Thread: Tying on jigs

I like to use Mustad Fastach Clips, size 0. Easy on, easy off when wanting to change jig head styles/weights. I found them clearanced at walmart one day and bought a bunch.

Only time I'd use a loop knot is if I'm fishing surface baits like poppers and Floating Rapalas'. Few I've read use the uni-knot, one I vouch for as the easiest to tie cinch knots and one that never comes loose. Line to line - the uni-.

When it comes to natural or unnatural, CrappiePappy said it best with example he gave (though I personally don't want a tag end to distract from the lure.) Fish that strike lures do so because they are moving objects, going at the right speed, are one of many natural or unnatural shapes and actions and thereby capable of provoking fish to strike (for whatever reason anyone chooses to believe).

For me it comes down to which way the lure is moving : up & down or horizontally.
For vertical jigging, either loop or cinch is fine. But I like a tight knot at 45 degrees to the eye if swimming the lure horizontally as well as keeping the lure's body horizontal, except when paused or twitched. This applies to soft plastic lures and materials that flow behind a jig head.

For Beetle Spins, in-line spinners, surface lures and crankbaits, IMHO loop knots allow the best lure action and a lure's action is where it's at.

I believe you want to have the jig moving more or less "freely" on the retrieve, drift, or troll. This can certainly be accomplished using a loop knot of some sort. However, I do not like the idea of the eye of the jig moving freely against the inside of the loop knot, mainly for a concern about abrasion of the loop.

This can happen! Years ago when I first started trout fishing, I always used a loop knot. Then one day I hooked into a decent bass and played him for a few minutes. The line went limp and I pulled in my loop which had broken at the end of the loop. True story.

I still believe a free moving jig head best allows your bait to act in a more lifelike manner - as opposed to a direct tie. So, I tried some different snaps and finally arrived at the best solution for my problem. They are called "Snap Hooks", which are sold at Jannsnetcraft and manufactured by Mustad. The are light spring wire clips that are small, yet allow full freedom of the head during most presentations. You tied directly to the clip. Here is the link:

Mustad Snap Hooks. Easily change flies without tying

They are designed for flyfishermen to quickly change flies while wading. (That speaks volumes for their lightness!) I've been using these snap hooks for many, many years now (the size #2 works well with 1/32 - 1/8 oz. jigheads) and they give me the confidence that I'm presenting my bait as realistically as possible.

These hooks also allows for quick change up of jig heads should that be necessary. I've caught a ton of crappie, perch, bass, trout and pike using this simple snap. I see no downside. Just my opinion, but it does work well for me. Tight lines Folks!

Dang am I the only one that uses a Palomar knot when not using a loop knot? I am a bit surprised by this!

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I use a palomar knot, too. Those Mustad snap hooks look like something I'd be interested in trying though.

Originally Posted by lowe175

Just use what works for you it doesn't matter ...

This ^^^^

What ever knot you use just make sure your jigs sits horizontal.... that's the most important step.... I always use a loop knot now... got tied of always having to pull my polarmor into position.....

Originally Posted by SuperCorona

I use a palomar knot, too. Those Mustad snap hooks look like something I'd be interested in trying though.

FYI, I have some better clips than they have IMHO! PM me if you would like to see what they look like.

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