The Smeltinator Jig Head by Northland Fishing Tackle, designed by Canadian Angler Bryan Gustafson in collaboration with Bassmaster Elite Series pro Jeff Gustafson and Northland Tackle founder John Peterson, offers anglers a realistic, premium minnow head suitable for catching slender baitfish in the Northern US and Canada. Bryan consulted with John during the manufacturing process, resulting in a jig that has dominated the Canadian Tournament scene and helped Jeff Gustafson win over $400,000 through B.A.S.S, including the 2023 Bassmaster Classic. When Bryan licensed the manufacturing rights to Northland Tackle, the three elements that brought this jig to life and made it famous were reunited. The Smeltinator stands out from other jig heads due to its high-quality components, including a sticky sharp Gamakatsu hook, lifelike 3D holographic eyes, sculpted gill plates, and a universal ribbed baitkeeper that securely holds plastics without damaging them.
With four available weights (1/8 oz, ¼ oz, 3/8 oz, and ½ oz) and five hook sizes (1/0-5/0), the Smeltinator Jig Head is a versatile option suited for various soft plastic baits and fishing conditions. Whether targeting small perch or large shad, the jig's baitfish imitation is crucial, especially in waters with sonar and pressure. For finesse swimbaits and minnow baits around 3", the most popular hook sizes are 1/0 and 2/0. For baits around 4", a 2/0 or 3/0 hook size is recommended, as seen in 'Gussy's' Bassmaster Elite Series and Bassmaster Classic win on the Tennessee River with a 4-5 inch minnow style bait. For baits over 5 inches, anglers typically use a 4/0 or 5/0 hook size.