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When the Bite Gets Picky β Fish the Iron They Won't Ignore
The Tady 45 Surface Iron is the compact, finesse-scaled surface iron Southern California anglers reach for when fish are keyed in on sardines and small mackerel and bigger jigs get refused. Scaled down from Tady's legendary shape, the 45 pairs a lighter surface weight with the same proven action β matching smaller baitfish and drawing strikes from yellowtail, tuna, and calico bass that won't commit to a standard-size iron.
The Tady Shape, Built for Finesse
Tady has built legendary surface irons in Southern California for generations, and the 45 is the platform scaled down on purpose β not a smaller mold of convenience, but a dedicated finesse tool. It shares the same proven swimming action as the larger Tady 4/0 Sr. Light Surface Iron, just in a lighter, more compact package for calm water and selective fish. When conditions call for more casting weight or a bigger profile in wind and current, size up to the 4/0 Sr.; when fish are picky and bait is small, the 45 is the one in your hand.
Why a Standard-Size Iron Comes Up Short
A full-size surface iron is easy for pressured fish to inspect and refuse, especially in clear, calm water when bait is small. The Tady 45's compact profile and lighter surface weight create a more subtle presentation that matches what fish are actually eating β sardines and small mackerel, not the larger profile a bigger iron throws. It's also easier to cast all day on an 8'-9' jig stick, which matters when you're covering water on a long paddy or bird-working scenario.
How to Fish It
Cast the iron past feeding fish or working birds, let it sink briefly, then retrieve with a straight, steady wind β no rod-sweeping required, the shape creates its own erratic kick on its own. Pair it with 30-40 lb monofilament for a traditional surface-iron setup, or fish braid with a 30-40 lb mono or fluorocarbon leader like Seaguar Abrazx if you want extra abrasion resistance. Adjust your retrieve speed until the iron settles into a strong, consistent side-to-side swim β every iron swims a little differently out of the box.
The Right Pick If...
- Fish are feeding on sardines, small mackerel, or other compact baitfish
- You're fishing calm conditions where a bigger iron gets refused
- You want a finesse iron for picky yellowtail, tuna, or calico bass
- You're casting an 8'-9' jig stick and want a size that's easy to work all day
- You already fish the larger Tady 4/0 Sr. and want the compact counterpart for calm-water days
Best Fishing Techniques
- Surface iron retrieve: Straight, steady wind β the shape produces the swimming action, no need to work the rod tip
- Subsurface/yo-yo: Let it sink to intercept fish holding deeper, then work it back to the surface
- Bird-working technique: Cast past diving birds and retrieve through the middle of the bait ball
Best Conditions
- Calm to moderate surface conditions where fish can inspect the bait closely
- Clear water when fish are keyed in on small, natural-sized bait
- Situations where larger irons have already been refused
Best For
- Species: Yellowtail, bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, bonito, barracuda, calico bass, white seabass
- Techniques: Surface iron retrieve, constant/fast retrieve, yo-yo
- Gear: 8'-9' jig stick, conventional casting reel, 30-40 lb monofilament or 30-40 lb mono/fluoro leader over braid
Key Features
- Compact, scaled-down Tady profile for finesse presentations
- Approx. 2.7-3.2 oz β light enough for calm conditions, heavy enough for long casts
- Durable chrome finish withstands saltwater punishment
- Single in-line hook sized to the compact profile
- Available in 36 proven colors, from natural baitfish patterns to high-visibility holographics
Specifications
| Brand | Tady Lures |
| Model | Tady 45 |
| Type | Surface iron jig |
| Weight | Approx. 2.7-3.2 oz |
| Length | Total w/hook 8" - Lure Only 6.25" |
| Hook Configuration | Single in-line hook |
| Target Species | Yellowtail, bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, white seabass, barracuda |
| Best Technique | Constant retrieve, fast retrieve, surface iron |
| Region | Southern California, Northern Baja, offshore Pacific |
Models & Specs
| Color | SKU | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mint | TDY45-MINT | $15.29 |
| Mint Brown Crackle | TDY45-MNTBRNCRKL | $17.99 |
| Green Silver Crackle | TDY45-GRNSLVCRKL | $17.99 |
| Green Copper Crackle | TDY45-GRNCPRCRKL | $17.99 |
| Mint Silver Crackle | TDY45-MNTSLVCRKL | $17.99 |
| Egg Sardine Crackle | TDY45-EGGSRDNCRKL | $17.99 |
| Blue Silver Crackle | TDY45-BLUSLVCRKL | $17.99 |
| Scrambled Egg | TDY45-SCRMEGG | $17.99 |
| Blue White | TDY45-BLUWHT | $17.99 |
| Eel | TDY45-EEL | $17.99 |
| Dorado | TDY45-DRDO | $15.29 |
| Mint White | TDY45-MNTWHT | $15.29 |
| Green Sardine | TDY45-GRNSRDN | $17.99 |
| Purple Olive | TDY45-PRPLOLV | $17.99 |
| Mahi | TDY45-MAHI | $17.99 |
| Green Yellow | TDY45-GRNYLW | $15.29 |
| Black White | TDY45-BLKWHT | $17.99 |
| Mint Silver | TDY45-MNTSLVR | $15.29 |
| Wounded Soldier | TDY45-WNDSOLDR | $17.99 |
| Chartreuse Silver | TDY45-CHRTSLV | $15.29 |
| Dorado Mac | TDY45-DRDMC | $15.29 |
| Copper Blue Sardine | TDY45-CPBLSRD | $15.29 |
| Blue Green Silver | TDY45-BLGRSLV | $15.29 |
| Green Yellow Mac | TDY45-GYM | $15.29 |
| Green Amber Black Tail | TDY45-GABT | $15.29 |
| Yellow Black Tail | TDY45-YBT | $15.29 |
| Blue White Silver Speckle | TDY-45-BLWHTSILV | $15.29 |
| Mint Silver Holographic | TDY45-MNTSLVHHOLO | $15.29 |
| Squid Photo Finish | TDY45-SQDPHTO | $16.19 |
| Black Green Silver Holo | TDY45-BLKGRNSLVHOLO | $15.29 |
| Black Blue Silver Holo | TDY45-BLKBLUSLVHOLO | $15.29 |
| Scram Holographic | TDY45-SCRMHOLO | $15.29 |
| Chrome | TDY45-CHRM | $17.99 |
| Chrome Blue Single Tuna Hook | TDY45-CHRMBLU-SINGLEHK | $17.99 |
| Chrome Blue | TDY45-CHRBLU | $17.99 |
| Mint White Glow Back | TDY45-MNTWHTGLOWBK | $17.99 |
Tackle Express Tips
- Start with Mint, Scrambled Egg, or Mint White for yellowtail: These are proven producers when fish are on sardines β start here before branching into specialty finishes.
- Round out your iron bag: Serious SoCal anglers carry more than one iron for different actions and light conditions β the Salas 7X Light Surface Iron and JRI-4 Surface Iron are both proven alternatives worth having alongside the Tady 45.
- Ask before assuming a color is gone for good: Some finishes sell through fast and get restocked in cycles β if the color you want shows unavailable, reach out and we'll let you know the next restock window.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Tady 45 weigh?
The Tady 45 weighs approximately 2.8oz - 3.2oz. Slight variation is normal with cast metal surface irons.
What line should I use?
For a traditional surface-iron setup, use 30β40 lb monofilament. You can also fish braid with a 30β40 lb mono or fluorocarbon leader, but mono is popular because its stretch helps keep hard-fighting fish pinned.
What fish does it catch?
The Tady 45 is a proven choice for yellowtail, bluefin and yellowfin tuna, bonito, barracuda, calico bass, and white seabassβespecially when fish are keyed in on sardines or small mackerel.
How fast should it be retrieved?
Use a steady medium-to-fast retrieve that makes the jig swim with a wide side-to-side kick without spinning. Every iron swims a little differently, so adjust your speed until the lure has a strong, consistent action.
Tady 45 vs. Tady 4/0 Sr.: which should I choose?
Choose the Tady 45 for a smaller, lighter presentation when fish are feeding on compact bait or acting picky. Choose the larger Tady 4/0 Sr. when you want a bigger profile, more casting weight, or extra presence in wind, current, and rougher water.
What are the best colors for yellowtail and tuna?
For yellowtail, proven choices include Mint White, Scrambled Egg, Green Yellow, and Dorado-style patterns. For tuna, start with baitfish colors such as Mint Silver, Blue White, Chrome Blue, and sardine patterns. Match the local forage and light conditions; bright or high-contrast colors can help in low light, while natural silver and blue patterns are excellent in clear water.
Why do some colors cost more than others?
Standard finishes run $15.29. Premium finishes that require extra processing β crackle patterns, chrome, and glow-back coatings β run $17.99, and specialty photo-finish patterns like Squid Photo Finish are priced individually. See the Models & Specs table above for the exact price of every color.
Precision-Engineered for High-Current Conditions
The Shimano Current Sniper Jigs are purpose-built to excel in challenging high-current environments where traditional jigs struggle to maintain bottom contact and proper action. Featuring Shimano's innovative streamlined design and optimized weight distribution, these specialized vertical jigs cut through current with minimal resistance while delivering the erratic action needed to trigger strikes from deep-dwelling predators in fast-moving water.
Hydrodynamic Design for Current Control
- Streamlined Profile: Aerodynamic body shape cuts through current with minimal resistance, allowing you to maintain bottom contact with less weight
- Optimized Weight Distribution: Precisely balanced for stable descent and controlled action even in strong current
- Compact Design: Reduced surface area minimizes current drag while maintaining fish-attracting profile
- Fast-Sinking Action: Gets to the strike zone quickly and stays there in challenging conditions
Premium Construction and Finish
- Durable Coating: High-quality finish withstands repeated strikes and contact with structure
- Holographic Patterns: Realistic baitfish colors and flash patterns trigger predatory instincts
- Heavy-Duty Assist Hooks: Premium hooks positioned for optimal hookup ratio on aggressive strikes
- Corrosion-Resistant Hardware: Saltwater-tough components handle harsh offshore environments
- Multiple Size Options: Range of weights to match current conditions and target depth
Built for High-Current Environments
Whether you're fishing deep-water wrecks with ripping current, working offshore structure in tidal flow, targeting rockfish on current-swept reefs, pursuing snapper and grouper on deep ledges with strong bottom current, or jigging for amberjack and yellowtail where current makes fishing difficult, the Current Sniper delivers the performance you need. The streamlined design lets you use lighter jigs than traditional designs, reducing fatigue while maintaining bottom contact and proper action.
Versatile Jigging Techniques
The Current Sniper excels with both speed jigging and slow-pitch techniques in current. For speed jigging, the streamlined profile allows rapid vertical movement with minimal current resistance. For slow-pitch applications, the optimized weight distribution creates an enticing flutter and fall even when current is pushing the jig. The compact design also makes this jig effective for drift fishing over structure, where maintaining bottom contact in current is critical for success.
Why Current-Fishing Specialists Choose Current Sniper
Professional captains and serious vertical jigging enthusiasts choose the Current Sniper because it solves the fundamental challenge of fishing in current: maintaining bottom contact and proper jig action when water is moving fast. The hydrodynamic design cuts through current efficiently, letting you fish lighter weights that are easier to work all day while still reaching and staying in the strike zone. The premium construction ensures reliable performance trip after trip, even in the most demanding offshore conditions.
Experience the difference that specialized design makes when fishing in current. The Shimano Current Sniper isn't just a vertical jigβit's a precision tool engineered to help you succeed when current makes fishing challenging.
Conquer high-current conditions with Shimano Current Sniper Jigsβwhere hydrodynamic design meets deadly effectiveness.
On a fixed jig head, the hook and the lead are one rigid piece. The bait goes where the weight goes, at the speed you're reeling, and on a slow retrieve it looks like exactly what it is β a piece of plastic being pulled through the water.
Short version: the Neck Breaker separates them. The hook hangs off the head on its own pivot, so the bait rocks, glides, and settles on its own while the head does the sinking. Two heads per pack. Six weights, 1/8 oz through 1 oz.
Why a Swing Head
That independence shows up in the two situations where fish get picky: on the drop, and on a dead-slow retrieve along the bottom. A fixed head falls nose-down in a straight line. A swing head lets the bait glide off to the side and settle, which is what a dying baitfish actually does.
The pivot also changes the hook angle. Instead of tracking nose-down locked to the lead, the hook rides up off the head β a better position for a fish that eats from behind and below.
Where It Earns Its Keep
- Slow-rolling swimbaits through kelp stringers and over boiler rock for calico bass.
- Bottom work inside harbors and bays for spotted bay bass, where the pause matters more than the retrieve.
- Dragging sand flats for halibut.
- Umbrella rig arms β see below. This is the standard head for an A-rig.
The Umbrella Rig Setup
Five baits tracking together at identical speed is the hardest presentation to make look alive. Every bait moving in lockstep reads as a lure, not a school. Swing heads give each bait its own motion inside that group, which is why they're the default choice on an A-rig.
The weighting rule is keel effect: your two heaviest heads go on the bottom two arms, lighter heads on the top three. Even weight across all five gives the rig nothing holding its orientation, so it rolls, spins, and twists your line.
How many packs a five-arm rig takes
| Setup | Bottom two arms | Top three arms | Packs to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard calico / 5" baits | 1/2 oz Γ 2 | 1/4 oz Γ 3 | 1 pack 1/2 oz 2 packs 1/4 oz |
| Harbor / bay, 3" baits | 1/2 oz Γ 2 | 1/4 oz Γ 3 | 1 pack 1/2 oz 2 packs 1/4 oz |
| Bigger presentation / 7" baits | 3/4 oz Γ 2 | 1/2 oz Γ 3 | 1 pack 3/4 oz 2 packs 1/2 oz |
| Deep water or current | 1 oz Γ 2 | 1/2 oz Γ 3 | 1 pack 1 oz 2 packs 1/2 oz |
Three packs covers a full rig every time β one pack of the heavy weight, two of the light. You'll finish with one spare light head, which is the one you'll want when a fish takes a head off in the rocks.
Our crew wrote a photo-by-photo guide covering the arm bend, keel weighting, bait sizing by location, and how to keep five arms of hooks out of every other rod in the rack.
Read the full umbrella rig setup guide βWeight Selection
| Weight | Use it for |
|---|---|
| 1/8 oz | Skinny water and shallow flats with no current β the slowest fall in the lineup. |
| 1/4 oz | Harbor and bay bottom work. Also the top three arms of a standard umbrella rig. |
| 3/8 oz | Shallow structure once there's wind or a little current on it. |
| 1/2 oz | The general-purpose calico weight. Bottom two arms of a standard umbrella rig. |
| 3/4 oz | Deeper structure, moving water, and bigger baits. |
| 1 oz | Deep water and heavy current. Bottom two arms on a deep-water A-rig. |
Pro Tips from the Tackle Express Crew
- Let it fall on a slack line. The swing head's advantage is the glide, and a tight line takes it away. Most bites on this head come on the drop.
- Slow down further than feels productive. A fixed head needs speed to look right. This one doesn't, and speed is what kills the independent action you paid for.
- Buy in pairs of weights, not pairs of colors. When a head goes in the rocks you want the same weight back on, not the same color. Head color matters far less than bait color.
- Match the head to the bait's body, not to the fish. A head too heavy for the plastic kills the tail action no matter what you're targeting.
Common Mistakes
- Fishing it like a fixed head. Steady fast retrieve, tight line on the fall β that's a regular jig head presentation and the swing does nothing for you.
- Buying five heads for a five-arm rig. They come two to a pack. Five arms takes three packs, not two and a half.
- Even weights across an umbrella rig. The number one cause of a rig that helicopters and corkscrews your line.
- Going too heavy for the depth. On the drop, a head that outruns the bait pulls the plastic straight down and eliminates the glide.
Specifications
free of the head
Red, Camo, Cosmos, White
free of the head
Camo, Cosmos, White, Glow
free of the head
Camo, Cosmos, White, Glow
Warbaits does not publish hook size, hook model, wire gauge, or head material per weight for the Neck Breaker. Call the shop and we'll pull one out of the drawer and measure it for the size you're considering.
What's Included
Two swing heads per pack, in the weight and color selected. A five-arm umbrella rig takes three packs β one of the heavy weight for the bottom two arms, two of the light weight for the top three. Swimbaits and the rig itself are sold separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many heads come in a pack?
Two.
How many packs do I need for a five-arm umbrella rig?
Three. One pack of the heavier weight for the bottom two arms, two packs of the lighter weight for the top three. You'll have one spare light head left over.
What's the difference between a swing head and a regular jig head?
On a swing head the hook pivots independently of the weight. The bait moves on its own instead of being locked to the lead, which matters most on the drop and on a slow retrieve.
What weight should I use for calico bass?
1/2 oz covers most of it. Drop to 1/4 oz inside harbors and calm water; go 3/4 or 1 oz for deeper structure or current.
What weights do I need for an umbrella rig?
Heavier on the bottom two arms, lighter on the top three. With 5" baits, 1/2 oz on the bottom pair and 1/4 oz on the other three. For deep water or current, 1 oz on the bottom and 1/2 oz on top.
Can I use it in freshwater?
Yes. It's built for saltwater but the same slow-roll and drop-and-pause presentations work on largemouth and smallmouth.
What swimbaits fit it?
Any soft paddle-tail or boot-tail swimbait. Match the head weight to the bait's body β a head too heavy for the plastic kills the tail action.
Does the head color matter?
Less than bait color, but it matters at close range in clear water. Raw and White disappear, Red and Hot Pink give the bait a visible strike point, and Camo and Cosmos are the low-visibility picks over structure.
Gear That Goes With It
- Kicker PK-Rig Umbrella Rig β the five-arm rig these heads mount to.
- Kicker Pickle Kick PK-5 β the standard 5" profile for 1/2 oz heads.
- Kicker Pickle Kick PK-3 β harbor and bay size for 1/4 oz heads.
- Kicker Booty Spin β blade-tail body on the same heads.
Buy It From People Who Fish It
We sell Southern California saltwater tackle from our shop on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita, and we fish these heads on the same water you do. Not sure what weight your bait wants, or how many packs your setup takes? Call us or come in β we'd rather work it out at the counter than have you find out you're a head short on the water.
When the yellowtail aren't on the surface β 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 β 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 1ΒΌ inches. That extra width gives it a broader flash profile on the retrieve β 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 β 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 β heavy enough to stay on the spot, light enough to fish all day. Its 1ΒΌ" 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 β when they're pinned to structure, holding on a hard-bottom bank, or sitting 80 feet down and refusing to move β 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: 40β200+ 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 Γ W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" Γ 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" Γ 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" Γ 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" Γ 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" Γ 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy (this jig) | 6.4 oz | 6" Γ 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" Γ 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" Γ 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
Width measured at the belly. Every Salas iron is hand-cast and hand-painted β 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 β middle weight of the Salas yo-yo lineup, holds vertical in real current
- 1ΒΌ" belly width β the widest of any Salas yo-yo iron, maximum flash on the retrieve
- 6" body length β compact enough for a fast retrieve, heavy enough to stay on the spot
- Hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California β 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" β 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 β 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 β 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 β check the option menu above for what's in stock now.
How to Fish the Yo-Yo
Drop it straight down β 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 β usually twisted line or an uneven retrieve.
Recommended gear:
- Rod: 7β8 ft fast-taper jig rod with real backbone for pulling fish off structure
- Reel: High-speed conventional, 6:1 or faster β retrieve speed is the technique
- Line: 40β65 lb depending on depth and structure
- Leader: 40β50 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 β 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 β 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 β 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" β 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 β 4.8 oz compact version for shallower water
- Salas 7X Jr Heavy β 4.8 oz, longer and slimmer profile
- Salas 7X Heavy β 8.1 oz for deeper banks and heavier current
- Salas PL-68 Heavy β 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 β 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 β 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 β stays up top through the retrieve instead of digging down
- 6 3/8" body with offset hips β produces a wide, slow side-to-side kick rather than a tight wobble
- Long-casting profile β reaches paddies and kelp lines you cannot get to with a bait
- Hand-cast and hand-painted in Southern California β each jig is individually finished
- Shares the 7X body shape with the 7X Heavy yo-yo iron β 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 Γ W | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7X Jr | 2.1 oz | 5 3/8" Γ 1" | Surface iron |
| O Pop | 3.2 oz | 6 1/8" Γ 1 3/8" | Surface iron / popper |
| 7X Light (this jig) | 3.5 oz | 6 3/8" Γ 1 1/8" | Surface iron |
| 6X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 4 5/8" Γ 1" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Jr Heavy | 4.8 oz | 5 3/8" Γ 1" | Yo-yo |
| 6X Heavy | 6.4 oz | 6" Γ 1 1/4" | Yo-yo |
| 7X Heavy | 8.1 oz | 6 3/8" Γ 1 1/8" | Yo-yo |
| PL-68 Heavy | 9.8 oz | 7 1/2" Γ 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 β 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: 8β9 ft moderate-action surface iron stick
- Reel: Conventional narrow-spool jig reel in the 200β300 class
- Line: 30β50 lb mono or a mono top shot β mono's stretch protects against pulled hooks on a head-shaking yellow
- Leader: 30β40 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 β 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. 30β50 lb mono, or braid with a mono top shot. The stretch matters β 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 β 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 β smaller 2.1 oz profile for picky fish and small bait
- Salas O Pop β 3.2 oz with a concave face for surface commotion
- Salas 7X Heavy Yo-Yo β same body, 8.1 oz, for when fish hold deep
- Salas 6X Heavy Yo-Yo β the classic deep yellowtail yo-yo iron
- Salas PL-68 Heavy Yo-Yo β 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.
The Salas 6X Jr Yo-Yo Jig is the shortest, stoutest iron Salas makes β 4.8 oz in a compact 4Β 5/8" profile. It's not a scaled-down version of the 6X; it's a different tool designed for a different situation. When baitfish are small and thick, when yellowtail are keyed on short, dense forage, or when you're fishing in current where a longer iron blows out of the strike zone before it can be worked properly, the 6X Jr is the right choice. It sinks fast, swims tight, and covers water efficiently at depths where the bite is happening.
Built for Short, Thick Forage
The 6X Jr's compact profile was designed to match smaller baitfish that longer irons can't accurately imitate. When yellowtail, tuna, or white seabass are eating small sardines, smelt, or squid and ignoring longer jigs, switching down to the 6X Jr gives you the size profile that matches the hatch. The heavy body also means it holds depth better in current than lightweight jigs of the same size, so you can work it at the right depth even when there's water movement pushing lighter iron off-track.
Hand-Cast in Southern California
Salas irons are hand-cast in California β not stamped, not CNC-machined offshore. Each jig is individually poured, which gives Salas irons their characteristic action variability and the reason experienced yo-yo anglers sort through packs to find the ones that swim best. The 6X Jr is available in the full Salas color lineup, including proven producers like Scrambled Egg, Mint, Wounded Soldier, and Dorado β plus chrome and holographic finishes for high-visibility conditions.
The Right Pick If...
- Baitfish on the meter are small and dense and the standard 6X profile isn't matching the forage
- You're yo-yoing in current or wind and need a compact iron that sinks fast and stays in the zone
- You want to fish a shorter stroke β the 6X Jr responds well to a quick, aggressive yo-yo retrieve without blowing out
- You're targeting calico bass or shallow-water yellowtail where a shorter iron is easier to work close to structure
- You need to step down from the standard 6X when fish are short-striking or bumping without committing
Best Fishing Techniques
- Yo-yo retrieve β let it sink to depth, then crank fast and drop; the compact body creates a tight, erratic action on the drop
- Iron jigging near structure β compact profile works tight to kelp edges and rocky bottom without fouling as easily as longer irons
- Surface iron β the 6X Jr can be cast and worked on or near the surface when fish are up and feeding on small bait
- Vertical jigging β drop straight down and work with short, sharp lifts when fish are stacked tight on the meter
Best Conditions
- Spots with current where longer irons blow out of the zone
- Small bait conditions β sardines, smelt, squid, or thin anchovies
- Shallow to mid-depth structure: 40β120 ft
- Kelp paddies, nearshore islands, and inshore reefs
Best For
- Yellowtail β especially on small bait or in current
- White seabass β when they're keyed on small forage
- Calico bass β near structure where short iron is more practical
- Bluefin and yellowfin tuna β on small bait conditions
Key Features
- Weight: 4.8 oz
- Length: 4Β 5/8"
- Hand-cast in Southern California
- 18 color options including sardine patterns, chrome, holographic finishes, and proven local producers
- Compact yo-yo profile β fast sinking, tight action on the drop
- Rigged with quality split ring; add your preferred hook (single Siwash or assist recommended)
Color Guide
| Color | SKU | Best Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Green Sardine | SLS060 | Clear water, sardine forage |
| Scrambled Egg | SLS061 | All-around producer; low light and overcast |
| Blue White | SLS062 | Clear water, anchovy forage |
| Red White | SLS063 | Squid conditions; sunrise/sunset |
| Tumbled Dorado | SLS064 | Mixed bait, offshore color |
| Mint | SLS065 | Clear water; bright sun |
| Blue Sardine | SLS066 | Blue-water sardine forage |
| Green Yellow | SLS067 | Kelp edge; mixed bait |
| Wounded Soldier | SLS068 | Proven all-around producer |
| Mint Sardine | SLS069 | Clear water; sardine forage |
| Red Crab | SLS071 | Crab spawn; low light |
| Mint White | SLS072 | Bright conditions; clear water |
| Baby Poop | SLS070 | Dirty water; low visibility |
| Blue Green Rainbow Sardine | SLS073 | Blue water; mixed forage |
| Dorado | SLS074 | Offshore; mahi conditions |
| Egg Sardine | S6XES | Low light; overcast |
| Chrome | SALAS-6XJR-CHRME | High visibility; bright sun; clear water |
| Chrome Blue Holo Back | SALAS-6XJR-CHRMEBLUBK | Blue water; high sun; sardine forage |
Tackle Express Tips
- Rig the 6X Jr with an Owner Stinger Siwash or similar single hook on the tail split ring β single hooks improve hookup rate on the yo-yo and reduce twist compared to trebles. Size 4/0β5/0 works for most conditions.
- When yo-yoing in current, let the jig fully settle to depth before starting your retrieve. The 6X Jr sinks fast β count it down and let it get to the fish rather than starting the retrieve mid-water column where nothing is holding.
- Keep 2β3 colors with you: a natural sardine or anchovy pattern for clear days, Scrambled Egg or Wounded Soldier for low light or overcast, and chrome or Mint for high sun and visibility conditions. The right color at the right time consistently outperforms working one color all day.
FAQ
What's the difference between the 6X Jr and the standard 6X Heavy?
The 6X Jr is shorter and lighter (4.8 oz, 4Β 5/8") than the 6X Heavy (6.4 oz, 5Β 1/4"). The Jr is designed for smaller bait conditions and situations where a compact profile matches the forage better. The standard 6X sinks deeper and covers more water on a longer retrieve. Use the Jr when bait is small or you need to fish a shorter, tighter action; use the 6X when you need more weight or a longer profile.
Does the 6X Jr come with a hook?
Salas irons ship with a split ring but no hook installed β this lets you rig your preferred hook style and size. Most local anglers use a single Siwash hook (Owner Stinger Siwash in 4/0 or 5/0 is a common choice) or a short assist hook for yo-yo applications.
Which colors produce best for yellowtail?
Scrambled Egg, Wounded Soldier, and Mint are consistent year-round producers. Green Sardine and Blue Sardine work well when fish are keyed on sardines. Chrome and Chrome Blue Holo Back are strong picks on high-sun, clear-water days when flash draws strikes from distance.
Shop More Salas Irons
- Salas 7X Jr Heavy β same compact concept, longer and slightly heavier
- Salas 6X Heavy β 6.4 oz when you need more depth and current penetration
- Salas 7X Heavy β 8.1 oz for deep banks and heavy structure
- Salas PL-68 Heavy β 9.8 oz, the heaviest iron in the Salas line
Premium Swimbait Heads for Realistic Swimming Action
The Warbaits Swimbait Heads deliver premium swimbait performance designed for serious bass anglers who demand realistic swimming action with soft plastic swimbaits. Built with quality construction and optimized swimbait head design, these jig heads provide exceptional natural action, balanced swimming, and proven effectiveness for targeting bass with paddle tail and boot tail swimbaits. The Swimbait Heads represent Warbaits' commitment to creating quality swimbait jig heads for bass fishing.
Advanced Swimbait Head Design
- Optimized Head Shape: Hydrodynamic design provides natural realistic swimming action
- Balanced Construction: Weight distribution ensures proper swimming orientation
- Quality Hook: Sharp premium hook positioned for optimal hooksets
- Versatile Design: Works with various paddle tail and boot tail swimbaits
- Multiple Weights: Available in various weights for different depths and conditions
Premium Construction Features
- Durable Construction: Quality materials withstand repeated use and big bass
- Sharp Hook: Premium hook provides reliable hooksets on strikes
- Balanced Design: Optimized weight distribution for natural swimming action
- Quality Finish: Durable finish ensures long-lasting performance
- Proven Design: Time-tested swimbait head configuration triggers strikes
Swimbait Bass Fishing Applications
The Warbaits Swimbait Heads excel in swimbait bass fishing applications. Perfect for fishing paddle tail swimbaits around structure, working boot tail swimbaits in open water, targeting bass at various depths, slow rolling around points and ledges, or any situation where realistic swimming presentations are critical. The optimized head shape provides natural swimming action that mimics baitfish while the balanced construction ensures proper orientation for maximum effectiveness.
Key Features
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Optimized Head Shape | Realistic swimming action |
| Balanced Construction | Proper swimming orientation |
| Quality Hook | Optimal hooksets, reliable performance |
| Versatile Design | Works with various swimbaits |
| Multiple Weights | Various depths and conditions |
Warbaits Quality
Warbaits has been creating quality fishing lures for serious bass anglers, and the Swimbait Heads continue this tradition with optimized swimbait head design and premium construction. Every jig head is manufactured to exacting standards to ensure consistent performance. From weekend anglers to serious swimbait specialists, the Warbaits Swimbait Heads deliver the realistic swimming action and balanced performance that bass anglers demand.
Experience the premium swimbait head performance that serious bass anglers trust. The Warbaits Swimbait Heads aren't just jig headsβthey're precision tools built for swimbait fishing success.
Catch more bass with realistic swimming action using Warbaits Swimbait Headsβwhere optimized design meets natural performance.
Heavy Deep-Water Power for Trophy-Class Yellowtail and Tuna
The Tady Lure Yo Yo 4/0 Iron is the heavy, senior-size iron Southern California and Baja anglers reach for when fish are holding deep and won't come up. Hand-crafted in the USA, this 5.9 oz jig is built to sink fast, cut through current, and deliver the erratic, high-speed yo-yo action that triggers reaction strikes from trophy yellowtail, tuna, white seabass, and other pelagics stacked on deep structure.
Premium Design and Construction
- Hand-Crafted in USA: Each jig is individually made with quality control that ensures consistent performance
- Heavy Yo-Yo Weight (5.9 oz): Gets down to deep-feeding fish fast and holds its action even in strong current
- Senior 4/0 Profile: Larger body matches bigger baitfish like mackerel and sardines and appeals to trophy-class predators
- Proven Tady Shape: The same legendary profile that's produced countless trophy fish for generations of West Coast anglers
- Durable Chrome and Painted Finishes: Maximum flash that withstands deep-water punishment, available in 20+ proven colors
- Premium Treble Hook: Heavy-duty hook handles aggressive strikes from big deep-water predators
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tady Lures |
| Model | Tady 4/0 (Heavy) |
| Weight | Approx. 5.9 oz |
| Length | 5.75" |
| Hook Configuration | Single treble hook (single-hook Glow White version available) |
| Target Species | Yellowtail, tuna, white seabass, grouper |
| Best Technique | Yo-yo retrieve (drop 100β150 ft., retrieve fast) |
| Region | Southern California, Northern & Baja Mexico, offshore Pacific |
20+ colors available β pick yours from the swatches above the Add to Cart button.
Deep-Water Yo-Yo Technique
The 4/0 excels with the classic deep-water yo-yo retrieve. Drop it to the desired depth β or straight to the bottom β then retrieve with a quick, steady winding pace that gives the jig its signature erratic swimming motion. The heavy weight punches through current and keeps the action tight even 150 feet down, and the larger profile creates more visual presence for fish keyed in on bigger bait. For a full breakdown of retrieve speed, rod angle, and hookset timing, see our Complete Iron Guide.
Pair It Like the Regulars Do
Ask any longtime SoCal iron fisherman and you'll hear the same combo: 45 on top, 4/0 on bottom. Run the lighter Tady 45 Surface Iron for shallow, surface-feeding fish, and switch to the 4/0 the moment fish drop deep or stop showing on top. Keeping both in the bag covers you from the kelp line to 150 feet down. Looking for something in between? The mid-range Tady A2 Iron and all-around Tady AA Iron fill the gap, and the Tady TLC Iron is purpose-built for trophy white seabass on deep structure.
How to Rig It
Pair the 4/0 with a stout jigging setup capable of handling both the drop and a hard hookset at depth β the Daiwa Outrage XV Slow Pitch Jigging Rod is a proven match. Run 40β60 lb Seaguar Blue Label Fluorocarbon Leader to stand up to abrasion on deep structure, and keep your whole iron collection organized and tangle-free with a Mustad Jig Pouch.
Built for Trophy Deep-Water Fish
Whether you're working deep-water yellowtail on offshore banks and high spots, chasing tuna holding below the surface, fishing seamounts and current-swept structure, or dropping deep on a Baja trip when fish won't come up, the 4/0 delivers. It's a staple for the Cedros Island run and any trip where Channel Islands white seabass and yellowtail are holding deep. New to iron fishing? Our Summer Fishing Setup Guide covers the reels and rods that pair best with heavy irons like this one.
Tady Heritage and Quality
Tady has hand-crafted legendary irons in Southern California for generations, and the 4/0 Yo Yo is the heavy-water workhorse serious trophy hunters trust. From party boats to private vessels, from San Diego to Baja, it's proven itself on countless fish and remains a go-to for anyone serious about deep-water yo-yo fishing.
FAQ
How much does the Tady 4/0 Yo Yo Iron weigh?
Approximately 5.9 oz, with a 5.75" length β the heavy end of the Tady lineup, built specifically for getting down fast in deep water.
What's the difference between the 4/0 and the Tady 45?
The 4/0 is heavier and larger, built for dropping deep and yo-yo retrieves. The lighter Tady 45 is built for surface presentations when fish are feeding on top. Many anglers carry both and switch based on where the fish are holding.
What line and leader should I use?
Most anglers run 40β60 lb fluorocarbon or mono leader over 50β65 lb braid, sized up from typical surface iron leader to handle abrasion from deep structure and bigger fish.
What's the best retrieve speed?
Fast and steady. Drop to depth, engage the reel, and wind quickly and consistently β the heavy weight and profile create the erratic kick on their own. Slowing down or pausing mid-retrieve is the most common reason anglers miss strikes on the yo-yo.
What colors work best?
Mint Silver, Blue White, and Chrome are proven all-around choices. Scrambled Egg and Mint White produce well when fish are keyed in on sardines, and Glow White is a go-to in low light or for white seabass fishing deep structure at night.
Get down fast and connect with trophy fish β the Tady Lure Yo Yo 4/0 Iron is built for the deep water others can't reach.
The Submission Fishing Jigs SumoΒ is so versatile that when it's tied on the eye side, the heavy belly of the jig will slide through the water column allowing you to fish underneath docks, pilings, and other hard to reach places.Β When tied from the belly side, it will have a more traditional vertical fall. With a wobbling, leaf-like action, the squat, round-belly shape of this jig falls into the depths of the ocean to entice saltwater bay bass as well as many others. The Sumo's compact design also allows you to use a heavier jig in a smaller presentation for precision fishing. Perfect for fishing shallow docks or 60 ft of kelp beds (the 40 and 60g are perfect for kelp) with a heavy tide swing.Β
Submission Jigs The Sumo comes in 20g, 40g, and 60g.
All jigs feature BKK assist hooks with UV tassels and heavy duty split rings.
Submission Fishing Jigs Mercenary is effective in many conditions.Β Β Whether you're casting out on a boat for pelagic, vertical fishing for bass off the docks, or casting from shore, the Slow Death Mercenary jig can be very productive. This jig's unique shape produces a fluttering, twirling action on the fall and an erratic swimming action on the retrieve. It can be fished vertically or cast and retrieved. Itβs the ultimate dying baitfish imitator, and greedy fish wonβt be able to resist.
Submission Jigs MercenaryΒ comes in 20g, 40g, and 60g.
All jigs feature BKK assist hooks with UV tassels and heavy duty split rings.
Jig was renamed to Mercenary in March of 2024.
The Salas 7X Heavy puts 8.1 oz into the same 6Β 3/8" body as the 7X Light β the same profile, nearly double the weight. That density is the point. When you need to punch through current, get to depth faster than lighter iron allows, or keep contact with the bottom in a strong surge, the 7X Heavy gets there and stays there. It's the go-to yo-yo iron for deep banks, heavy structure, and the conditions where lighter iron gets pushed out of the bite zone before it can be worked properly.
More Weight, Same Profile
The 7X Heavy shares its body geometry with the 7X Light, which means the swimming action and profile are identical β only the sink rate and depth capability change. Fish that are dialed into the 7X profile on surface iron will respond to the same shape on the yo-yo at depth. This matters on days when fish move off the surface into the water column: you can stay on the same lure shape without switching to a completely different iron. The heavier body also means less blow-out in current and a faster, more direct drop to depth.
Hand-Cast in Southern California
Like all Salas irons, the 7X Heavy is hand-cast in California β individually poured, not stamped or machined. The result is the subtle action variability that Salas irons are known for, and the reason experienced anglers sort through packs to find the swimmers. Available in 6 proven colors covering the full range of conditions from clear-water sardine imitation to mackerel and low-light patterns.
The Right Pick If...
- You're fishing deep banks (100β200+ ft) where lighter iron takes too long to reach the strike zone
- There's current or surge that pushes 4β6 oz irons off-track before they can be worked properly
- Fish are holding tight to structure at depth and you need the iron to sink fast and stay vertical
- You want the 7X profile for yo-yo work while the 7X Light covers your surface iron setup
- You're targeting large yellowtail, tuna, or amberjack in heavy water where a heavier iron drives hooksets better
Best Fishing Techniques
- Deep yo-yo β count it to depth, crank fast to mid-water, drop again; the heavy body drops fast and stays vertical in current
- Bottom yo-yo on structure β let it touch bottom and immediately crank; the heavy body tracks straight and triggers reaction strikes from fish holding tight to structure
- Heavy current drift fishing β drop on a drifting boat and work the iron as the boat moves; the weight keeps it fishing rather than blowing sideways
- Vertical jigging β short, sharp lifts when fish are stacked on the meter; the heavier body gives more controlled action on slow lifts
Best Conditions
- Deep structure: 80β200+ ft
- Strong current or surge conditions where lighter iron blows out
- Offshore banks and deep-water reefs
- Long-range trips where fish are holding deep or in heavy water
Best For
- Yellowtail β deep structure and heavy current
- Bluefin and yellowfin tuna β deep yo-yo on offshore banks
- Amberjack and large pelagics β heavy water and deep reefs
- White seabass β deep structure at depth where 4β5 oz iron won't reach
Key Features
- Weight: 8.1 oz
- Length: 6Β 3/8"
- Hand-cast in Southern California
- 6 color options covering sardine, mackerel, low-light, and natural patterns
- Same body as 7X Light β identical profile, different density
- Rigged with split ring; add your preferred single hook or assist
Color Guide
| Color | SKU | Best Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Scrambled Egg | SLS010 | All-around producer; overcast and low light |
| Mint | SLS011 | Clear water; bright sun |
| Mint Sardine | SLS012 | Clear water; sardine forage |
| Baby Poop | SLS-7xHVY-BBY | Dirty water; low visibility; mixed forage |
| Green Mackerel | SLS013 | Mackerel forage; kelp edge; green water |
| Yellow | SLS0015 | High visibility; deep water; off-color conditions |
Tackle Express Tips
- At 8.1 oz, the 7X Heavy pairs best with a stout conventional rod in the 40β80 lb range β a rod with too light a tip won't load properly on the yo-yo stroke and will fatigue your arm before the fish does. The Phenix Black Diamond Conventional or similar heavy conventional blank is the right match.
- Use 65β80 lb braid as your main line with a 40β60 lb fluorocarbon top shot when yo-yoing at depth β the braid cuts current and telegraphs the strike up from depth better than straight mono. Keep the top shot short (10β15 ft) so the connection clears your guides cleanly on the cast.
- Green Mackerel and Scrambled Egg are the two most consistent colors in deep-water conditions where light penetration is low. If fish are on the meter but not committing, try slowing your retrieve on the drop β let the iron flutter rather than fall straight and give reluctant fish more time to commit on the way down.
FAQ
What's the difference between the 7X Heavy and the 7X Light?
Same 6Β 3/8" body, different density. The 7X Light is 3.5 oz and designed for surface iron fishing where you want a slower sink and more time in the upper water column. The 7X Heavy is 8.1 oz and built for deep yo-yo work where you need the iron to reach depth quickly and stay vertical in current. Use the Light for topwater and near-surface; use the Heavy when fish are holding at depth or in heavy water.
How does the 7X Heavy compare to the 6X Heavy?
The 7X Heavy (8.1 oz, 6Β 3/8") is heavier and longer than the 6X Heavy (6.4 oz, 5Β 1/4"). The 7X profile is longer and slimmer, which gives it a different swimming action β more of a side-to-side flutter on the drop. The 6X is shorter and stouter, which creates a tighter, more compact action. Both are proven deep yo-yo irons; the choice comes down to body profile preference and target depth.
Does the 7X Heavy come with a hook?
Salas irons ship with a split ring but no hook. Most local anglers rig a single Siwash hook (Owner Stinger Siwash 5/0β6/0 is a common choice for the heavier iron) or a short assist hook for deep yo-yo applications.
Shop More Salas Irons
- Salas 7X Light β same 6Β 3/8" body at 3.5 oz, for surface fishing
- Salas 6X Heavy β 6.4 oz, the everyday local yo-yo iron
- Salas PL-68 Heavy β 9.8 oz, the heaviest iron in the line
- Salas 7X Jr Heavy β 4.8 oz for moderate depth and lighter current
A Japanese-designed slow-fall jigging lure built for the slow pitch and slow jigging techniques, the Daiwa Saltiga SK Jig produces a distinctive spin and flutter action on the fall that triggers reaction strikes from predatory gamefish throughout the water column. The asymmetric SK profile creates an erratic, unpredictable fall that mimics a wounded or dying baitfish β the moment when most strikes occur. Once the jig reaches the bottom or a targeted depth, a steady wind on the retrieve produces a kick and slap action through the water column that continues to trigger strikes on the way back up.
The slow-fall technique is most effective when the jig is allowed to flutter freely on the drop with minimal tension β the SK's spin and flutter does the work. Available in 8 weights from 60g to 300g to match current speed, depth, and target species, and 9 colors covering natural forage imitations and high-visibility glow patterns for deep water and low-light conditions.Β
Key Features
- Spin & Flutter Fall Action β Asymmetric SK profile produces a distinctive spin and flutter on the fall that mimics a wounded baitfish; most strikes occur during the fall when the jig is fluttering freely with minimal line tension.
- Kick & Slap Retrieve Action β Unique swimming action produces a kick and slap motion throughout the water column on the retrieve; continues to trigger strikes on the way back up after reaching the target depth.
- Japanese Slow-Fall Design β Engineered for slow pitch and slow jigging techniques; profile and weight distribution optimized for maximum fall time and erratic action at slow retrieve speeds.
- 8 Weights (60β300g) β Wide weight range covers shallow inshore to deep offshore applications; lighter weights (60β85g) for shallower water and lighter current, heavier weights (200β300g) for deep water and strong current.
- 9 Colors β Natural forage imitations (Sardine, Blue Pink, Orange Gold) and high-visibility glow patterns (Glow Dot, Glow Pink, Zebra Glow, Super Glow) for deep water and low-light conditions.
Product Specifications
Color Guide
- Sardine β Natural sardine imitation; the go-to natural pattern when sardines are the primary forage; effective in clear water for yellowtail, tuna, and pelagic species.
- Blue Pink β Blue/pink combination; natural baitfish profile with pink belly flash; effective for a wide range of offshore and inshore species in clear to lightly stained water.
- Orange Gold β Warm orange/gold attractor; effective in stained water and for species that key on orange-toned forage; good all-around color for calico bass and inshore species.
- Pink β Solid pink attractor; high-visibility color effective for yellowtail, tuna, and pelagic species; one of the most consistent colors for slow jigging in offshore applications.
- Glow Pink β Pink with glow finish; combines the effectiveness of pink with glow visibility for deeper water and low-light conditions where standard pink loses visibility.
- Glow Dot β Glow dot pattern; high-visibility glow accents on a natural base; effective in deep water where glow patterns attract fish from distance in low-light conditions.
- Zebra Glow β Zebra stripe pattern with glow finish; high-contrast pattern with glow visibility for deep water and low-light conditions; effective for a wide range of offshore species.
- Zebra Orange β Zebra stripe pattern with orange accents; high-contrast attractor pattern effective in stained water and for species that respond to orange-toned patterns.
- Super Glow β Maximum glow output; best for deep water (200β300g sizes) where ambient light is minimal; attracts fish from distance in deep offshore and low-light conditions. Available in 200g, 250g, and 300g only.
Weight Selection Guide
- 60β85g β Lighter weights for shallower water (under 150 ft), lighter current, and inshore applications. Best for calico bass, yellowtail in shallow kelp, and situations where a slower fall rate is desired.
- 110β170g β Mid-range weights for moderate depth (150β400 ft) and moderate current. Best for yellowtail, white seabass, and general offshore jigging where a balance of fall speed and action is needed.
- 200β300g β Heavier weights for deep water (400+ ft), strong current, and offshore applications. Best for deep-water yellowtail, tuna, and species requiring the jig to reach depth quickly in strong current. Super Glow available in these sizes only.
Best For
- Slow Pitch & Slow Jigging β SK profile and weight distribution purpose-built for slow pitch and slow jigging techniques; spin and flutter fall action does the work with minimal angler input on the drop.
- Yellowtail & Pelagic Species β Spin and flutter fall action triggers reaction strikes from yellowtail, tuna, and pelagic species throughout the water column; effective from shallow kelp to deep offshore structure.
- Deep Water & Low-Light β Glow color options (Glow Dot, Glow Pink, Zebra Glow, Super Glow) and heavy weights (200β300g) purpose-built for deep water and low-light conditions where glow patterns attract fish from distance.
- Calico Bass & Inshore β Lighter weights (60β85g) and natural colors (Sardine, Blue Pink) effective for calico bass around kelp and inshore structure on slow jigging presentations.
Custom-Crafted Deep-Water Performance
The JRI Custom Lures JRI-66 Yo-Yo Iron Jigs deliver hand-crafted quality and proven deep-water performance for serious vertical jigging. Built with meticulous attention to detail and premium components, these custom yo-yo irons provide the perfect combination of weight, action, and durability for targeting yellowtail, calico bass, white seabass, and other gamefish holding in deep water. The JRI-66 represents JRI Custom Lures' commitment to creating specialized tools for vertical jigging success.
Premium Design and Construction
- Hand-Crafted Quality: Each 100% brass jig is individually made with attention to detail that ensures consistent performance
- JRI-66 Profile: Proven shape and weight for effective yo-yo retrieve and vertical jigging
- Heavy Yo-Yo: Gets down to deep-feeding fish quickly and maintains proper action in current
- Premium Components: Quality hooks and hardware built to handle hard-fighting gamefish
- Durable Finish: High-quality plating provides maximum flash and withstands deep-water punishment
- Optimized Balance: Precisely weighted for ideal vertical presentation and yo-yo action
Deep-Water Yo-Yo Technique
The JRI-66 excels with the classic deep-water yo-yo retrieve. Drop the iron down to the desired depth or all the way to the bottom, then retrieve with a quick, steady winding pace that creates an erratic swimming motion. The proven weight and profile get down fast, cut through current, and maintain proper action even in deep water. The balanced design creates the darting, flashing action that triggers reaction strikes from yellowtail, calico bass, white seabass, and other gamefish holding deep.
Built for Deep-Water Success
Whether you're targeting deep-water yellowtail on offshore banks and high spots, working yo-yo iron for calico bass around kelp and rocks, fishing for white seabass on deep reefs, pursuing rockfish and lingcod on vertical structure, or dropping deep when fish won't come up, the JRI-66 delivers consistent results. The custom-crafted quality ensures reliable performance trip after trip, while the proven design produces strikes from deep-holding gamefish.
JRI Custom Lures Quality
JRI Custom Lures has built a reputation for hand-crafted quality and fish-catching performance among serious West Coast anglers. The JRI-66 Yo-Yo Iron continues this tradition, combining proven yo-yo design with meticulous craftsmanship that produces results on the water. From party boats to private vessels, JRI Custom Lures are trusted by anglers who demand quality and performance from their deep-water tackle.
Experience the custom-crafted quality that deep-water specialists trust. The JRI Custom Lures JRI-66 Yo-Yo Iron isn't just another jigβit's a hand-crafted tool built to help you catch more fish in deep water.
Catch deep-water fish with JRI-66 Yo-Yo Ironβwhere custom quality meets proven yo-yo performance.
Larger Profile for Bigger Pelagics
The JRI Custom Lures JRI-4 Surface Iron Jigs deliver hand-crafted quality in a larger profile for targeting bigger pelagics and matching larger baitfish. Built with meticulous attention to detail and premium components, these custom surface irons provide the extra size and weight needed for trophy fish, long-distance casting, and situations where a larger presentation triggers more strikes. The JRI-4 represents the step up to serious trophy hunting in the JRI surface iron lineup.
Premium Design and Construction
- Hand-Crafted Quality: Each jig is individually made with attention to detail that ensures consistent performance
- Larger JRI-4 Profile: Bigger size matches larger baitfish and appeals to trophy-class predators
- Increased Weight: Extra weight for better casting distance and working deeper in the water column
- Premium Components: Quality hooks and hardware built to handle trophy pelagics
- Durable Finish: High-quality plating provides maximum flash and withstands saltwater punishment
- Optimized for Distance: Balanced for long casts to distant boils and working birds
Classic Surface Iron Technique
The JRI-4 excels with the time-tested surface iron retrieve. Cast the iron to feeding fish or working birds, let it sink briefly, then retrieve with a rhythmic rod-pumping action that creates an erratic swimming motion. The larger profile creates more visual presence in the water, attracting fish from greater distances and triggering strikes from trophy-class pelagics that prefer bigger meals. The increased weight allows you to reach distant boils and work the jig deeper when needed.
Built for Trophy Pelagics
Whether you're targeting trophy yellowfin and bluefin tuna on offshore banks, working for big yellowtail in kelp beds, casting to trophy dorado around kelp paddies, pursuing wahoo in Baja waters, or any situation where a larger profile and extra casting distance are essential, the JRI-4 delivers the performance serious trophy hunters demand. The larger size is ideal when fish are feeding on bigger baitfish like mackerel, sardines, or flying fish.
JRI Custom Lures Quality
JRI Custom Lures has built a reputation for hand-crafted quality and fish-catching performance among serious West Coast anglers. The JRI-4 Surface Iron continues this tradition, combining larger trophy-focused design with meticulous craftsmanship that produces results on big fish. From party boats to private vessels, the JRI-4 is trusted by anglers who target trophy pelagics and need a larger presentation.
Experience the custom-crafted quality that trophy hunters trust. The JRI Custom Lures JRI-4 Surface Iron isn't just a bigger jigβit's a hand-crafted tool designed to help you target and land trophy-class pelagics.
Target trophy fish with JRI-4 Surface Ironβwhere larger profile meets custom quality.
A purpose-built saltwater casting jig engineered for maximum distance, precision, and durability, the Daiwa Zakana Jig combines an aerodynamic and hydrodynamic profile with a rear weight design that delivers exceptional casting distance even in smaller sizes. Once in the water, the Zakana's subtle, lifelike swimming action mimics a helpless baitfish drifting through the water column β the profile that triggers reaction strikes from yellowtail, calico bass, tuna, and other predatory saltwater species.
Versatile enough to be cast, jigged, or trolled, and available in 7 weights from 20g to 130g across 13 colors including Japanese forage imitations. From $7.99.
Key Features
- Rear Weight Design β Weight concentrated at the rear of the jig for maximum casting distance even in smaller sizes; rear weighting also produces a pronounced side-to-side kick on the retrieve that mimics a fleeing or injured baitfish.
- Wire-Through Construction β Internal wire runs through the full length of the jig body for maximum durability against violent strikes; wire-through design holds up to strikes that would damage or destroy standard screw-in hardware on conventional jigs.
- Horizontal Line Tie β Horizontal line tie orientation allows for a wider, more unrestricted swimming action than a standard vertical line tie; produces a more natural baitfish swimming motion on the retrieve.
- VMC 9626 Hooks β High-quality VMC 9626 hooks with heavy-duty split rings for maximum hook-up ratio and durability against the toughest saltwater predators.
- Aerodynamic & Hydrodynamic Profile β Streamlined body shape minimizes air resistance on the cast for longer, more accurate casts; hydrodynamic profile produces subtle, lifelike swimming action in the water with minimal angler input.
- Large Black Eyes β Realistic large black eyes add visual appeal and target focus for predatory species that key on the eye of baitfish when attacking.
- Cast, Jig & Troll Versatility β Profile and weight distribution effective for casting and retrieving, vertical jigging, and trolling; one jig that covers multiple saltwater fishing techniques.
Product Specifications
| Weight | Approx. oz | Colors Available | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20g | 0.75 oz | Mint White, Blue White, Scrambled Egg, Gold Mint, Lemon Squash, Chewed Gum, Bone, Maiwashi, Katakutchi, Blue Pink, Zebra Glow | $7.99 |
| 30g | 1.0 oz | Toothpaste, Blue White, Gold Mint, Red Crab, Lemon Squash, Chewed Gum, Bone, Maiwashi, Katakutchi, Blue Pink, Zebra Glow | $8.99 |
| 40g | 1.4 oz | Mint White, Blue White, Scrambled Egg, Gold Mint, Red Crab, Lemon Squash, Chewed Gum, Bone, Maiwashi, Katakutchi, Blue Pink, Zebra Glow | $10.99 |
| 60g | 2.1 oz | Toothpaste, Mint White, Blue White, Scrambled Egg, Gold Mint, Red Crab, Lemon Squash, Chewed Gum, Bone, Maiwashi, Katakutchi, Blue Pink, Zebra Glow | $10.99 |
| 80g | 2.8 oz | Toothpaste, Mint White, Blue White, Scrambled Egg, Gold Mint, Red Crab, Lemon Squash, Chewed Gum, Bone, Maiwashi, Katakutchi, Blue Pink, Zebra Glow | $11.99 |
| 100g | 3.5 oz | Toothpaste, Mint White, Blue White, Scrambled Egg, Gold Mint, Red Crab, Lemon Squash, Chewed Gum, Bone, Maiwashi, Katakutchi, Blue Pink, Zebra Glow | $13.99 |
| 130g | 4.6 oz | Toothpaste, Mint White, Blue White, Scrambled Egg, Gold Mint, Red Crab, Lemon Squash, Chewed Gum, Bone, Maiwashi, Katakutchi, Blue Pink, Zebra Glow | $14.99 |
Color Guide
- Maiwashi β Japanese sardine imitation; one of the most effective natural forage colors for yellowtail, tuna, and pelagic species when sardines are the primary bait; translucent silver/blue profile.
- Katakutchi β Japanese anchovy imitation; slim, translucent profile that matches the anchovy forage common in Southern California and Pacific waters; effective for yellowtail and calico bass.
- Blue Pink β Blue/pink combination; natural baitfish profile with pink belly flash; effective for a wide range of saltwater species in clear to lightly stained water.
- Blue White β Classic blue/white baitfish imitation; high-contrast color effective for yellowtail, tuna, and pelagic species in clear water conditions.
- Mint White β Light mint/white combination; subtle natural baitfish imitation effective in clear water where a less aggressive color profile is preferred.
- Toothpaste β Blue/white/green combination; natural baitfish imitation with a subtle green tint effective for calico bass and inshore species around kelp.
- Scrambled Egg β Yellow/white attractor; high-visibility color effective for species that key on yellow-toned forage; good all-around color for mixed species applications.
- Gold Mint β Gold/mint combination; warm gold flash with mint accent; effective in stained water and for species that respond to gold-toned patterns.
- Lemon Squash β Yellow/chartreuse attractor; high-visibility color effective in stained water and low-light conditions where a bright attractor pattern is needed.
- Chewed Gum β Pink/white combination; effective attractor pattern for yellowtail and pelagic species; one of the most consistent colors for casting jigs in offshore applications.
- Red Crab β Red/orange crab imitation; effective for calico bass and inshore species that key on crustacean forage around kelp and rocky structure.
- Bone β Off-white/cream natural imitation; subtle color effective in clear water for pressured fish that have seen more aggressive attractor patterns.
- Zebra Glow β Zebra stripe pattern with glow finish; high-contrast pattern with glow visibility for low-light conditions and deeper water applications.
Weight Selection Guide
- 20β30g (0.75β1.0 oz) β Lighter weights for shorter casts, shallower water, and situations where a slower fall rate and more subtle action is desired. Best for calico bass in kelp and inshore applications on lighter tackle.
- 40β60g (1.4β2.1 oz) β Mid-range weights for general casting applications; balance of casting distance and fall rate for yellowtail and calico bass in moderate depth.
- 80β100g (2.8β3.5 oz) β Heavier weights for longer casts, deeper water, and offshore applications. Best for yellowtail and tuna where maximum casting distance and faster sink rate are needed.
- 130g (4.6 oz) β Maximum weight for longest casts and deepest applications; best for offshore yellowtail and tuna where extreme casting distance or fast sink rate to depth is required.
Best For
- Yellowtail β Rear weight design delivers the long casts needed for yellowtail on iron; horizontal line tie and wire-through construction handle the violent strikes and sustained runs of large yellowtail.
- Calico Bass β Lighter weights (20β40g) and natural forage colors (Maiwashi, Katakutchi, Toothpaste) effective for calico bass around kelp and rocky inshore structure on casting presentations.
- Tuna & Pelagic Species β Heavier weights (80β130g) and natural forage imitations (Maiwashi, Blue White, Blue Pink) for tuna and pelagic species requiring long casts and fast sink rates.
- Vertical Jigging β Profile and weight distribution effective for vertical jigging applications; rear weight produces a distinct action on the fall that triggers strikes from fish holding at depth.
The Sudden Impact 8" Fluke is a large-profile soft jerkbait built for anglers throwing big plastics at white seabass, halibut, and calico bass along the Southern California coast. At 8 inches and 1.2 oz, it matches the mackerel and squid-sized forage these fish are keyed on, and it carries enough mass to cast well on conventional and heavier spinning gear without a heavy head.
Rigged on an 8/0 swimbait jig head, it fishes as a slow-rolled or yo-yo presentation over structure, kelp edges, and sand-to-reef transitions. Rigged weightless on an 8/0 EWG hook, it glides and darts on slack line for shallow water and pressured fish.
What Makes This Bait Work
- 8" profile β sized to match adult squid and small mackerel, the forage white seabass and larger halibut feed on
- 1.2 oz body weight β enough mass to cast weightless, and enough body to stay down on a slow retrieve
- Soft, flexible plastic β the tail section flutters on the pause and on the drop rather than going stiff
- Two proven West Coast colors β Pearl White for clear water and bright conditions, Market Squid for low light, dirty water, and squid spawn
- Takes an 8/0 hook β the body is sized for an 8/0 jig head or 8/0 EWG, not a smaller bass-sized hook
- Sold as a single bait β buy the exact colors and quantity you need
Best Uses
Target Species
- White seabass β slow-rolled on an 8/0 head near kelp and structure, especially during squid spawn
- California halibut β dragged and hopped along sand flats and sand-to-structure edges
- Calico bass β worked over shallow kelp stringers and boiler rocks
- Striped bass β bays, harbors, and river mouths on a slow, steady retrieve
- Largemouth bass (trophy) β weightless glide for big fish on Castaic and Pyramid
Techniques
- Slow roll β 8/0 jig head, steady retrieve just off the bottom or just under the kelp canopy
- Yo-yo β lift and drop; most bites come on the fall, so watch your line
- Weightless glide β 8/0 EWG, twitch-twitch-pause; the bait darts side to side and hangs on the pause
- Bottom drag β for halibut, keep contact with the sand and pause every few feet
Choosing Your Jig Head
This bait takes an 8/0 hook. Head weight is the variable β pick it based on depth and current, not on the size of the bait.
| Conditions | Suggested Head Weight | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Shallow kelp, calm, under 25 ft | 1/2 oz | Keeps the bait high in the water column and preserves the glide |
| 25β50 ft, moderate current | 3/4 oz | Gets down without killing the flutter on the drop |
| Deep structure or strong current | 1 oz or 2 oz | Maintains bottom contact and bite detection in moving water |
| Weightless / shallow finesse | 8/0 EWG hook, no head | The bait's 1.2 oz body carries the cast on its own |
Match the hook, not just the weight. A 4/0 head is too small for an 8" body β the hook point sits too far forward and you will miss fish. Rig this bait on an 8/0 head. The Lead Masters Fluke Head is purpose-built for baits like this one and comes in 1/2 oz, 3/4 oz, 1 oz, and 2 oz, so it covers every row of the table above.
Color Selection
| Color | Best Conditions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl White | Clear water, bright sun, mid-day | Baitfish imitation β mackerel, sardine, smelt |
| Market Squid | Low light, dirty water, night, squid spawn | The default choice when squid are on the grounds |
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 8 inches |
| Weight | 1.2 oz |
| Style | Soft jerkbait / fluke |
| Recommended hook size | 8/0 |
| Colors | Pearl White, Market Squid |
| Sold as | Single bait |
| Vendor | Sudden Impact |
| SKUs | SDNIMPCT-FLK8-PRLWHT / SDNIMPCT-FLK8-MRKSQD |
What's Included
One (1) 8" soft jerkbait in the color selected. Hooks, jig heads, and leader are sold separately.
Recommended Gear
| Component | Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Rod | 7'6"β8' medium-heavy, moderate-fast β enough backbone to drive an 8/0 hook |
| Reel | Conventional in the 20β30 size class, or a 5000β6000 spinning reel |
| Main line | 40β65 lb braid |
| Leader | 25β40 lb fluorocarbon; go heavier around kelp and structure |
Pro Tips
- Most of your bites come on the fall. Keep a slight bow in the line on the drop and watch where the line enters the water β you will see the bite before you feel it.
- Nose-hook it straight. If the bait sits crooked on the head, it will spin on the retrieve and kill the action. Lay the hook along the body before you thread it and mark where the point should exit.
- Slow down for white seabass. The retrieve that feels too slow is usually the right one, particularly during a squid spawn when fish are gorging and lazy.
Common Mistakes
- Using a hook that's too small. A bass-sized 4/0 leaves the point buried in an 8" body. Use 8/0.
- Over-weighting the head. Too much lead on shallow kelp drops the bait past the strike zone and flattens the glide. Start light and add weight only if you can't hold bottom.
- Retrieving too fast. This is a big, slow-moving profile. Burning it looks unnatural and pulls it away from structure-holding fish.
- Setting the hook too early. On a soft plastic this size, let the fish load the rod before you swing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size hook does the 8" Fluke take?
8/0. Either an 8/0 swimbait jig head or an 8/0 EWG hook for weightless rigging. A 4/0 is too small for this body length.
Is this sold in a pack or as a single bait?
Single bait. The listed price is for one 8" soft jerkbait in the color you select.
Can I fish this in freshwater?
Yes. It works as a trophy largemouth bait rigged weightless on an 8/0 EWG, particularly on local lakes with large trout and shad forage.
Which color should I start with?
Market Squid in low light, dirty water, or during a squid spawn. Pearl White in clear water and bright sun. If you're buying one of each, that covers most Southern California conditions.
How do I rig it weightless?
Thread an 8/0 EWG hook through the nose, run it down the body, and exit the point through the top so the bait sits straight. Keep the point exposed or lightly skin-hooked so it drives home on the hookset.
What jig head weight should I use?
1/2 oz for shallow kelp and calm conditions, 3/4 oz for 25β50 feet or moderate current, and 1 oz or 2 oz for deep structure and strong current. See the jig head table above.
Will this work for halibut?
Yes. Fish it on an 8/0 head, dragged and hopped along sand flats and along the edges where sand meets structure. Pause it frequently β halibut ambush from the bottom.
Complete the Setup
- Lead Masters Fluke Heads β 2-Pack, 8/0 β purpose-built fluke head, available 1/2 oz through 2 oz
- Dolphin Gitzem Jig Heads β 8/0 β alternate 8/0 swimbait head
From the Shop
We stock this bait because it's what our customers throw when they're targeting bigger fish with soft plastics on the local coast β the profile matches what white seabass and larger halibut are eating, and the 8/0 hook size means you're rigged for fish that pull. If you're not sure which head weight fits the water you're fishing, come see us on Soledad Canyon Road in Santa Clarita and we'll match it to your rod and your spot.
Versatile Mid-Range Yo-Yo Performance
The JRI Custom Lures JRI-6 Yo-Yo Iron Jigs deliver hand-crafted quality and versatile mid-range performance for a wide variety of deep-water fishing situations. Built with meticulous attention to detail and premium components, these custom yo-yo irons provide the perfect balance of weight and action for targeting yellowtail, calico bass, white seabass, and other gamefish across varying depths and conditions. The JRI-6 represents the all-around workhorse in the JRI yo-yo iron lineup.
Premium Design and Construction
- Hand-Crafted Quality: Each jig is individually made with attention to detail that ensures consistent performance
- Mid-Range JRI-6 Profile: Versatile size and weight for most yo-yo fishing situations
- Balanced Weight: Ideal for a wide range of depths and current conditions
- Premium Components: Quality hooks and hardware built to handle hard-fighting gamefish
- Durable Finish: High-quality plating provides maximum flash and withstands saltwater punishment
- Optimized Action: Precisely balanced for effective yo-yo retrieve and vertical presentation
Classic Yo-Yo Technique
The JRI-6 excels with the classic yo-yo retrieve. Drop the iron down to the desired depth or all the way to the bottom, then retrieve with a quick, steady winding pace that creates an erratic swimming motion. The versatile mid-range weight gets down efficiently, maintains proper action across varying depths, and adapts to different current conditions. The balanced design creates the darting, flashing action that triggers reaction strikes from yellowtail, calico bass, white seabass, and other gamefish.
Built for Versatile Success
Whether you're targeting yellowtail on offshore banks and high spots, working for calico bass around kelp and rocks, fishing for white seabass on deep reefs, pursuing rockfish and lingcod on vertical structure, or yo-yo fishing in any West Coast deep-water situation, the JRI-6 delivers consistent results. The versatile mid-range design makes it an excellent choice for anglers who fish multiple species or want one reliable yo-yo iron that handles most situations.
JRI Custom Lures Quality
JRI Custom Lures has built a reputation for hand-crafted quality and fish-catching performance among serious West Coast anglers. The JRI-6 Yo-Yo Iron continues this tradition, combining versatile mid-range design with meticulous craftsmanship that produces results on the water. From party boats to private vessels, the JRI-6 is trusted by anglers who demand quality and versatility from their yo-yo tackle.
Experience the custom-crafted versatility that serious anglers trust. The JRI Custom Lures JRI-6 Yo-Yo Iron isn't just another jigβit's a hand-crafted all-around tool built to handle most deep-water fishing situations.
Catch more fish with JRI-6 Yo-Yo Ironβwhere custom quality meets versatile performance.
Built for Distance, Designed to Drop
The Shimano Current Sniper is a slim, hydrodynamic metal jig engineered for serious saltwater anglers who need maximum casting distance and a natural, enticing fall. The tapered profile cuts through wind and water resistance to deliver long, accurate casts from shore, pier, or boat β then falls with a tight, fluttering action that mimics a wounded baitfish on the drop. Whether you're working feeding yellowtail off the kelp, casting into breaking tuna, or vertical jigging structure for calico bass, the Current Sniper gets the job done.
The Fall That Triggers the Bite
Most strikes on metal jigs happen on the fall β not the retrieve. The Current Sniper's slim profile and balanced weighting create a controlled, side-to-side flutter on the drop that predatory fish can't ignore. The 2026 color lineup includes both natural baitfish patterns (Blue Sardine, Green Mackerel, Brown Aji, Full Silver) and high-visibility attractor colors (S Back Purple, S Chartreuse Silver) that cover every light condition from early morning topwater to deep midday vertical presentations.
One Jig, Multiple Techniques
The Current Sniper's versatility is what sets it apart. It's equally effective on a fast horizontal retrieve through a bait school, a slow vertical drop along a kelp edge, or a suspended presentation at a specific depth. The 8-size range β from 21g for light inshore work to 120g for deep offshore vertical jigging β means you can match the right weight to the depth, current, and target species without switching to a different jig family.
When to Reach for the Current Sniper
- Yellowtail are holding on kelp edges or offshore structure and won't commit to a surface iron
- Tuna are breaking on bait and you need maximum casting distance to reach the school
- Calico bass are stacked on structure and a vertical presentation is more effective than casting
- Surf fishing for corbina, halibut, or stripers where a slim profile and long cast are critical
- You need one jig that works from 21g inshore to 120g offshore without changing your approach
Best Retrieve Techniques
- Cast and Retrieve: Cast into breaking fish or feeding zones, let the jig sink briefly, then retrieve with a fast, steady wind β the slim profile creates a tight, darting action that triggers reaction strikes
- Vertical Jigging: Drop to the bottom or target depth, then work the jig with short, sharp lifts and controlled drops β the flutter on the fall is when most strikes occur
- Slow Fall / Suspended: Cast out, count the jig down to a specific depth, then retrieve slowly to keep it in the strike zone β deadly for suspended yellowtail and tuna
- Yo-Yo: Let the jig sink to the bottom, rip it up 5β10 feet, and let it flutter back down β effective for calico bass and rockfish on structure
Best Conditions
- Offshore kelp beds and structure for yellowtail and calico bass
- Open water tuna fishing when fish are breaking on bait or holding at depth
- Surf and pier fishing for halibut, corbina, and striped bass
- Any situation where casting distance and a natural falling action are the priority
- Clear to lightly stained saltwater where the jig's profile and flash carry
Best For
- Species: Yellowtail, Bluefin Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Calico Bass, Halibut, Striped Bass, Rockfish, Corbina
- Techniques: Cast and Retrieve, Vertical Jigging, Slow Fall, Yo-Yo, Surf Casting
- Conditions: Kelp edges, offshore structure, open water, surf, pier
Key Features
- Slim, hydrodynamic profile for maximum casting distance
- Balanced weighting for a natural, fluttering fall action
- Effective for both horizontal casting and vertical jigging
- 2026 color lineup β 7 patterns covering natural baitfish and high-visibility attractor colors
- 8 sizes from 21g to 120g for inshore to offshore applications
- Durable construction built for hard-striking saltwater species
Models & Specs
| Size | MPN | Length (in) | Length (mm) | Weight (oz) | Weight (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21g | JM002ME | 2 1/2" | 65 mm | 3/4 oz | 21 g |
| 28g | JM003ME | 2 2/3" | 71 mm | 1 oz | 28 g |
| 35g | JM004ME | 3 1/8" | 78 mm | 1 1/4 oz | 35 g |
| 42g | JM005ME | 3 3/8" | 85 mm | 1 1/2 oz | 42 g |
| 60g | JM006ME | 3 5/8" | 91 mm | 2 1/8 oz | 60 g |
| 80g | JM007ME | 3 7/8" | 100 mm | 2 7/8 oz | 80 g |
| 100g | JM008ME | 4 1/4" | 108 mm | 3 1/2 oz | 100 g |
| 120g | JM009ME | 4 1/2" | 115 mm | 4 1/4 oz | 120 g |
Tackle Express Tips
- Match Weight to Depth and Current: Use lighter weights (21β42g) for shallow inshore work, surf, and pier fishing. Step up to 60β80g for kelp edge and mid-depth offshore work. Go 100β120g when you need to get deep fast in strong current or target fish holding at 100+ feet.
- Color Selection by Conditions: In clear water with good light, natural patterns like Blue Sardine, Green Mackerel, and Full Silver are go-to choices. In low light, early morning, or overcast conditions, S Back Purple and S Chartreuse Silver stand out. Brown Aji is a sleeper pick when fish are keyed on small baitfish or squid.
- Let It Fall: Resist the urge to start your retrieve immediately after the cast. Count the jig down to the target depth β most strikes happen on the initial fall. If you're not getting bit on the retrieve, slow down and let the jig flutter longer on the drop.
FAQ
What size Current Sniper should I use for yellowtail?
For kelp edge yellowtail in 30β60 feet, the 42β60g sizes are the most versatile. If fish are holding deeper or current is strong, step up to 80g. For open-water yellowtail on the surface or in the top 20 feet, the 28β42g sizes cast farther and fall more naturally.
Can I use the Current Sniper from the surf?
Yes β the 21β42g sizes are ideal for surf fishing. The slim profile casts well on spinning gear with 20β30 lb braid and a fluorocarbon leader. Target halibut, corbina, and striped bass by casting parallel to the beach and retrieving through the trough.
What's the difference between the "A" and "S" color codes?
The "A" prefix indicates a natural, translucent baitfish pattern (e.g., A Blue Sardine, A Green Mackerel). The "S" prefix indicates a solid, high-visibility attractor pattern (e.g., S Back Purple, S Chartreuse Silver). Use "A" patterns in clear water and good light; use "S" patterns in low light, stained water, or when fish need a more aggressive trigger.
Clear Choice Ghost Poppers have become a staple in the saltwater topwater scene β and for good reason. The clear plastic body makes fish less wary while the aggressive cup design throws a massive surface disturbance that pulls tuna and other pelagics up from depth. Built with line-through technology and heavy-duty split rings as standard, these poppers are built to handle the biggest fish in the ocean.
Available in three sizes to match conditions and target species β from yellowfin to 200lb+ bluefin.
Key Features
- Clear body design β reduces fish wariness while maintaining a realistic silhouette
- Unique cup design β throws long distances and creates a surface disturbance that draws fish up
- Line-through technology β all three sizes; crimp directly onto the front eyelet with 100lb+ line
- Round stainless one-piece wire through β eliminates the rust-prone square stamped steel wire found on imitations
- Origin hooks standard β 4x or 5x depending on size
- Heavy-duty split rings β standard on all sizes
Size Guide
| Model | Length | Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ghost 130 | 5.1" (130mm) | ~1.6oz | Versatile all-around size for yellowfin and smaller pelagics |
| Ghost 150 | 5.9" (150mm) | 2.1oz (58g) | Best seller β proven 5:1 over other surface lures; handles 200lb+ bluefin |
| Ghost 170 | 6.7" (170mm) | 2.9oz (82g) | Cow catcher β for heavy setups when big fish are present; casts well into the wind |
The Halco Max 190 Lure offers superior performance with its slimΒ minnow design, enabling jigging, casting, or trolling up to 20 knots with minimal drag. Its slim tail section ensures greater hook visibility and efficiency on the strike. This lure is a top-of-the-line solution for any angler.
Born in Australia, Halco's designers know how to make a lure that get's bit and also holds up to the toughest fish.Β The construction, hooks, split rings and hardware are very strong and have caught tuna in the hundreds of pounds.Β The many colors allow you to pick one that best fits your fishing conditions.Β Β
The Halco Max 190 LureΒ is designed for heavy high speed spinning and trolling, It is ideal for large salt water predators such as tuna, mackerel and wahoo. With extra heavy side walls for maximum strength and the slender profile allows trolling speeds in excess of 20 knots, features Mustad Inline 7/0 singles for the ultimate hook holding ability.
| Model | MPN | Type | Length (in) | Length (mm) | Hook | Depth (ft) | Depth (m) | Trolling Speed |
| 110 | MAX110 | Fast Sinking | 4 3/8 in | 110 mm | #2 Mustad 3XX Trebles | 6 9/16 ft | 2 m | 2-12 kn |
| 130 | MAX130 | Fast Sinking | 5 1/8 in | 130 mm | #2 Mustad 3XX Trebles | 6 9/16 ft | 2 m | 2-12 kn |
| 190 | MAX190 | Fast Sinking | 7 1/2 in | 190 mm | 7/0 Mustad Inline Singles | 6 9/16 ft | 2 m | 2-12 kn |
| 220 | MAX220 | Fast Sinking | 8 5/8 in | 220 mm | 9/0 Mustad Inline Singles | 6 9/16 ft | 2 m | 2-14 kn |
Max is also a great lure to troll while traveling from spot to spot due to its high speed characteristics.
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