Got some squirrel tails - need ideas for bream jigs

[jawjatek]

Thanks, all. I get the general idea. I have some black-dyed squirrel tails coming, as well as some arctic fox to try out. I will tie some natural, and some black. I've watched a number of videos and think I know enough to get started. When I get some tied up I'll post a pic reply to this thread. Oh, and if I catch any good panfish, there will be pics of those as well.

[FurFlyin]

Here's you some motivation jawjatek,

Micro Fishing For BIG Shellcracker! - YouTube

[jawjatek]

Yep, I've seen that one, and all his videos, already. Long time subscriber.

I'm motivated. Panfish are my game. I caught some really big bluegill and shellcrackers myself last spring/summer, mostly using a wiggler on a plain jig head, which is super-effective on crackers and almost eliminates gut-hooking. I've been slaying crappie with my hand-ties, which I learned to tie watching SKs jig videos, and others, so I figured I'll try tying the squirrel/hair jig next.

[Takeum]

Love paw paw gene

[jawjatek]

I can't get a good look at the jigs in RGTFM's video, but here are the first 4 attempts with black squirrel tail, on 1/32 oz #6 hook jig heads:


I think they need to be a little shorter? Also maybe a little thicker. What do ya think? It will be a while before I go to fish for bluegill/redears.

[FurFlyin]

I agree on needing to be shorter, but don't think they need to be thicker. I'd even tie a few thinner by half.

[GrumpyLoomis]

I would not give up on long tailed jigs just yet. They are not different from different colors on some days. I like the long and shorter tails. Just experiment and let the slabs tell you.

[skeetbum]

One I tie is very close to that. Don’t discount what you’ve already done, they look real good. The one I tie is a black head, a shorter than you used red thread neck (close to 1/8”), and about 3/4 a tail length as you use. Not 100% of the time but they are smokin hot when the time is right. You’re off to a good start.


The top one is a big favorite of mine, and the olive micro chenille on some of the others also. All those are 1/43oz #8 and work very well for me. Olive and white is another.

[jawjatek]

A couple others. I'm also learning to tie rubber legs.

[GrumpyLoomis]

I also work with rubber legs but they are hard to control near brush as those pesky lil bluegill will dart out, grab a leg and pull it into the brush for the kill. Getting a 4 inch bluegill outta brush is tough. No meat and no jig most times.