it covers the widest range of local conditions. The wide belly throws more flash than the narrower irons, which is an advantage in dirty water but a liability when fish are spooky. Go narrower if the wide profile is getting refused.
- A slow reel costs you fish. Yo-yo is a speed technique and gear ratio matters more than most anglers expect. Watch your line on the drop too — yellowtail eat it falling, and the only tell is the line going slack early.
- If you fish a crowded rail or release a lot of fish, the single hook option is worth a look. Lock up your drag early over structure — a yellow that gets its head down will find the rocks.
FAQ
What hook does it come with?
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. The Chrome Single Hook option ships with a single hook instead and is priced separately. Select the configuration you want by name in the option menu above.
Should I choose a single hook or a treble?
A single hook is easier to remove, does less damage to fish you plan to release, and causes fewer tangles on a crowded rail. A treble offers more points of contact on a fish that strikes short. Pick based on how you fish rather than assuming one is better.
How is the 6X Heavy different from the 6X Jr Heavy?
The 6X Heavy is 6.4 oz and 6" long. The 6X Jr Heavy is 4.8 oz and 4 5/8" — noticeably lighter and shorter. The Jr suits moderate depth and lighter current; the 6X Heavy holds vertical in more current and gets down faster.
Should I get the 6X Heavy or the 7X Heavy?
The 6X Heavy at 6.4 oz is the everyday local choice. The 7X Heavy at 8.1 oz is the step up for deeper banks and heavier current. If it's your first full-weight yo-yo iron for Southern California day trips, start with the 6X.
Do I need a high-speed reel?
It makes a real difference. Yo-yo fishing depends on retrieve speed, and a 6:1 or faster reel moves the jig the way the technique requires. A slower reel will still catch fish, just fewer.
Are all the jigs identical?
No. Each one is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weight, dimensions, and paint detail vary slightly from jig to jig. That variation is part of the product, not a defect.
Complete the Setup
- Salas 6X Jr Heavy — 4.8 oz compact version for shallower water
- Salas 7X Jr Heavy — 4.8 oz, longer and slimmer profile
- Salas 7X Heavy — 8.1 oz for deeper banks and heavier current
- Salas PL-68 Heavy — 9.8 oz, the heaviest iron in the line
- Shop all yo-yo jigs | Shop yellowtail lures | Shop all Salas
Not sure how heavy to go, or which hook setup you want? Come see us at Tackle Express on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. We fish these on local boats and out of San Diego, and we'd rather talk you into the right one than sell you the wrong one.
When yellowtail are boiling around a kelp paddy off Catalina, pushing bait along the Channel Islands kelp lines, or chasing sardines through the La Jolla canyons, the Salas 7X Light Surface Iron Jig is what goes on first. This is not a trendy jig. It has been earning its spot in Southern California tackle bags for over 50 years because it does exactly what a surface iron needs to do: casts a country mile, lands flat, and swims with a side-to-side kick that yellowtail cannot leave alone.
The 7X Light Profile — Built for the Long Cast and the Slow Swim
At 3.5 oz and 6 3/8 inches, the 7X Light sits in the sweet spot that works equally well on the iron rods of a full-day sportboat or off the bow of a private boat drifting into a Baja kelp paddy. The offset hips give it a slower, wider kick than a straight-body iron, which matters when yellows are picky or water temps are running cool. When the fish want a fast burn, you can speed it up. When they want it lazy, you can slow it down. Few surface irons cover that much range.
Every 7X is hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California, so each one comes out slightly different. Small variations in finish and weight are normal and expected. This is not factory-perfect paint, and it was never meant to be.
The Right Pick If...
- You throw surface iron for yellowtail off Catalina, the Channel Islands, or San Diego
- You want the standard-size 7X profile rather than the smaller Jr or a deep yo-yo iron
- You fish a dedicated iron stick and a conventional jig reel and want a jig that swims at a range of retrieve speeds
- You want a hand-made Southern California iron with a 50-year track record, not a mass-produced import
Best Fishing Techniques
- Long-cast surface iron retrieves along kelp lines and boiler rock
- Fan-casting kelp paddies for yellowtail and dorado
- Slow-wind presentations when fish are showing but not committing
- Working the shady side of a paddy from the bow of a sportboat
- Casting to breezing or boiling surface-feeding fish
Best Conditions
- Fish pushing bait to the surface — boils, breezers, and working birds
- Kelp edges, paddies, and shallow structure where a deep jig would hang up
- Clean to lightly off-color water where a natural baitfish profile reads well
- Morning grey light and glassy conditions when a slow, wide kick outfishes speed
Best For
- Species: Yellowtail, calico bass, dorado, barracuda, bonito, surface-feeding tuna
- Techniques: Surface iron casting, kelp paddy fishing, kelp-line retrieves, structure casting
- Use Cases: SoCal sportboat jig stick, private boater kelp paddy setup, Baja long-range surface iron
Key Features
- 3.5 oz surface iron weight — stays up top through the retrieve instead of digging down
- 6 3/8" body with offset hips — produces a wide, slow side-to-side kick rather than a tight wobble
- Long-casting profile — reaches paddies and kelp lines you cannot get to with a bait
- Hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California — each jig is individually finished
- Shares the 7X body shape with the 7X Heavy yo-yo iron — same silhouette, opposite sink rate
- Available in a deep color range covering clear water, green water, and low light
- Sold individually, typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook
Where the 7X Light Shines
- Yellowtail working Catalina and Channel Islands kelp structure
- Kelp paddy fishing from La Jolla to Ensenada and south
- Coastal kelp edges when fish are pushing bait to the surface
- Calico bass over shallow kelp and boiler rock
- Baja sessions on yellowtail, dorado, and surface-feeding tuna
Models & Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Salas 7X Light |
| Weight | 3.5 oz |
| Body length | 6 3/8" |
| Width at belly | 1 1/8" |
| Style | Surface iron (light) |
| Hook | Typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook |
| Construction | Hand-cast, hand-painted |
| Quantity | Sold individually (1 jig) |
| Origin | Made in Southern California, USA |
Because each jig is hand-made, weight and dimensions vary slightly unit to unit.
Which Salas Iron Should You Throw?
The 7X Light is the standard-size surface iron. If you want a smaller profile for picky fish, drop to the 7X Jr. If the fish are deep and will not come up, you want a yo-yo iron instead.
| Model | Weight | Body L × W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" × 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light (this jig) | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy | 6.4 oz | 6" × 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width is measured at the belly, the jig's widest point. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weights and dimensions vary slightly between units.
Worth knowing: the 7X Light and 7X Heavy share the same 6 3/8" body. Same silhouette in the water, very different sink rate — one stays up top, one gets down. Anglers who like the 7X profile often carry both.
Picking a Color
Color matters less than presentation on the iron, but it matters. Match the bait first, then adjust for light and water clarity.
| Conditions | Start here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Sardines on the surface, clean water | Blue & White, Blue Sardine, Mint Sardine | Baitfish tones that read natural in clear water |
| Bright sun, flat calm | Mint, Mint White | The traditional SoCal kelp-line answer on a glassy morning |
| Green or off-color water | Scrambled Egg, Green Yellow, Baby Poop | Higher contrast so the jig stays visible |
| Low light, early grey, overcast | Green Black, Wounded Soldier | Dark topside silhouettes against a bright surface |
| Dorado around paddies and kelp | Dorado, Tumbled Dorado, Rainbow Sardine | Bright profiles for aggressive, competitive fish |
| Red crab hatches, calico over kelp | Red Crab, Red White | Matches red crab and other reddish forage |
Color availability changes constantly. Check the color menu above this description for what we can ship right now.
How to Fish It
Cast it as far as you can, let it settle for a beat so it lands flat, then start a slow, steady wind with the rod tip low. You are looking for a wide, lazy side-to-side roll, not a fast wobble. If the jig is spinning or tracking flat, you are winding too fast. Slow down until you feel the kick load up on the rod tip.
On a full-day boat, work the kelp edges and the shady side of a paddy first. Let the jig sink deeper before you start the retrieve when fish are showing under the surface rather than boiling on top.
Recommended Gear
- Rod: 8–9 ft moderate-action surface iron stick
- Reel: Conventional narrow-spool jig reel in the 200–300 class
- Line: 30–50 lb mono or a mono top shot — mono's stretch protects against pulled hooks on a head-shaking yellow
- Leader: 30–40 lb fluorocarbon in clear, calm water off Catalina or the islands; heavier around Baja structure
Tackle Express Tips
- Slow is almost always the answer. Most anglers new to the iron burn it back way too fast. If you are not sure, wind slower.
- Let it land flat. Feather the cast at the end so the jig hits the water sideways instead of nose-first. It starts swimming immediately instead of tumbling.
- Fan your casts around a paddy instead of hitting the same lane. Yellows often sit on one specific side of the shade line.
- Carry the same color in two shades of brightness. When the bite dies on one, the other frequently restarts it.
Common Mistakes
- Winding too fast. Kills the side-to-side kick and turns the jig into a spinning tube.
- Fishing straight braid to the jig. No stretch means pulled hooks on the head shake. Run a mono top shot.
- Setting the hook like a bass fisherman. Keep winding and let the rod load. Swinging on the bite pulls the iron away from the fish.
- Reaching for the 7X Light when the fish are deep. A 3.5 oz surface iron will not get down. Switch to a yo-yo iron.
- Rinsing and packing it wet. Rinse in fresh water and let it dry fully before it goes back in the jig bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. Hook configuration can vary across the Salas range — where a specific option ships with a single hook, that is stated in the option name. Same 6 3/8" body and the same profile in the water, but the Light is 3.5 oz and the Heavy is 8.1 oz. The Light is a surface iron you throw and wind back on top. The Heavy is a yo-yo iron you drop deep and crank back fast. Different techniques entirely. The 7X Jr is smaller and lighter at 2.1 oz and 5 3/8". Go to the Jr when fish are keyed on small bait or acting picky. Stay with the 7X Light when you need casting distance or the bait is bigger. 30–50 lb mono, or braid with a mono top shot. The stretch matters — straight braid to a surface iron pulls hooks on head-shaking yellowtail. You are almost certainly winding too fast. Slow the retrieve until you feel a wide, rhythmic side-to-side kick loading the rod tip. Retrieve speed is the single biggest variable in fishing the iron. Yes, and that is normal. These are hand-painted irons and the finish takes a beating from teeth, rails, and rocks. Chipped paint does not stop the jig from catching fish — plenty of anglers swear their beat-up irons fish better. No. Each one is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weight, dimensions, and paint detail vary slightly from jig to jig. That variation is part of the product, not a defect. Yes. It was designed around SoCal and Baja yellowtail, but surface irons work anywhere pelagic fish push bait to the surface. Customers have fished them well outside the West Coast.What hook does the Salas 7X Light come with?
What is the difference between the 7X Light and the 7X Heavy?
How is the 7X Light different from the 7X Jr?
What line should I use with a surface iron?
Why does my jig spin instead of swimming?
Will the paint chip?
Are all the jigs identical?
Can I fish the 7X Light outside Southern California?
Complete the Setup
- Salas 7X Jr Surface Iron — smaller 2.1 oz profile for picky fish and small bait
- Salas O Pop — 3.2 oz with a concave face for surface commotion
- Salas 7X Heavy Yo-Yo — same body, 8.1 oz, for when fish hold deep
- Salas 6X Heavy Yo-Yo — the classic deep yellowtail yo-yo iron
- Salas PL-68 Heavy Yo-Yo — 9.8 oz for deep water and heavy current
- Shop all surface irons | Shop all Salas
Questions about which iron to throw? Come see us at Tackle Express on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. We fish these jigs on local boats and out of San Diego, and we would rather talk you into the right one than sell you the wrong one.
At 4 5/8 inches, the 6X Jr Heavy is the shortest iron Salas makes — and at 4.8 oz it carries that weight in a noticeably stouter body than anything else in the line. That combination is the entire reason to own one. When yellowtail are eating something short and thick rather than long and slender, a compact iron matches the meal in a way a 6-inch jig cannot.
It is also, along with the 7X Jr Heavy, the lightest yo-yo iron Salas offers. That makes it a sensible first yo-yo jig. You do not need specialized deep-water tackle to fish it, and it works the moderate-depth high spots and ridges where a lot of the best local yellowtail bite actually happens — not just the deep offshore banks.
The technique is speed. Drop it to the bottom or to the marks, then wind as fast as you can turn the handle, all the way back to the boat. The short, heavy body holds its swimming action at that speed instead of spinning out. Most bites come partway up, from fish that follow the flash and commit.
Know the ceiling: 4.8 oz will get swept in ripping current or serious depth. When that happens, step up to the 6X Heavy, 7X Heavy, or PL-68.
Every 6X Jr Heavy is hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California, so each one comes out slightly different. Small variations in finish and weight are normal and expected.
Where the 6X Jr Heavy shines
- Yellowtail keyed on short, thick forage rather than long baitfish
- High spots, ridges, and hard bottom in moderate depth
- Day trips out of San Diego, Long Beach, and the local islands
- Light to moderate current, where a heavy iron is overkill
- Bonito and barracuda that crash a fast-cranked iron
- Anglers buying their first yo-yo iron
Which Salas iron should you throw?
The 6X Jr Heavy is the most compact iron in the lineup and ties for the lightest yo-yo. Go heavier as depth and current increase.
| Model | Weight | Body L × W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" × 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy (this jig) | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy | 6.4 oz | 6" × 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width is measured at the belly, the jig’s widest point. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weights and dimensions vary slightly between units.
6X Jr Heavy or 7X Jr Heavy?
This is the most common question we get on Salas yo-yo irons, because both jigs weigh exactly 4.8 oz. Weight is not the difference — profile is. The 6X Jr Heavy is 4 5/8" and stout. The 7X Jr Heavy is 5 3/8" and slimmer. Pick the 6X Jr Heavy when fish are on shorter, thicker forage, and the 7X Jr Heavy when they are on longer baitfish like sardine and mackerel. If you fish local yellowtail and want one of the two, the longer 7X profile is the more common all-around pick; the 6X Jr Heavy is what you add when the standard profile stops working.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Salas 6X Jr Heavy (yo-yo) |
| Weight | 4.8 oz |
| Body length | 4 5/8" |
| Width at belly | 1" |
| Style | Yo-yo iron |
| Hook | Typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook |
| Construction | Hand-cast, hand-painted |
| Quantity | Sold individually (1 jig) |
| Origin | Made in Southern California, USA |
Because each jig is hand-made, weight and dimensions vary slightly unit to unit. Chrome and Chrome Blue Holo Back are plated finishes offered as separate options and are priced differently from the hand-painted colors.
Picking a color
Down deep, light is scarce and contrast matters more than fine detail. High-contrast and bright patterns generally out-produce subtle ones on the yo-yo.
| Conditions | Start here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Low light, overcast, dirty or deep water | Wounded Soldier, Scrambled Egg | High-contrast patterns that stay readable where light is scarce |
| Red crab hatches and reddish forage | Red Crab, Red White | Direct match when yellows are keyed on crab |
| Sardines and mackerel on the meter | Blue White, Mint Sardine, Blue Sardine | Baitfish tones matching what the fish are eating |
| Bright sun, clean blue water | Mint, Mint White | The traditional SoCal answer when light penetrates well |
| Green or off-color water | Green Sardine, Green Yellow, Baby Poop | Higher contrast so the jig stays visible |
| Maximum flash, any depth | Chrome, Chrome Blue Holo Back | Bare plated finishes throw more flash than paint; priced separately |
This jig is offered in a wide color range and availability changes constantly. Check the color menu above this description for what we can ship right now.
How to fish it
Drop it straight down — to the bottom, or to the depth where you are marking fish. The moment it arrives, start winding as fast as you can turn the handle and keep winding all the way up. Do not pump the rod. Speed triggers the bite, and most strikes come partway up rather than at the bottom.
If the jig feels like it is fluttering or vibrating strangely, it is spinning rather than swimming — usually twisted line or an uneven retrieve. Keep the wind constant.
Recommended gear
- Rod: 7–8 ft fast-taper jig rod with enough backbone to turn fish off structure
- Reel: High-speed conventional, 6:1 or faster — retrieve speed is the technique
- Line: 40–50 lb for this weight class; heavier only if the structure demands it
- Leader: 40 lb fluorocarbon is a sensible default in clear water
Pro tips from the shop
- Carry this alongside the 7X Jr Heavy, not instead of it. Same weight, different profile — switching between them is a real adjustment when the bite stalls.
- A slow reel costs you fish. If you own one high-speed reel, this is what it is for.
- Watch your line on the drop. Yellowtail eat it falling, and the only tell is the line going slack early.
- The short body makes this a good choice on windy days when you want a compact jig that drops fast without going up in weight.
Common mistakes
- Winding too slowly. The opposite problem from surface iron. If your arm is not tired, you are going too slow.
- Pumping the rod. Wind steadily with the rod low. Pumping creates slack and kills the action.
- Assuming it is heavier because it is stouter. It is 4.8 oz — tied for the lightest yo-yo iron in the line, not a deep-water tool.
- Light drag over structure. A yellow that gets its head down will find the rocks. Lock up and turn it early.
- Packing it away wet. Rinse in fresh water and dry it fully before it goes back in the bag.
Frequently asked questions
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. Hook configuration can vary across the Salas range — where a specific option ships with a single hook, that is stated in the option name. Both weigh 4.8 oz. The 6X Jr Heavy is shorter and stouter at 4 5/8" × 1"; the 7X Jr Heavy is longer and slimmer at 5 3/8" × 1". Choose by the profile of the bait the fish are eating, not by weight. Not really. At 4.8 oz it ties for the lightest yo-yo iron Salas makes. It suits moderate depth and light to moderate current. For deep banks or ripping current, step up to the 6X Heavy at 6.4 oz, the 7X Heavy at 8.1 oz, or the PL-68 at 9.8 oz. The 6X Heavy is 6.4 oz and 6" long — a genuine step up in both weight and size. The Jr is the compact, lighter version for shallower water and lighter current. It makes a real difference. Yo-yo fishing depends on retrieve speed, and a 6:1 or faster reel moves the jig the way the technique requires. A slower reel will still catch fish, just fewer. Chrome and Chrome Blue Holo Back are plated finishes rather than hand-painted ones, and they are priced separately from the painted colors. They throw more flash; the painted patterns give you color matching. No. Each one is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weight, dimensions, and paint detail vary slightly from jig to jig. That variation is part of the product, not a defect.What hook does it come with?
What is the difference between the 6X Jr Heavy and the 7X Jr Heavy?
Is this a deep-water jig?
How is this different from the 6X Heavy?
Do I need a high-speed reel?
Why are the Chrome options priced differently?
Are all the jigs identical?
Complete the setup
- Salas 7X Jr Heavy — same 4.8 oz, longer and slimmer profile
- Salas 6X Heavy — 6.4 oz when you need more depth and current
- Salas 7X Heavy — 8.1 oz for deep banks and heavy structure
- Salas PL-68 Heavy — 9.8 oz, the heaviest iron in the line
- Shop all yo-yo jigs | Shop yellowtail lures | Shop all Salas
Torn between the 6X Jr and the 7X Jr? Come see us at Tackle Express on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. You can hold both, and we would rather talk you into the right profile than sell you the wrong one.
The 7X Heavy is the same jig as the 7X Light in every dimension that matters — 6 3/8 inches long, 1 1/8 inches at the belly, the identical offset-hip 7X silhouette that has been catching West Coast yellowtail for over fifty years. The only difference is that it weighs 8.1 oz instead of 3.5. Same shape in the water, more than twice the mass.
That is the entire design idea, and it is a good one. Fish that recognize and eat the 7X profile on the surface will eat the same profile at depth. When the yellows are stacked 150 feet down on a hard-bottom high spot instead of boiling on a paddy, you are not asking them to accept a different shape — just the same one, delivered deeper and moving faster.
At 8.1 oz in a relatively narrow 1 1/8" body, the 7X Heavy is the most current-cutting iron in the Salas lineup short of the PL-68. Weight without extra width means it drops fast and holds vertical when the 6X Heavy starts sliding off the spot. This is the iron for deep banks, hard current, and the days when lighter jigs never reach the zone.
Every 7X Heavy is hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California, so each one comes out slightly different. Small variations in finish and weight are normal and expected.
Where the 7X Heavy shines
- Deep yellowtail stacked on banks, high spots, and hard bottom
- Strong current where lighter irons get swept off vertical
- The Coronados, offshore banks, and out toward long-range grounds
- Deep-holding tuna that will chase a fast-cranked iron
- Anglers who already fish the 7X Light and want the same profile at depth
Which Salas iron should you throw?
The 7X Heavy is the second-heaviest iron in the line. Step down to the 6X Heavy for everyday local depth; step up to the PL-68 only when conditions genuinely demand it.
| Model | Weight | Body L × W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" × 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy | 6.4 oz | 6" × 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy (this jig) | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width is measured at the belly, the jig’s widest point. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weights and dimensions vary slightly between units.
7X Heavy or 6X Heavy?
The 6X Heavy is 6.4 oz in a 6" body that is wider at the belly (1 1/4"). The 7X Heavy is 8.1 oz in a longer but narrower body (6 3/8" × 1 1/8"). More weight in less width means the 7X Heavy drops faster and fights current better; the 6X throws a broader flash. Most local anglers own the 6X first and add the 7X Heavy for the deep, hard-current days.
7X Heavy or PL-68?
The PL-68 is 9.8 oz and 7 1/2" long — heavier and substantially bigger. The 7X Heavy gets you most of the depth capability in the familiar 7X profile. Go PL-68 when you are on a long-range trip or facing conditions that beat 8.1 oz.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Salas 7X Heavy (yo-yo) |
| Weight | 8.1 oz |
| Body length | 6 3/8" |
| Width at belly | 1 1/8" |
| Style | Yo-yo iron |
| Hook | Typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook |
| Shares a body with | Salas 7X Light (3.5 oz surface iron) |
| Construction | Hand-cast, hand-painted |
| Quantity | Sold individually (1 jig) |
| Origin | Made in Southern California, USA |
Because each jig is hand-made, weight and dimensions vary slightly unit to unit.
Picking a color
Down deep, light is scarce and contrast matters more than fine detail. High-contrast and bright patterns generally out-produce subtle ones on the yo-yo.
| Conditions | Start here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Deep water, low light, dirty water | Scrambled Egg, Baby Poop, Yellow | High-contrast patterns that stay readable where light is scarce |
| Mackerel on the meter | Green Mackerel | Direct match when yellows are feeding on greenback |
| Sardines and smaller baitfish | Mint Sardine | Baitfish tones matching what the fish are eating |
| Bright sun, clean blue water | Mint | The traditional SoCal answer when light penetrates well |
Color availability changes constantly. Check the color menu above this description for what we can ship right now.
How to fish it
Drop it straight down — to the bottom, or to the depth where you are marking fish. The moment it lands, wind as fast as you can turn the handle and keep winding all the way to the boat. Do not pump the rod. Speed is what triggers the bite, and most strikes come partway up rather than at the bottom.
At 8.1 oz you get down fast and stay vertical, which is exactly what you want when current is running. The tradeoff is that a full day of cranking 8 oz is real work — this is a jig you deploy when conditions call for it, not one you throw all day for fun.
Recommended gear
- Rod: Fast-taper jig rod rated for heavy iron, with the backbone to turn fish off deep structure
- Reel: High-speed conventional, 6:1 or faster, with the line capacity for deep drops
- Line: 50–65 lb for deep water and heavy structure
- Leader: 50 lb fluorocarbon as a sensible default; heavier around hard structure
Pro tips from the shop
- If you already fish the 7X Light on the surface, this is the most intuitive yo-yo iron to add. Same shape, same confidence, different depth.
- A slow reel costs you fish. At this weight, gear ratio and cranking power both matter.
- Watch your line on the drop. Yellowtail eat it falling, and the only tell is the line going slack early.
- Do not default to it. On calm days in moderate depth, the 6X Heavy will out-fish it simply because you can work it longer without wearing out.
Common mistakes
- Fishing it when you don’t need it. 8.1 oz is a lot of jig for moderate depth and light current. Match the weight to the conditions.
- Winding too slowly. The opposite problem from surface iron. If your arm is not tired, you are going too slow.
- Pumping the rod. Wind steadily with the rod low. Pumping creates slack and kills the action.
- Undersized rod. A rod that will not handle 8 oz turns every drop into a fight with your own tackle.
- Packing it away wet. Rinse in fresh water and dry it fully before it goes back in the bag.
Frequently asked questions
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. Hook configuration can vary across the Salas range — where a specific option ships with a single hook, that is stated in the option name. Yes. Both are 6 3/8" long and 1 1/8" at the belly — the same 7X body. The Light is 3.5 oz and fishes on the surface; the Heavy is 8.1 oz and drops deep. Same silhouette, different technique. The 6X Heavy at 6.4 oz is the everyday local yo-yo iron. The 7X Heavy at 8.1 oz drops faster and cuts current better because it carries more weight in a narrower body. Most anglers own the 6X first and add the 7X Heavy for deep, hard-current days. It works for a lot of long-range situations. When you need more — deeper drops, heavier current — the PL-68 at 9.8 oz is the next step up and the heaviest iron Salas makes. A fast-taper jig rod rated for heavy iron, a high-speed conventional reel at 6:1 or faster, and 50–65 lb line depending on depth and structure. Undersized gear makes this weight miserable to fish. It makes a real difference. Yo-yo fishing depends on retrieve speed, and a 6:1 or faster reel moves the jig the way the technique requires. A slower reel will still catch fish, just fewer. No. Each one is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weight, dimensions, and paint detail vary slightly from jig to jig. That variation is part of the product, not a defect.What hook does it come with?
Is the 7X Heavy the same shape as the 7X Light?
Should I get the 7X Heavy or the 6X Heavy?
Is this heavy enough for long-range trips?
What rod and line should I use?
Do I need a high-speed reel?
Are all the jigs identical?
Complete the setup
- Salas 7X Light — the same 6 3/8" body at 3.5 oz, for surface fishing
- Salas 6X Heavy — 6.4 oz, the everyday local yo-yo iron
- Salas PL-68 Heavy — 9.8 oz, the heaviest iron in the line
- Salas 7X Jr Heavy — 4.8 oz for moderate depth and lighter current
- Shop all yo-yo jigs | Shop yellowtail lures | Shop all Salas
Not sure whether you need 6.4 oz or 8.1 oz? Come see us at Tackle Express on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. We fish these on local boats and out of San Diego, and we would rather talk you into the right weight than sell you the wrong one.
At 4.8 oz, the 7X Jr Heavy is the lightest yo-yo iron in the Salas lineup. That makes it the one most anglers should start with. Yo-yo fishing does not always mean 300 feet of water and a screaming current — a lot of the best yellowtail yo-yo bite happens over high spots, ridges, and hard bottom in moderate depth, and that is exactly where a 4.8 oz iron belongs. It gets down without overshooting the zone, and you can crank it back on tackle you already own.
The retrieve is the whole technique. Drop it to the bottom or to the meter marks where fish are showing, then wind as fast as you can turn the handle. The 7X Jr Heavy holds its swimming action at that speed instead of spinning out, and that fleeing, flashing profile is what makes a deep yellowtail commit. Fish that ignored bait all morning will turn and eat a fast-cranked iron.
Know the ceiling: at 4.8 oz this is not a heavy-current or long-range jig. If you are fishing deep banks, ripping current, or a long-range trip, step up to the 6X Heavy, 7X Heavy, or PL-68. The Jr Heavy is a day-trip yo-yo iron, and it is very good at that job.
Every 7X Jr Heavy is hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California, so each one comes out slightly different. Small variations in finish and weight are normal and expected.
Where the 7X Jr Heavy shines
- Yellowtail holding on high spots, ridges, and hard bottom in moderate depth
- Day trips out of San Diego, Long Beach, and the local islands
- Fish marked below the surface that won’t come up for surface iron
- Light to moderate current, where a heavy iron would be overkill
- Bonito and barracuda that crash a fast-cranked iron
- Anglers new to yo-yo fishing who don’t own dedicated heavy gear yet
Which Salas iron should you throw?
The 7X Jr Heavy is the entry point into yo-yo fishing — the lightest of the four yo-yo irons. Go heavier as depth and current increase.
| Model | Weight | Body L × W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" × 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy (this jig) | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy | 6.4 oz | 6" × 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width is measured at the belly, the jig’s widest point. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weights and dimensions vary slightly between units.
7X Jr Heavy or 6X Jr Heavy?
This is the question we get most, because both are 4.8 oz. The difference is profile, not weight. The 7X Jr Heavy is longer and slimmer at 5 3/8" × 1". The 6X Jr Heavy is shorter and stouter at 4 5/8" × 1". Match the bait: pick the 7X Jr Heavy when fish are on longer forage like sardine and mackerel, and the 6X Jr Heavy when they are on something shorter and thicker. If you are undecided, the longer 7X profile is the more common all-around choice for local yellowtail.
Also worth knowing: the 7X Jr Heavy and the surface-iron 7X Jr share the same 5 3/8" body. Same silhouette, 4.8 oz versus 2.1 oz. One drops, one stays up top.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Salas 7X Jr Heavy (yo-yo) |
| Weight | 4.8 oz |
| Body length | 5 3/8" |
| Width at belly | 1" |
| Style | Yo-yo iron |
| Hook | Typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook |
| Construction | Hand-cast, hand-painted |
| Quantity | Sold individually (1 jig) |
| Origin | Made in Southern California, USA |
Because each jig is hand-made, weight and dimensions vary slightly unit to unit. Chrome is a plated finish offered as a separate option and is priced differently from the painted colors.
Picking a color
Down deep, light is scarce and contrast matters more than fine detail. Bright and high-contrast patterns generally out-produce subtle ones on the yo-yo.
| Conditions | Start here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Deep water, low light, dirty water | Scrambled Egg | The classic high-contrast yo-yo color for yellowtail |
| Sardines and mackerel on the meter | Blue and White, Mint Sardine | Baitfish tones that match what the fish are eating |
| Bright sun, clean blue water | Mint, Mint White | The traditional SoCal answer when light penetrates well |
| Maximum flash, any depth | Chrome | Bare plated finish throws more flash than paint; priced separately |
Color availability changes constantly. Check the color menu above this description for what we can ship right now.
How to fish it
Drop it straight down — to the bottom, or to the depth where you are marking fish. As soon as it hits, start winding as fast as you can turn the handle and keep winding all the way to the boat. Do not pump the rod. Speed is what triggers the bite, and most of the strikes come partway up, not at the bottom.
If you feel the jig vibrating oddly or fluttering, it is spinning instead of swimming — usually a sign the line is twisted or the retrieve is uneven. Keep the wind steady and constant.
Recommended gear
- Rod: 7–8 ft fast-taper jig rod with enough backbone to pull fish off structure
- Reel: High-speed conventional, 6:1 or faster — retrieve speed is the technique
- Line: 40–50 lb for this weight class; heavier only if the structure demands it
- Leader: 40 lb fluorocarbon is a sensible default in clear water
Pro tips from the shop
- A slow reel will cost you fish. If you own one high-speed reel, this is what it is for.
- Expect the bite on the way up, often in the middle of the water column. Keep winding through it.
- Watch your line on the drop. Yellowtail will eat it falling, and the only tell is line going slack early.
- Start with Scrambled Egg if you have no other information. It has been the default deep yellowtail color here for decades.
Common mistakes
- Winding too slowly. The opposite problem from surface iron. Yo-yo is a speed technique — if your arm is not tired, you are going too slow.
- Pumping the rod. Wind steadily with the rod low. Pumping creates slack and kills the action.
- Buying it for deep, heavy-current spots. At 4.8 oz it will get swept. Move up to the 6X Heavy, 7X Heavy, or PL-68.
- Light drag over structure. A yellow that gets its head down will find the rocks. Lock up and turn it early.
- Packing it away wet. Rinse in fresh water and dry it fully before it goes back in the bag.
Frequently asked questions
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. Hook configuration can vary across the Salas range — where a specific option ships with a single hook, that is stated in the option name. No — it is the lightest. At 4.8 oz the 7X Jr Heavy ties with the 6X Jr Heavy as the lightest yo-yo in the line. The 6X Heavy is 6.4 oz, the 7X Heavy is 8.1 oz, and the PL-68 is 9.8 oz. Both are 4.8 oz. The 7X Jr Heavy is longer and slimmer at 5 3/8" × 1"; the 6X Jr Heavy is shorter and stouter at 4 5/8" × 1". Choose by bait profile, not by weight. Same 5 3/8" body, different weight and different technique. The surface 7X Jr is 2.1 oz — you cast it and wind it back on top. This one is 4.8 oz — you drop it deep and crank it back fast. It works well in moderate depth with light to moderate current. In deep water or ripping current a 4.8 oz iron gets swept off vertical and you lose contact — that is when you step up in weight. It makes a real difference. Yo-yo fishing depends on retrieve speed, and a 6:1 or faster reel moves the jig the way the technique requires. A slower reel will still catch fish, just fewer. Chrome is a plated finish rather than a hand-painted one, and it is priced separately from the painted colors. It throws more flash; the painted patterns give you color matching. No. Each one is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weight, dimensions, and paint detail vary slightly from jig to jig. That variation is part of the product, not a defect.What hook does it come with?
Is this the heaviest Salas yo-yo iron?
What is the difference between the 7X Jr Heavy and the 6X Jr Heavy?
How is this different from the 7X Jr surface iron?
What depth can I fish it in?
Do I need a high-speed reel?
Why is the Chrome option priced differently?
Are all the jigs identical?
Complete the setup
- Salas 7X Jr — same 5 3/8" body at 2.1 oz, for surface fishing
- Salas 6X Jr Heavy — same 4.8 oz, shorter and stouter profile
- Salas 6X Heavy — 6.4 oz when you need more depth and current
- Salas 7X Heavy — 8.1 oz for deep banks and heavy structure
- Shop all yo-yo jigs | Shop yellowtail lures | Shop all Salas
New to yo-yo fishing and not sure how heavy to go? Come see us at Tackle Express on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. We fish these on local boats and out of San Diego, and we would rather talk you into the right weight than sell you the wrong one.
At 2.1 oz and 5 3/8 inches, the 7X Jr is the lightest iron Salas makes. That is the whole point of it. When the fish are keyed on small bait, when the water is flat and clear and they are looking at everything twice, or when you are throwing at calico over shallow kelp on light line, a full-size iron is simply too much jig. The Jr gives you the same proven 7X shape in a profile that finicky fish will actually eat.
The light weight changes how it fishes. It sinks slower, so it stays in the strike zone longer over shallow structure without hanging up. It swims with a tighter, quicker kick than the 3.5 oz 7X Light. And it is far more forgiving on lighter line and lighter rods — you do not need a full-size iron stick to throw it properly.
Be clear on the tradeoff: 2.1 oz will not cut wind and will not reach a boil at distance. On a breezy afternoon or when you need to reach the far side of a paddy, step up to the 7X Light. The Jr is a finesse tool, not a distance tool.
Every 7X Jr is hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California, so each one comes out slightly different. Small variations in finish and weight are normal and expected.
Where the 7X Jr shines
- Calico bass over shallow kelp, boiler rock, and hard bottom
- Picky yellowtail that have refused a full-size iron
- Small bait — anchovies, small sardines, and micro forage
- Flat, clear, calm water where a big jig looks wrong
- Light-line and light-tackle setups, including smaller rods
- Barracuda and bonito working small bait on the surface
Which Salas iron should you throw?
The 7X Jr is the lightest option in the entire Salas lineup. If you need distance or wind-cutting weight, move up to the 7X Light. If the fish are holding deep and won't come up, you want a yo-yo iron instead.
| Model | Weight | Body L × W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr (this jig) | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" × 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy | 6.4 oz | 6" × 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width is measured at the belly, the jig’s widest point. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weights and dimensions vary slightly between units.
Note the pairing: the 7X Jr and the 7X Jr Heavy share the same 5 3/8" body. Same profile, 2.1 oz versus 4.8 oz. One stays on top, one drops. If you like how the Jr shape looks in the water, the Heavy is the deep-water version of it.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Salas 7X Jr |
| Weight | 2.1 oz |
| Body length | 5 3/8" |
| Width at belly | 1" |
| Style | Surface iron (light) |
| Hook | Typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook |
| Construction | Hand-cast, hand-painted |
| Quantity | Sold individually (1 jig) |
| Origin | Made in Southern California, USA |
Because each jig is hand-made, weight and dimensions vary slightly unit to unit.
Picking a color
Match the bait first, then adjust for light and water clarity.
| Conditions | Start here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Green or off-color water, kelp beds | Green Sardine, Green Black | The workhorse calico colors when water has a green tint |
| Bright sun, flat calm, clean water | Mint, Mint Sardine | The traditional SoCal kelp-line answer on a glassy morning |
| Sardines and small bait on top | Blue and White, Mint Sardine | Baitfish tones that read natural in clear water |
| Low light, overcast, dirty water | Scrambled Egg, Green Black | Higher contrast so the jig stays visible |
Color availability changes constantly. Check the color menu above this description for what we can ship right now.
How to fish it
Cast it, let it settle for a beat so it lands flat, then wind slow and steady with the rod tip low. You are looking for a wide, rolling side-to-side kick. If the jig is spinning or tracking flat, you are winding too fast — slow down until you feel it load the rod tip.
Because it is light, the Jr sinks slowly. That is an advantage over shallow kelp and boiler rock where a heavier iron would drop into the stringers and hang up. Let it sink longer when fish are showing below the surface, and keep it high and moving when calico are up in the canopy.
Recommended gear
- Rod: 7–8 ft moderate-action rod — you do not need a full-size iron stick to throw 2.1 oz
- Reel: Conventional in the 100–200 class, or a matched spinning reel
- Line: 20–40 lb mono, or braid with a mono top shot for stretch
- Leader: 20–30 lb fluorocarbon in clear water; heavier if you are pulling calico out of heavy kelp
Pro tips from the shop
- This is the jig you reach for after the full-size iron gets refused. Same spot, same cast, smaller profile — that switch alone restarts a lot of dead bites.
- Slow down. Light irons are easier to over-wind than heavy ones because you feel less resistance.
- Fish it over the kelp canopy, not through it. The slow sink is what lets you keep it above the stringers.
- Do not fight the wind with it. If you are struggling to reach fish, that is the 7X Light’s job.
Common mistakes
- Buying it for distance. At 2.1 oz this is the shortest-casting iron in the Salas line. Buy it for the profile, not the range.
- Throwing it on a heavy iron stick. A rod built for 6–8 oz will not load with 2.1 oz. Match the rod to the jig.
- Winding too fast. Kills the kick and turns the jig into a spinning tube.
- Straight braid to the jig. No stretch means pulled hooks. Run a mono top shot.
- Packing it away wet. Rinse in fresh water and dry it fully before it goes back in the bag.
Frequently asked questions
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. Hook configuration can vary across the Salas range — where a specific option ships with a single hook, that is stated in the option name. Lighter. Much lighter. The 7X Jr is 2.1 oz and 5 3/8"; the 7X Light is 3.5 oz and 6 3/8". The Jr is the smallest, lightest iron Salas makes. When fish are keyed on small bait, when the water is flat and clear, when you are fishing light line, or when a full-size iron has already been refused. Stay with the 7X Light when you need casting distance or you are fighting wind. Same 5 3/8" body, very different weight. The Jr is 2.1 oz and fishes on the surface. The Jr Heavy is 4.8 oz and is a yo-yo iron you drop deep and crank back fast. Yes. The small profile and slow sink rate suit shallow kelp and boiler rock well, which is exactly where calico live. It is one of the more popular light irons for that fishing. No. At 2.1 oz it throws fine on a 7–8 ft moderate-action rod. A heavy full-size iron stick will actually cast it worse because the rod won’t load. Yes, and that is normal. These are hand-painted irons and the finish takes a beating from teeth, rails, and rocks. Chipped paint does not stop the jig from catching fish. No. Each one is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weight, dimensions, and paint detail vary slightly from jig to jig. That variation is part of the product, not a defect.What hook does it come with?
Is the 7X Jr heavier or lighter than the regular 7X?
When should I throw the Jr instead of the full-size 7X?
What is the difference between the 7X Jr and the 7X Jr Heavy?
Is this a good calico bass jig?
Do I need a dedicated surface iron rod?
Will the paint chip?
Are all the jigs identical?
Complete the setup
- Salas 7X Light — 3.5 oz full-size surface iron for distance and wind
- Salas O Pop — 3.2 oz with a concave face for surface commotion
- Salas 7X Jr Heavy — same body, 4.8 oz, for when fish hold deep
- Shop calico bass lures | Shop all surface irons | Shop all Salas
Not sure whether you want the Jr or the full-size 7X? Come see us at Tackle Express on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. We fish these on local boats and out of San Diego, and we would rather talk you into the right one than sell you the wrong one.
The PL-68 is the end of the line — 9.8 oz and 7 1/2 inches, the heaviest and by a clear margin the longest iron Salas makes. Nothing else in the lineup comes within an inch of it. This is the jig you bring when depth, current, or the size of the fish beats everything else in your bag.
Two things happen when you go this big. The obvious one is that it gets down and stays down: at 9.8 oz in a relatively narrow 1 1/8" body, the PL-68 cuts current and holds vertical where an 8.1 oz 7X Heavy starts sliding. The less obvious one is profile. That extra length is a genuinely bigger silhouette in the water, which matters when fish are eating full-size mackerel or larger forage — you are matching a bigger meal, not just fishing deeper.
This is a specialist. On a calm day over a local high spot it is more jig than the situation calls for, and you will wear yourself out cranking it. Bring it for the deep banks, the hard current, and the long-range trips where the alternative is not reaching the fish at all.
Every PL-68 is hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California, so each one comes out slightly different. Small variations in finish and weight are normal and expected.
Where the PL-68 shines
- Deep banks and offshore high spots where lighter irons never reach the zone
- Hard current that sweeps 6–8 oz jigs off vertical
- Long-range trips and extended offshore runs
- Deep-holding tuna that will chase a fast-cranked iron
- Trophy yellowtail on structure that demands heavy tackle
- Days when fish are on larger forage and a bigger profile matters
Which Salas iron should you throw?
The PL-68 is the heaviest and longest iron in the line. If you are not fighting depth or current, one of the lighter yo-yo irons will fish better simply because you can work it longer.
| Model | Weight | Body L × W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" × 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy | 6.4 oz | 6" × 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy (this jig) | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width is measured at the belly, the jig’s widest point. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weights and dimensions vary slightly between units.
PL-68 or 7X Heavy?
The 7X Heavy is 8.1 oz in a 6 3/8" body — not far behind on weight, but a meaningfully smaller profile. The PL-68 adds 1.7 oz and a full inch of length. If your problem is purely depth, the 7X Heavy handles most of it. If your problem is depth and current, or the fish are on big bait, the PL-68 is the honest answer. Most anglers buy the 7X Heavy first and add the PL-68 for long-range and extreme days.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Salas PL-68 Heavy (yo-yo) |
| Weight | 9.8 oz — heaviest in the Salas line |
| Body length | 7 1/2" — longest in the Salas line |
| Width at belly | 1 1/8" |
| Style | Yo-yo iron |
| Hook | Typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook; single tuna hook configurations are named in the option menu |
| Construction | Hand-cast, hand-painted |
| Quantity | Sold individually (1 jig) |
| Origin | Made in Southern California, USA |
Because each jig is hand-made, weight and dimensions vary slightly unit to unit.
Options, hooks, and pricing
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. Some options ship with a single hook instead — on the PL-68, those options say so in the option name. Pricing varies between configurations, so check the option menu above this description for what is current.
| Option | Finish | Hook |
|---|---|---|
| Blue White | Standard hand-painted | Heavy-duty treble |
| Blue Mackerel | Standard hand-painted | Heavy-duty treble |
| Scrambled Egg | Standard hand-painted | Heavy-duty treble |
| Rockfish | Standard hand-painted | Heavy-duty treble |
| Glow White | Glow finish, priced separately | Heavy-duty treble |
| Blue White w/ Single Tuna Hook | Blue White hand-painted | Single tuna hook, priced separately |
| Glow White w/ Single Tuna Hook | Glow finish | Single tuna hook, priced separately |
Anglers pick a single hook for easier unhooking, less damage to fish they intend to release, and fewer tangles in the rail on a crowded boat. A treble gives more points of contact on a short-striking fish. Neither is universally better — it comes down to how and where you fish.
Picking a color
The PL-68 usually fishes deep, and down there light is scarce. Contrast and glow matter more than fine detail.
| Conditions | Start here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Deepest drops, dirty water, low light | Glow White | Stays visible where painted finishes stop reading |
| General deep-water yellowtail | Scrambled Egg | The classic high-contrast yo-yo color |
| Sardines and mackerel on the meter | Blue White, Blue Mackerel | Baitfish tones matching what the fish are eating |
| Fishing hard bottom and rocky structure | Rockfish | Matches bottom-dwelling forage over reef and hard structure |
Color availability changes constantly. Check the option menu above this description for what we can ship right now.
How to fish it
Drop it straight down — to the bottom, or to the depth where you are marking fish. The moment it lands, wind as fast as you can turn the handle and keep winding all the way to the boat. Do not pump the rod. Speed triggers the bite, and most strikes come partway up rather than at the bottom.
At 9.8 oz you get down quickly even in current, which is the whole reason to fish it. The tradeoff is real: cranking this weight repeatedly is hard work, and most anglers get fewer drops per hour with it than with a 6X Heavy. Pick your moments — drop it when you are marking fish rather than searching blind.
Recommended gear
- Rod: Heavy fast-taper jig rod rated for 8–12 oz, with the backbone to turn fish off deep structure
- Reel: High-speed conventional, 6:1 or faster, with the capacity and cranking power for deep drops
- Line: 50–80 lb depending on depth, current, and how heavy the structure is
- Leader: 50–60 lb fluorocarbon; go heavier around rock and hard structure
Pro tips from the shop
- Do not fish it blind. Drop it on marks. At this weight you get a limited number of good drops before you are gassed.
- Undersized gear ruins it. A rod that will not handle 9.8 oz makes every drop a fight with your own tackle.
- Watch your line on the drop. At this weight fish frequently eat it falling, and the tell is line going slack early.
- Glow finishes benefit from a few seconds under a light before the drop.
- If you fish a crowded rail or release a lot of fish, the single tuna hook options are worth the difference.
Common mistakes
- Buying it as your first yo-yo iron. Start with a 4.8 or 6.4 oz jig. The PL-68 is a specialist for depth and current, not a general-purpose iron.
- Fishing it in moderate depth. It will catch fish, but a lighter iron works better and you will last longer.
- Winding too slowly. Yo-yo is a speed technique. If your arm is not tired, you are going too slow.
- Pumping the rod. Wind steadily with the rod low. Pumping creates slack and kills the action.
- Packing it away wet. Rinse in fresh water and dry it fully before it goes back in the bag.
Frequently asked questions
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. On the PL-68, the two options named “w/ Single Tuna Hook” come with a single tuna hook instead and are priced separately. Select the configuration you want by name in the option menu above. A single tuna hook is easier to remove, does less damage to fish you plan to release, and causes fewer tangles on a crowded rail. A treble offers more points of contact on a fish that strikes short. Pick based on how you fish rather than assuming one is better. Yes. At 9.8 oz it is the heaviest, and at 7 1/2" it is also the longest. The next step down is the 7X Heavy at 8.1 oz and 6 3/8". If your problem is depth alone, the 7X Heavy at 8.1 oz handles most of it. The PL-68 adds weight for hard current and a substantially longer profile for bigger forage. Most anglers own the 7X Heavy first and add the PL-68 for long-range and extreme conditions. The Glow White finish and the single tuna hook configurations are priced separately from the standard hand-painted colors. Check the option menu above for current pricing on each. A heavy fast-taper jig rod rated for 8–12 oz, a high-speed conventional reel at 6:1 or faster, and 50–80 lb line depending on depth and structure. Undersized gear makes this weight miserable to fish. No, but that is where it earns its keep. Any time depth or current beats your other irons — including local deep banks on a hard tide — the PL-68 is the tool. No. Each one is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weight, dimensions, and paint detail vary slightly from jig to jig. That variation is part of the product, not a defect.What hook does it come with?
Should I choose a single hook or a treble?
Is the PL-68 the heaviest Salas iron?
Should I get the PL-68 or the 7X Heavy?
Why are some options priced differently?
What rod and line does it need?
Is it only for long-range trips?
Are all the jigs identical?
Complete the setup
- Salas 7X Heavy — 8.1 oz, the step down for deep water without extreme current
- Salas 6X Heavy — 6.4 oz, the everyday local yo-yo iron
- Salas 7X Jr Heavy — 4.8 oz for moderate depth and lighter current
- Shop all yo-yo jigs | Shop tuna lures | Shop all Salas
Heading out on a long-range trip? Come see us at Tackle Express on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita before you go. We will help you sort out which weights and hook setups you actually need to pack rather than selling you one of everything.
Legendary West Coast Surface Iron Performance
The Salas Baby 5X Surface Iron Jigs are a proven fish-catching machine with decades of success on West Coast tuna, yellowtail, and dorado. Hand-crafted in Southern California with meticulous attention to detail, these legendary surface irons deliver the erratic swimming action and irresistible flash that trigger explosive strikes from aggressive pelagics. The Baby 5X size is perfectly balanced for long-distance casting and versatile enough to handle everything from schoolie yellowfin to trophy-class yellowtail.
Proven Design and Construction
- Hand-Crafted Quality: Each jig is individually made in the USA with attention to detail that ensures consistent performance
- Optimized Weight Distribution: Perfectly balanced for maximum casting distance and ideal swimming action
- Durable Chrome Finish: Classic chrome plating provides maximum flash and withstands repeated strikes and saltwater exposure
- Premium Treble Hook: Sharp, strong hook ensures solid hookups on aggressive strikes
- Baby 5X Size: Ideal weight and profile for a wide range of pelagic species and conditions
Deadly Surface Iron Action
The Baby 5X excels with the classic yo-yo retrieve that West Coast anglers have relied on for generations. Cast the iron out, let it sink briefly, then retrieve with a rhythmic rod-pumping action that creates an erratic swimming motion. The jig darts and flashes as it moves through the water column, mimicking a fleeing baitfish and triggering reaction strikes from tuna, yellowtail, dorado, and other pelagics. The chrome finish creates maximum flash that attracts fish from a distance, while the proven shape and weight distribution ensure the jig swims perfectly on every retrieve.
Versatile Applications
Whether you're fishing the kelp beds for yellowtail, working tuna boils offshore, targeting dorado around floating debris, casting to surface-feeding bonito and skipjack, or searching for roosterfish in Baja waters, the Baby 5X delivers consistent results. The size is perfect for matching smaller baitfish while still having enough weight for long casts to distant boils and feeding frenzies. The durable construction handles the punishment of hard-fighting pelagics day after day.
West Coast Tradition
Salas surface irons have been a staple in Southern California and Baja tackle boxes for over 50 years, earning their reputation through consistent performance on the water. The Baby 5X continues this tradition, combining time-tested design with quality craftsmanship that serious West Coast anglers trust. From party boats to private vessels, from San Diego to Cabo, the Baby 5X has proven itself on countless trophy fish and remains a go-to choice when pelagics are on the bite.
Experience the proven performance that generations of West Coast anglers have relied on. The Salas Baby 5X Surface Iron isn't just a jig—it's a piece of fishing history that continues to produce results season after season.
Catch more pelagics with Salas Baby 5X Surface Iron Jigs—where tradition meets proven performance.
Every other iron Salas makes is a variation on weight. The O Pop is the one that changes the shape. It has a concave, cupped face on the nose — and at 1 3/8 inches across the belly it is the widest body in the entire Salas lineup. Those two things together mean it does something none of the others do: it pushes water.
That matters when yellowtail and dorado are up on top and competing. A standard surface iron catches their eye with flash and a side-to-side kick. The O Pop adds noise and surface disturbance to that — a bulge and a splash that pulls fish from further away and triggers the competitive grab. When there are fish everywhere but nothing is committing to a plain iron, this is the jig that changes the answer.
At 3.2 oz it sits between the 7X Jr and the 7X Light. That is a comfortable weight on standard iron tackle, and the wide body means it casts a little differently than a narrow jig of similar weight — it catches more air, so expect slightly less distance than the 3.5 oz 7X Light in a headwind.
Every O Pop is hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California, so each one comes out slightly different. Small variations in finish and weight are normal and expected.
Where the O Pop shines
- Surface-feeding yellowtail busting bait on top
- Dorado around kelp paddies and floating structure
- Competitive, boiling fish where noise draws a crowd
- Choppy or textured water where a plain iron gets lost
- Bonito and barracuda in a feeding frenzy
- Days when fish are showing but refusing a standard surface iron
Which Salas iron should you throw?
The O Pop is the only Salas iron with a popping face. Everything else in the line is a weight and profile choice; this one is a different presentation entirely.
| Model | Weight | Body L × W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop (this jig) | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" × 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" × 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy | 6.4 oz | 6" × 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" × 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width is measured at the belly, the jig’s widest point. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weights and dimensions vary slightly between units.
O Pop or 7X Light?
They are close in weight — 3.2 oz against 3.5 oz — so this is not a weight decision. The 7X Light is the standard surface iron: narrower body, longer casts, classic side-to-side swim. The O Pop trades a little casting distance for surface commotion. Throw the 7X Light first; switch to the O Pop when fish are up and competing but not eating a plain iron.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Salas O Pop |
| Weight | 3.2 oz |
| Body length | 6 1/8" |
| Width at belly | 1 3/8" — the widest body in the Salas line |
| Face | Concave / cupped popping face |
| Style | Surface iron with popping action |
| Hook | Typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook |
| Construction | Hand-cast, hand-painted |
| Quantity | Sold individually (1 jig) |
| Origin | Made in Southern California, USA |
Because each jig is hand-made, weight and dimensions vary slightly unit to unit.
Picking a color
Because the O Pop works on surface disturbance as much as appearance, color matters a little less here than on a plain iron. Match the bait, then adjust for light.
| Conditions | Start here | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Mackerel on top | Blue Mackerel, Green Mackerel | Direct match when fish are pushing greenback or blues |
| Sardines, clean water | Blue White, Rainbow Sardine, Green Sardine | Baitfish tones that read natural in clear water |
| Bright sun, flat calm | Mint White | The traditional SoCal answer on a glassy morning |
| Green or off-color water, low light | Scrambled Egg | Higher contrast so the jig stays visible |
| Dorado around paddies | Dorado, Rainbow Sardine | Bright profiles for aggressive, competitive fish |
Color availability changes constantly. Check the color menu above this description for what we can ship right now.
How to fish it
You have two retrieves, and both work.
As a surface iron: cast it, let it settle, then wind slow and steady with the rod tip low. The cupped face makes it push a small bulge of water as it swims — more disturbance than a standard iron, same basic rhythm.
As a popper: keep the rod tip up and use short, sharp downward snaps between winds. Each snap makes the face grab water and throw a splash. Pause after the pop — fish frequently eat it while it sits still.
Start with the straight wind. If fish are boiling and ignoring it, switch to snaps. On a busy surface bite the noise is often the difference.
Recommended gear
- Rod: 7–8 ft moderate-action surface iron rod
- Reel: Conventional in the 100–300 class, or a matched spinning reel
- Line: 30–50 lb mono or a mono top shot — stretch matters on a surface strike
- Leader: 30–40 lb fluorocarbon in clear water; heavier around structure
Pro tips from the shop
- Pause after the pop. A lot of the bites come on the stall, not the snap.
- Carry one alongside a standard iron. The O Pop is a change-up, not usually the first jig on.
- The wide body catches air on the cast. Keep it low and flat into a headwind.
- Do not set the hook on the splash. Wait until you feel weight, then keep winding.
Common mistakes
- Fishing it deep. At 3.2 oz with a cupped face, this is a surface tool. It is not a yo-yo iron — if fish are holding down, switch to a yo-yo weight.
- Popping constantly. Too much noise pushes fish off. Mix pops with straight winding and pauses.
- Swinging at the boil. Surface strikes look dramatic and are easy to pull. Keep winding and let the rod load.
- Straight braid to the jig. No stretch means pulled hooks on a violent surface grab. Run a mono top shot.
- Packing it away wet. Rinse in fresh water and dry it fully before it goes back in the bag.
Frequently asked questions
Salas irons are typically rigged with a heavy-duty treble hook. Hook configuration can vary across the Salas range — where a specific option ships with a single hook, that is stated in the option name. The concave face. Every other Salas iron is a smooth-nosed jig that varies by weight and profile; the O Pop has a cupped face that pushes water and throws a splash. It is also the widest body Salas makes at 1 3/8". No. At 3.2 oz it does not have the weight to drop deep or hold vertical in current, and the cupped face works against a fast vertical retrieve. For yo-yo fishing, start with the 4.8 oz Jr Heavy weights or step up from there. They are almost the same weight, so pick by presentation rather than size. The 7X Light casts further and gives you the classic surface iron swim. The O Pop trades a little distance for surface noise. Most anglers carry both and switch when one stops producing. No. A standard 7–8 ft moderate-action surface iron rod handles 3.2 oz comfortably. The same setup you use for the 7X Light will throw this. Slightly less, especially into wind. The wide body and cupped face catch more air than a narrow jig of the same weight. Keep the cast low and flat when it is breezy. No. Each one is hand-cast and hand-painted, so weight, dimensions, and paint detail vary slightly from jig to jig. That variation is part of the product, not a defect.What hook does it come with?
What makes the O Pop different from the other Salas irons?
Can I fish it as a yo-yo iron?
O Pop or 7X Light?
Do I need a special rod for it?
Does it cast as far as a regular iron?
Are all the jigs identical?
Complete the setup
- Salas 7X Light — 3.5 oz standard surface iron for distance and classic action
- Salas 7X Jr — 2.1 oz for small bait and picky fish
- Salas 6X Heavy — 6.4 oz yo-yo iron for when fish hold deep
- Shop all surface irons | Shop yellowtail lures | Shop all Salas
Want to see the popping face in person? Come by Tackle Express on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita. Hold it next to a 7X Light and the difference is obvious — we would rather show you than sell you the wrong jig.
RESOURCE HUB
Surface Iron for Beginners
Why the Salas 7X is a strong first pick.
Iron Fishing Headquarters
Surface irons, yo-yo irons, jig sticks, reels.
Tackle Express Videos
Gear breakdowns, reviews, and how-to guides.
Yellowtail Collection
Tips and tricks to catch more and bigger yellows.
COMPLETE YOUR SETUP
SALAS FAQ
The Salas 7X Light is a strong first choice for anglers learning to fish surface iron. It casts well, has a proven swimming action, and works for yellowtail, bonito, barracuda, tuna, and other West Coast gamefish.
A surface iron is usually cast and retrieved near the surface to imitate a fleeing baitfish. A yo-yo iron is heavier, dropped deeper, and retrieved quickly back through the water column. Surface irons are best when fish are up and chasing bait. Yo-yo irons are best when fish are deeper or holding around structure.
Fish a yo-yo iron when yellowtail or other gamefish are marked deeper, when current is strong, when fish are holding near structure, or when they are not reacting to surface presentations. Drop the jig to the target depth, then wind fast and steady.
Salas lures are commonly used for yellowtail, tuna, bonito, barracuda, calico bass, dorado, and white seabass. They are especially popular with Southern California and Baja anglers fishing sportboats, private boats, islands, kelp lines, banks, and offshore structure.
For yellowtail on the surface, the Salas 7X Light is a classic choice. For deeper yellowtail, the Salas 6X Heavy is a reliable yo-yo iron. In heavy current or deeper water, use a heavier model like the Salas 7X Heavy or PL-68.
Popular starting colors include blue/white, mint, sardine, scrambled egg, and glow/white. Natural colors are great when fish are keyed in on bait, while brighter colors can help in low light, dirty water, or aggressive bites.
You do not need a complicated setup, but matching the rod, reel, and line to the lure matters. Surface irons work best with rods that cast well and allow the jig to swim. Yo-yo irons work best with stronger rods, fast reels, and line that can handle hard-pulling fish near structure.
Both can work. Treble hooks can help pin fish that slash at the jig, while single hooks can be easier to manage and may hold better on larger fish. The best choice depends on the target species, local rules, landing style, and personal preference.
Tackle Express is an angler-run tackle shop that fishes and understands West Coast saltwater gear. We stock proven Salas models, help anglers choose the right jig for the situation, and ship fast so your tackle gets to you before the next trip.
SHOP BY SPECIES
CA Halibut
CA Yellowtail
Tuna
White Seabass
Trout