Making Bucktail Jigs

Here is a good winter project to keep busy and restock your tackle arsenal. Bucktail jigs are easy to make and are very versatile lures. All that's needed to make simple bucktail jigs are jig heads, deer tails, rod wrapping thread and clear nail polish. Jig heads can be poured or purchased from a variety of sources. The other materials can be purchased from your local tackle shop, at flea markets or online. Hackle feathers or synthetic hair materials can also be used in place of bucktail.

Step 1. Clamp the jig in a vice and start a wrap of thread around the jig.

Step 2. Cut some deer hair from a section of bucktail.

Step 3. lay the section hair in place and wrap, repeating until hair goes completely around the jig.

 

Step 4. Wrap the thread over the hair until its covered and smooth. Ends sticking out the front can be trimmed later. Apply multiple coats of clear nail polish until the thread is glossy. Trim any overhanging hair from the front and recoat with polish as needed.

The finished jig