At Spawn Fly Fish, we know that not everyone is a fly fisherman, but the creativity and excitement of tying jigs is just as exhilarating! Whether you’re targeting crappie, coho, or even going after lingcod and halibut, we’ve got you covered with the best materials available for your jig tying needs. There’s something special about creating your own lure and then watching it work its magic in the water. If you're looking to dive into the world of jig tying, you're in the right place.
As we gear up for the long winter ahead, now is the perfect time to step into the arena and tie up your first jig. Unlike fly tying, there isn’t a great all-in-one starter kit for jig tying, so we’re here to break down the essential materials you’ll need to get started.
Essential Materials for Jig Tying
When it comes to jig tying, there are a few core materials that you’ll see over and over again: marabou, chenille, rabbit strips, legs, and flash. Inside each of these categories, there are countless options, and we’re here to help you navigate through them.
Thread
First off, let’s talk about thread. You’ll want something durable, especially for jig tying where heavier materials and fish are involved. Avoid lighter threads like 8/0, which are more common in fly tying. Instead, go with something strong, like Veevus 140 Power Thread. This thread lets you really crank down on your materials without worrying about breakage—saving you frustration while building your perfect jig.
Marabou
For jig tying, standard Hareline or FishHunter marabou will be your go-to. You don’t need extra select or spey marabou when you’re just starting out. Marabou is key for creating a lot of movement in the water, making it a staple for a wide variety of jig patterns.
Chenille
Chenille adds bulk and flash to your jigs. There are countless types and sizes, but you’ll want to avoid anything labeled midge or nymph sizes for now. One of the most popular choices is Cactus Chenille in medium—it’s a great starting point and perfect for building jigs that catch fish.
Rabbit Strips
Rabbit strips bring incredible lifelike movement to your jigs. Most jig tiers reach for Magnum rabbit strips for the tail. These strips are wider, adding bulk and movement. Pair this with a matching crosscut rabbit strip for the body. The crosscut strips lay flat and wrap nicely around the hook, creating a smooth, flowing body.
Legs
Jig tiers love experimenting with legs, and there are endless options out there. The Crazy Legs from Hareline are among the most popular for their durability and flexibility. You can add legs to create additional motion and attraction, making your jigs even more enticing.
Flash
Flash can be overwhelming because there are so many types. The two most popular choices among jig tiers are 1/69th Lateral Scale and Holographic Flashabou. Both of these add a subtle but critical bit of sparkle that will grab the attention of fish. At Spawn Fly Fish, we carry every color, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
Head Cement
Once your jig is tied, you’ll need to ensure it stays together after multiple hookups. A good head cement is essential for locking everything in place after you’ve mastered the whip finish or half-hitch knot.
Tools You’ll Need
Although this blog focuses on materials, you’ll also need a few basic tools to get started: a vise, bobbin, scissors, and a whip finish tool.
Ready to Get Started?
Jig tying is an amazing way to connect with the water and get creative, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're tying for crappie, coho, lingcod, or even halibut, Spawn Fly Fish has all the materials you need to craft the perfect jig. This winter, why not try your hand at something new? We’re confident that once you tie your first jig, you’ll be hooked.