Ultra Minnow

[Tom Ciuba]

Does anybody know if a " OUT OF THE PACKAGE " 8/0 or smaller hook fits the ultra minnow 5-6 & 8 ounce jig WITHOUT modifying the mold.
Make and model number of hook would be a great help.
THANKS, Tom

[frugalfisherman]

8/0 maybe. Anything else I think you have to modify the mold. Check out the previous post on the subject for ideas.

[tropics]

Tom I just checked Do-it they call for a 9/0, 91715 I believe that is the Mustad hook.

I have the smaller mold 2,3,4 oz. Mine calls for the 8/0 hook. I do not like that big hook in my jigs. So instead of modifying the mold I open the eye to fit the mold.
You will get some lead on the hook eye that peals right off, this is due to the wire diameter.
I use 5/0, 6/0 in my jigs. Here is a pic showing a 3oz and 4oz. with the 3 oz. having a 5/0 hook, the 4/0 has a 6/0 hook. I placed a 7/0 in between them to show how the hook sits, closer to the body with the smaller hook.

Hope this helps.

Opening the eyes I use this method
http://www.njfishing.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30946

[PALMERS TACKLE]

Ok I'm sure this will get arguments for and against--But in my opinion and how i design all the jigs (Bucktails) in my lineup.
The balance is the key to catching and presenting a jig to a fluke.
The hook size to weight ratio is very important!
Too small and the jig is too head heavy and doesn't present right , too long and the weight transfer will affect movement and the jigs erratic nature YOU WANT when quick twitching/jigging to get a fluke to bite. I have spent years trying to find the best hook to weight size and feel i have it figured out.
Fluke have large mouths and can inhale a 9/0 hook no problem.....
i have seen many shorty fish nail jigs with up to 9/0 hooks
its about how you present and balance
IMHO

[The Sinker Man]

You will never get the proper balance on the jig unless you use just the bucktail without any additions added to it. I don't care what size hook you use as soon as you add a trailer hook, piece of squid , gulp or anything else you make the bucktail back heavy...
Not an argument Tony, I'm sure that you have spent alot of time and effort to make a good bucktail...
I don't bucktail, but if I did I would probably pick up a few of Palmers bucktails at one of the sponsor shops that carry them.

[tropics]

You will never get the proper balance on the jig unless you use just the bucktail without any additions added to it. I don't care what size hook you use as soon as you add a trailer hook, piece of squid , gulp or anything else you make the bucktail back heavy...
Not an argument Tony, I'm sure that you have spent alot of time and effort to make a good bucktail...
I don't bucktail, but if I did I would probably pick up a few of Palmers bucktails at one of the sponsor shops that carry them.

Thank You Sam I may be new to making BTs 35 years and I do use gulp,squid,strip baits so I am guilty of offsetting the balance of the perfect jig. but IMHO THEY WORK:D