What to learn how to tie a jig? That’s great. They are one of the easiest lures to make and can be made with just about any material. Here is how to make them:
Secure your jig head – If you are like most anglers, you probably don’t have a fly tying vise. There are a few other ways, that I have used, to secure the hook. (1) You can use locking pliers (like Vise-Grips) by clamping the jig head. (2) You can anchor your jig head by pushing the hook into a piece of soft wood like pine. (3) Probably not the best way, you can simply hold the jig head between your fingers while tying.
Tie on the thread – Wrap the thread around the shank of the jig head hook to “establish the thread”. This means that the thread is securely in place and will not come loose. You should wrap it around the hook about 7-10 times for extra strength. If you don’t have the “special” fly tying thread, you can use regular sewing thread.
Tie on the jig material – Tie on the jig “tail material” (whatever it may be) on by placing it next to the hook and then wrapping it a few times to secure it to the shank. Repeat until you are satisfied with the amount of tail material. Trim all the extra tail material like Al Daher shows in the video.
Wrap the collar – Wrap the thread around the tail material to create a collar. You need to wrap the thread quite tightly (careful not to rip) to secure all the jig tail material in place.
Tie off the thread – You can do a whip finish knot or any other knot that will keep the thread from unwinding. I wouldn’t worry about the knot too much since you will be gluing it.
Head Cement “glue” the collar – Generously apply the glue to the collar of the jig, allowing it to seep into the thread. You can use fly tying head cement, nail polish, super glue, or any other glue that will not weaken when wet.
As soon as the glue dries you are done. Don’t worry if your jig looks ugly. In my experience the fish don’t really care. They still want to eat it. Keep practicing and you will become a jig tying expert in no time. Lastly, consider your line. For added knot strength, we recommend a braided line. Now go and catch some fish with your new homemade lure.
