How To Tie Bass Jigs With Wire (You Need To Know These Tips!)

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When I first started making jigs, I wanted to tie silicone skirts onto the jigs.

But I didn’t have a fancy vise or a bobbin. Even if I did, I didn’t know how to use them…

Yet…I still wanted something more durable than rubber, for my skirt collar.

Enter craft wire – a super affordable, super easy-to-use material for tying silicone skirts onto jigs!

With wire tying, you don’t need tons of experience, a bobbin, thread, or even a vise. If you have a pair of pliers and a roll of craft wire, you are more than ready to begin tying skirts onto jigs today!

Full disclaimer – I now tie tons of jigs with thread (the control it offers is truly unmatched). BUT… I still reach for wire when I need a quick and easy way to throw a skirt onto a jig.

Check out today’s video to learn my quick and easy process for wire tying skirts onto jigs, so you can start tying jigs with ease!

🧵 Materials Needed

• Craft Wire: A 2 to 3-inch piece will do for one jigs. This wire is what I use for wire tying jigs.
• Silicone Skirts: I get all my silicone skirt material from Barlow’s Tackle.
• Bass Jigs: Buy pre-made jigs from Barlow’s Tackle, or learn how to make your own!
• Pliers: For tightening the wire wraps.

🔧 Wire Tying Process Recap

Now that you’ve (hopefully) watched the video, here’s a quick recap on the steps for how to tie bass jigs using wire!

1. Start with a 2 to 3-inch piece of craft wire.
2. Place your first layer of silicone onto the wire.
3. Add your bass jig on top of the silicone.
4. Place the second piece of silicone over the jig.
5. Begin making loose wraps with the wire around the jig’s collar. Make 2 to 3 loose wraps.
6. Adjust the material until it’s positioned where you want it.
7. Tighten the wire wraps to lock the material in place.
8. Use pliers to further tighten the wire wraps.
9. Twist the wire by hand to secure everything firmly.
10. Trim the wire and then fold over to finish it off!

❓FAQ

What is the advantage of wire tying over thread tying?

Why use wire instead of thread, you ask? Here’s why in a nutshell:

• Ease of Use: Wire tying is simple and doesn’t require a vise or a bobbin. This makes it perfect for beginner jig makers or jig makers who prefer simplicity!
• Durability: Wire-tied jigs hold up remarkably well. I consider them every bit as reliable as thread-tied jigs (if not more so)!

Can I use wire tying for advanced jig designs?

While wire tying is great for basic jigs, thread tying offers way more versatility and control, especially when materials like hair or feathers enter the equation.

If you’re looking to do more advanced tying, I highly suggest learning to tie with thread. Wire is great for silicone jigs, but thread is simply the bomb for tying with hair and other such materials.

Where can I find supplies for tying jigs?

You can find craft wire and silicone skirts at most craft stores or tackle shops. I prefer to get most of my tackle making supplies at online retailer Barlow’s Tackle.

Is wire tying durable enough for regular use?

Yes! Wire-tied jigs are quite durable and hold up remarkably well, even for fishing in heavy cover.

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