Does anyone have some good information on jig fishing for summer-run steelhead. Any information on tying them with rabbit fur would be great. Colors, sizes, etc. would be helpful. Thanks

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Shop teacher,
hehe you like that? I tie all of my summer jigs in 1/16 and 1/32oz weights. Some people will disagree with me on going so light but when the rivers in our area drop in August and are gin clear the lighter weight will spook less fish. I use a size 4 hook when I mold my jig heads, which is pretty small when you think about it. I tie alot of cerise colors, cerise and black, black and red, and black in general. Black in the summer time is a great color. I use either chenel, and yarn for my jigs or marabou. I have never tried using rabbit fur for my jigs, although I have tied many flies using it. The yarn patterns will hold scent alot better, but the marabou has a good motion to it. I personally think it is just a preference to whoever may be fishing them. I will bring a few samples to school to show you my low water summer jigs. You will like them, alot of people are buying my jigs right now gearing up for summer runs!

Thanks,
Andy Matthews http://The_Steelhead_Solution.homestead.com

Generally I run 1/8th and 1/16th oz heads in the summer. Good colors include the reds, pinks, and blacks. Don't overlook blue color combos in the summer also. I prefer marabou over rabbit, I think it has better action in the water. If you want some quality jigs or jigheads for tying your own contact Rainbow Jigs at rainbowjigs@aol.com and they can hook you up or awnser any questions you have.

fishon
Due to the bait restriction on our coastal rivers in the summer months, I use a lot of jigs. I also use 1/8th & 1/16th jig head size. Red and black or any combination of the two colors works great for me. You can do a search for jigs on the top of this board. There are alot of good ideas from experienced jig fishermen. I too contacted rainbowjigs and it was the BEST customer service I've ever had. Highly recommended.
Mark

fishon, Inventor and no-longer owner of "John's Jigs" here to let you know that rabbit fur looks better in the water than maribou and lasts one hell of a lot longer especially after getting slimed by a fish. Original "John's Jigs" were tied with a chennile body and maribou tail, but lacked the quality and strength rabbit does. Customer satisfaction was goal # 1 at the time, only problem I had was guys hooks straightining out on fish. Sorry, cant disclose how they were tied, part of sales agreement, all I can tell you is go out and buy some to see how rabbit works for you. Works great for me and many others. No, I don't make any money off them anymore. Honest opinion. J----<")(\(\)>{