10-21-2021, 10:47 PM
(10-21-2021, 04:43 PM)joatmon Wrote: Thanks Pat, that will be useful. I have been trying to gather/find the "ingredients" and have a few questions:
What do you use for the bit to cut plugs? You mentioned rod blanks, but I don't have any of those. Also, what do you add to neck it down to fit in a drill chuck and be stable? If you guys are able to come up, I will help you make a couple of plug cutters. I usually use a piece of 1/4" wood dowel...wrapped with masking tape to fit snugly. Since I have been building and repairing rods for many years, I have a whole bunch of rod blank pieces.
Is there a "go by" for determining length and diameter of plugs relative to hook gap and length? I assume you don't want to fill the hook gap? Definitely wanna leave plenty of hook gap to grab "inquiring" fish. You can generally get a good feel just by placing hooks next to the plug. But I can make suggestions or help you with a sizing chart.
Is there a place to buy Matzuo sickle jig hooks? I can't seem to find any online. Are the Eagle Claw or Mustad sickle jig hooks comparable? I do have some #6 aberdeen jig hooks left over from tying balanced leach flies for ice fishing last winter and may start with those for "practice" on some ice fligs. Matzuo USA closed shop a couple of years ago and their hooks have only been available sporadically on Ebay or similar. The good news is that I bought a bunch before the hoarders got there and I can supply you with most of the sizes you need...at least in small quantities. The Eagle Claw "Nasties" have the sickle shape but the hook wire is wimpy and bends easily. You can use any hooks you want. Most of those available online use Mustad hooks...but most of them are not really good strong hooks.
Thanks again.
Brett