It was only the fourth time Latics had failed to score in a league game this season, and the draw meant their lead at the top of the table was pruned by two points.
But they still hold a commanding 13-point lead over second-placed Crewe, and are nailed on favourites to take the title.
Latics had their chances to win the game, Andy Liddell hitting the bar with a first half free-kick.
A dominant second half display failed to muster a deadlock breaker, and it needed a great save from John Filan at the other end to prevent Jason Price snatching a winner for Tranmere.
It leaves Latics still looking for their first home league win over the Wirral side after seven attempts.
Jewell said: "The effort was there but we didn't win the game.
"I always demand the effort and you can't accuse of not having it out there.
"Perhaps we can be accused of lacking a little bit of quality, or fox-in-the-box if you like, but other than that, I've no complaints.
"We battered Tranmere in the second half, and apart from John Filan making a great save from Price, they were camped in their own box.
"Sometimes there were 20 bodies in the box and it can be difficult to find the space to score. We just needed that little bit more luck and quality in front of goal.
"I don't know how many free-kicks and corners we had, but the ball just wouldn't go in. But credit to Tranmere because they defended well and got plenty of men behind the ball.
"Remember, we aren't going to win every game despite some people thinking we will.
"Tranmere are trying to get into the play-offs and a point here is a good result for them."
The draw moved Latics on to 80 points from 35 games and Jewell is delighted with the position of strength they're in.
He said: "I wouldn't swap our position with anyone.
"But we are not thinking that everything is done and dusted – it isn't.
"I will continue saying that until it is, and there are still a lot of points to play for.
"We still have to drive ourselves on and will be taking one game at a time."
Tony Dinning was a casualty from last night's clash, departing the action in the 49th minute after getting a kick in the face which loosened a front tooth.
He went straight to a dental surgery for treatment and is an early doubt for Saturday's visit to Peterborough.
Jewell said: "We've sent Tony off to the dentist because he got a kick in the mouth. He's pretty sore and we'll have to see how he is later in the week."
Tranmere boss Ray Mathias, returning to the club he managed twice, was content.
He said: "I'm pleased with the result although we had to take a little bit of pressure as the second half went on.
"But that's what it's all about coming here, with Wigan being top of the league."
Article from the Wigan Evening Post.