steelhead jig tying question

[heron153]

HI,
I am thinking of tying steelhead jigs and found a company that sells almost any hook/weight combination. What size and weight is preferred? I fish the rocky mostly.

[Art Vandaley]

Jig head weight 1/64oz and 1/32oz on Rocky & for most part in our area(MI,OH,PA,NY). Hook size #10, #8, #6....just make sure they are quality hooks with good molds. Pin and bead is also an option if you have the right hooks but no lead head or you are looking for "specialty" weight or color. I get my jig heads form Jason at Pulse Jigs and he is always good for tying advise and/or a quick lesson if he has the time. Again, pay for quality hooks on the jig heads and you won't get frustrated...Matzuo, Mustad, Owner, Daiichi just to name a few. You will no doubt have fun tying and catching with your own creations. Be creative and have fun at the vise.

Be Friendly & Safe On The Water

[heron153]

thanks for the reply. I fish with stuff I make myself as much as I can, but do you have any idea why pulse quit selling pre-tied jig/flies?

[heron153]

also - anyone know where I can get craft fur that is of a decent length? I have seen swatches at some crafting stores, but the fibers aren't real long - maxing out at about 1.5 inches. I'd like to find some closer to 3" - the pulse web site doesn't seem to sell the fur.

[Art Vandaley]

The Pulse Jigs site has craft fur on one of the Wapsi pages. It is the same stuff that other Wapsi dealers carry. I know that Jason has colors of the fur that I have never even seen before like over 40 different colors of the stuff. The way he explained it to me was that your best bet for quality fur is to buy straight off of bolts. After I researched fabric companies it usually runs between $20-$30 per yard for the long shag/pile. I wouldn't use a whole yard in a lifetime. If you go to research make sure you ask for LONG SHAG/PILE and see if the company will send you a swatch.
At the height of Jason's tying he was moving about 1,000 units of jigs/flies per week. He had a tendon snap off of his right elbow and had to have it reattached. Doctor told him if he went back to the volume he was tying he would need to reschedule the surgery once a year. I know that he is no longer tying for guides or retailers but he is still tying on the side when contacted. There is a Special Orders page that he put up after surgery where you can still order a select few of his jigs(link on home page). Contact Jason-he's easy to talk to and will help you if he is able.

Be Friendly & Safe On The Water