I like to keep my tails short. About 1/2 inch past the hook bend. I feel I get less "short" hits that way. I noticed most guys use longer tails. (Some up to 2-2 1/2 inches pass the hook bend) Just wondering what you guys think about this subject? Longer tails; more short hits? Or does it depend on the part of country you fish?
Tail length on crappie jigs
- Thread starter Muskygary
- Start date
Jig Man
Active member
I think it depends on the bit. my tail is usually 1.5 the length of the shank. If I miss several thumps I'll down size the bait..
Gary, IMO you are opening a real big can of worms here. Kinda like Bobby "Waterboy" Beauche saying "but Mamma Said".
I usually tie 1X the length of the shank but will tie some 2x the length. Also, sometimes with a really sparse tail. I will go even shorter. I have a box of early season jigs that have less than 10 barbules that barely go past the bend of the hook, either a thread collar or a double width (2 wraps) of size 0 chenille.
Short Strikes IMO are a size or presentation problem usually working the jig too fast or using too large of a jig.
I usually tie 1X the length of the shank but will tie some 2x the length. Also, sometimes with a really sparse tail. I will go even shorter. I have a box of early season jigs that have less than 10 barbules that barely go past the bend of the hook, either a thread collar or a double width (2 wraps) of size 0 chenille.
Short Strikes IMO are a size or presentation problem usually working the jig too fast or using too large of a jig.
