Here are my basics, 3/4 oz. hair jigs in black, purple and JD green with stinger hook, always take minnows to tip your jig, but you don't always need them. Drift sock to keep you drift at .6mph or less. Always keep your jig on a tight line going down because most hits come on the fall. Any increase in weight when lifting, set the hook. Vary your jig rhythm until you find what is working that day. Pause at the top, no pause, and always touch the bottom with each downstroke.
I use 10# braid and I don't use a leader, but I know some people prefer a leader. I also prefer a 6' med/fast, high quality rod.