DIY: How to make a light assist hook

This blog is about lure fishing and shore jigging. Since I like using my shore casting jigs with assist hooks instead of trebles, I thought that a nice "how to" post about making assist hooks would be appropriate for this blog.

Below is a simple guide to make a size 1/0 assist hook for medium sized (50-70gr.) jigs. For hooks up to size 1/0 I like using light cords (80-100lb) and Owner hooks SJF-41. (flat head instead of an eye)

I hope it helps :)

1. For this assist hook I choose an Owner SJF-41 size 1/0

2. As for assist line a Shout 80lb 

3. Hook and assist line ready to go.

4. We start by splicing the line and taking out the core.

5. A splicing tool is needed for the job.

6. I insert the tool inside the assist line.

7. Decide on the length of the assist cord and take the tool out at the desired point.

8. Using the tool, take the extremity of the cord and pull it inside the point of entry as shown in the pic.

9. Once pulled inside should look like this.

10. Pull it till it comes out at the other side.

11. Cut the excess cord. Now insert the point of the hook  at the desired  length.

12. As shown above.

13. Ready to wrap.

14. Fix the hook with a vise and start wrapping the cord with a fly tying strong thread.

15. I use a fly tying bobbing.

16. Keep wrapping and cut the excess line.

17. After a nice wrap, secure the thread and cut it.

18. Add a small amount of cement to secure the thread.

19. I use a shrink tube for better protection. Also looks better.

20. Insert the tube and heat it with a heat gun or  hair dryer.

21. Ready to go. Job done.

Lure Photo 4: Rapala X-Rap SureSet 06

Major Craft Trapara

The Trapara is the latest addition to the wide family of Major Craft rods.
It is a low-budget trout rod in line with the Basspara (bass fishing) and Solpara series (seabass, eging, rockfish, shore jigging)
The rod, judging by the pictures, is as usually well made with a nice aesthetic and in this case a beautiful brown blank and quality cork.  Probably a "made in China" model, but with great Quality Control and workmanship.
A good price for a rod that seems to be another winner for the Japanese Rod maker.
Looking forward to ordering one.

Official page is here: Major Craft Trapara

Detail of cork handle

Spigot Joint

Fuji Aluminum "O" Oxide Guides.

The Trapara lineup includes 6 different rods for different uses. Blank action is medium.
Casting rage from 0.8 - 3 grams to 1-4 grams. Length is from 6ft to 6.6 ft.

Street price is in the 6.700 and 7.100 YEN range.

Models:
TPS-602SUL 
TPS-632SUL 
TPS-662SUL 
TPS-602UL
TPS-632UL
TPS-662UL

Owner Trebles: ST-46 vs. ST-41

In one of my previous posts I have written about the owner treble hooks and the difference between the series and hook bends. Owner actually has two different designations for their treble. In some models the straight bend hooks has a code that finishes with a "6" and the curved ones with a "1". For instance ST-31/36 and ST-41/46.

Below is a picture that shows the difference.

The ST-46 features round bends and straight Super Needle Points.

The ST-41 features round bends and curved Cutting Points™.


More info here: Owner Treble Hooks (USA)

Say Cheese!! Lure Photo Shooting Vol.1

Just enjoyed a photo session with my new lures.

Lucky Craft Blue Shot

Duel Blanka

Jackall Colt Minnow

Lucky Craft Flat 110

Rapala Max Rap 15

Smith Super ULM

Smith Super ULM Detail

Lucky Craft Yawara 125

Meiho Chemical 2011 Catalog

I have already written my positive impressions about the Japanese made Meiho boxes.
Here is the 2011 catalog available in digital format. It is just amazing to see the wide assortment of boxes they make. The have a box for every need. Just great.
The official Meiho website (in English)