Build better jigs

[Weed Shark]

I don't tie flies or jigs, so I'm no expert, but I think the quality of jigs is lacking.

I have a favorite jig which works on panfish and walleyes. I won't name the company, but I like the sparkle material they use. For years after purchasing them, I put clear nailpolish on the threads so it doesn't unravel after a few fish. But the hook quality is also poor, they're easy to bend. When going to Canada, I've bought some material and built my own crude versions with stronger hooks, because the rocks are hard on them and the largest size isn't all that large for walleyes. It's frustrating, why can't some tackle companies build a quality jig? How hard would it be to start with a decent hook?

[Bushwacker]

I totally understand what you are saying. I think I know what company you are talking about too. Two summers ago I lost to beautiful walleyes(I think) on two different jigs from the same company. Both of the fish came up almost to where I could see them and the hook bent straight on both of them. That was it for me and that jig.

I flip bass jigs in the heavy stuff a lot and it is crazy how some brands of hooks straighten out even in the heavy 3/0 and 4/0 sizes. Now I pick my bass jigs by the brand of hook first, then the rest of the jig second.

[Deitz Dittrich]

If you dont like the hook, then its time to get a different jig. There are quality jigs out there, as you stated, not all jigs are created equal.

[river rat316]

One thing to remember is most of those hooks in the smaller jigs are light wire and they bend easy no matter what brand you use, to get a heavier wire also requires heavier gear to drive that hook home, if your using a light wire hook you should not be using a mh rod and braid, or even a medium rod and braid, they were meant for lighter rods and mono line (it stretches). Im not totally missing your point here though, it amazes me that most of the hooks from a certain company... ok Ill say it, Eagle Claw, are dull as all get out. Also watch what material is used for the hook, I think Gamakatsu's and Owners are carbon steel, which makes them lighter and stronger. But also alot more expensive. I tie alot of hairjigs on the Gammy 604 jig hook which is a little bit heavier wire but man it doesn't take THAT much more to get a good hookset and they are strong and sharp! I also use all Owner or Gammy in the bass jigs that I fish with, you can really tell the difference, most companys wont start out a baseline jig with these hooks though cause you can get a 4/0 EC for about 5-7 cents for a flipping hook, and a Owner or Gammy cost around 27-40 cents a piece