How to Make Rigs, Jigs and Leaders for Fishing
Making fishing tackle has many advantages over buying prepared tackle. A rig made by the angler allows him to custom-fit the rig to a favorite fishing spot, a specific type of fish, various water conditions and all the knowledge that is acquired during fishing. There is also the question of economy. Tackle parts purchased in bulk from a local tackle shop or an on-line retailer can be had at a much lower cost than manufactured tackle. All the tools that are required to custom make tackle, such as pliers and wire cutters, can be found in any home.
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Things You'll Need
- Monofilament line
- Beads
- Snaps
- Swivels
- Crimps
- Jig heads
- Hooks
- Pliers
- Wire Cutters
Instructions
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To take smaller fish in the 1- to 10-pound range requires only light tackle. Light tackle is considered to be under 5- to 10-pound for the main line, with leaders in the 1- to 5-pound range. The hooks and jigs used in these rigs should match the fish being sought. Hook sizes are determined by number with the smallest hook, a 32, being used for small lures in fly fishing, up to a 1 for crappie and small bass. Number 12 barrel swivels are used at the head for construction of leaders and number 12 snap swivels at the hook end. The knot best-suited for this type of tackle is the uni knot. Begin the know by passing the tag end through the weight eyelet and returning it along the main line. Make a loop by taking the tag end back toward the weight and, just short of the weight eyelet, wrap the tag end around the main line, passing the tag end between the created loop and the main line. Do this four or five times, working back toward the main line. Moisten the line by spitting on it and firmly pull the tag end to tighten the knot. Gently slide the knot down to the weight eyelet; do this carefully because it causes friction on a monofilament line and can weaken the line. Clip the tag end when the knot is firm.
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Medium-size tackle is the answer for fish in the 10- to 20-pound range. The same type of material used in creating light tackle is required for medium tackle, but in a larger scale. Hooks for example would be in the 1/0 to 3/0 range. Leaders would be of heavier-test as well. Swivels and snaps would be in the larger sizes as well. The uni knot would still be your knot of choice.
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When you're angling for fish above 20 pounds, the tackle becomes heavier. Main lines are thicker and with a greater test pound range, hooks are 3/0 and higher. Often wire leaders are needed because of the conditions, rocks, fallen trees and submerged structures where large fish live. To construct wire leaders, you will need crimps and a pair of pliers. To make a wire leader, slide one end through an eye of a barrel swivel and loop the tag end over your little finger. Holding the loop with one hand, slide the crimp to the eyelet of the swivel; allow enough room for the eyelet to move freely. Close the crimp tightly with a pair of pliers and nip the tag end short with wire cutters. Repeat the operation at the hook end of the leader using an appropriate-size snap swivel. The uni knot remains a good choice for joining main line and leader.
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When constructing tackle for freshwater fishing, rely on monofilament for leaders and standard swivels, snaps and hooks. You might want to consider using wire leaders in conditions where there are rocks or submerged obstacles, such as logs. The major drawback with wire leaders is their visibility, which tends to spook freshwater species. In those situations a heavier monofilament leader would be better.
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Do-it-yourself tackle for saltwater fishing poses several problems. This environment tends to be tougher on tackle, and the fish larger. With more-turbulent water conditions, visibility is not a main issue and with the requirement of heavier leaders it is often better to chose wire as a leader material. The other issue is corrosion, so materials to construct tackle should be stainless steel or brass, and the sizes should be more robust.
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Tips & Warnings
Saltwater tackle should be rinsed in freshwater to prevent corrosion.
Use caution when making wire leaders and nipping the tag end. The loose end can fly upward. Safety goggles are recommended.
