How To Make Feather Fishing Lures: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking for a way to make feather fishing lures that are effective and easy to make? Look no further! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create your own feather fishing lures that are sure to attract a variety of fish.

Making your own feather fishing lures can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only will you save money by creating your own lures, but you’ll also be able to customize them to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, making your own feather fishing lures is a great way to enhance your fishing experience.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making feather fishing lures. From the materials needed to the step-by-step process, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your supplies and let’s get started on making some amazing feather fishing lures!

Ready to take your fishing game to the next level? Keep reading to learn how to make your very own feather fishing lures with this easy-to-follow guide!

Materials Needed For Making Feather Fishing Lures

If you’re looking to create your own feather fishing lures, then you’ll need to make sure you have the right materials on hand. Here are some of the essential materials you’ll need:

Feathers: To create feather fishing lures, you’ll need feathers of various types and colors. You can use the feathers of ducks, geese, turkeys, peacocks, and other birds.

Fishing Hooks: You’ll need to choose the right type of hook for the type of fish you’re targeting. Hooks come in different sizes, shapes, and styles, so make sure you have a good selection on hand.

Thread: You’ll need a strong, durable thread that won’t break easily. Fly-tying thread is a good choice for making feather fishing lures.

Beads and Sequins: Adding beads and sequins to your feather fishing lures can make them more attractive to fish. You can choose beads and sequins in a variety of colors and sizes.

Glue and Varnish: You’ll need a good quality glue and varnish to secure the feathers to the hook and to give the lure a finished look.

Feathers

1. Hackle feathers: These are long, narrow feathers taken from the neck or saddle of a rooster or hen. They are used to add movement to the lure and simulate the movement of an insect in the water.

2. Marabou feathers: These soft, fluffy feathers are taken from the downy undercoating of a turkey or marabou stork. They add bulk and create a pulsating action in the water, which can be very attractive to fish.

3. Pheasant feathers: These are typically used to create the tail of the lure. The long, colorful fibers are perfect for simulating the look of a fish’s natural prey.

4. Duck feathers: These feathers are often used to create a collar or wing on the lure. They can be found in a variety of colors and add movement to the lure in the water.

5. Peacock feathers: These beautiful feathers are used to create an iridescent effect on the lure. The blue and green hues reflect light in the water, making the lure more visible and attractive to fish.

6. Turkey feathers: These feathers are commonly used to create a wing on the lure. They come in a variety of colors and sizes and can be easily trimmed to fit the desired shape.

When selecting feathers for your lures, it’s important to choose ones that are in good condition and have the right texture and color for your needs.

Hook

Choosing the right hook is crucial to making feather fishing lures. The size and shape of the hook will determine how well your lure works in the water. Look for hooks that are sharp and have a strong shank. Long shank hooks are ideal for making feather lures as they provide enough room to tie the feathers.

When selecting a hook size, keep in mind the type of fish you want to catch. Larger fish require larger hooks. Also, consider the depth and location of the water you plan to fish in. Circle hooks are great for deeper waters while J-hooks are more suitable for shallow waters.

• Long shank hooks for tying feathers
• Sharp and strong shank hooks
• Consider the size based on the type of fish
• Circle hooks for deep waters
• J-hooks for shallow waters
• Use stainless steel hooks for their durability and rust-resistant properties

Stainless steel hooks are ideal for feather lures as they are durable and resistant to rust. They may cost a little more, but the investment is worth it if you want a hook that will last for multiple uses.

Step 1: Preparing The Hook

Choose the right size hook: The hook size will depend on the type of fish you are trying to catch. A larger hook is typically used for bigger fish, while a smaller hook is used for smaller fish.

Clean the hook: Use rubbing alcohol or a degreaser to clean the hook thoroughly. This will remove any residue that could affect the adhesion of the materials.

Apply adhesive: Apply a small amount of superglue or epoxy to the shank of the hook. This will help secure the feathers in place.

Attach the weight: If you want to add weight to your lure, you can attach it to the hook now. Use pliers to crimp the weight onto the hook, making sure it is secure.

Choosing The Right Hook Size

The size of the hook you use for your feather fishing lure depends on the type of fish you want to catch. Small hooks are best for catching smaller fish such as bluegill or crappie, while larger hooks are needed for bigger fish like bass or catfish.

When choosing a hook size, consider the size of the feathers you’ll be using. You don’t want the feathers to be so large that they overwhelm the hook, but they should also be big enough to provide enough movement and attraction for the fish.

It’s important to match the size of the hook to the size of the feather. If the hook is too small, it won’t hold the feather securely, and if the hook is too big, the feather won’t move naturally in the water.

Some of the most commonly used hook sizes for feather fishing lures include #6, #8, and #10. These sizes are versatile enough to work for a wide range of fish species and feather sizes.

Cleaning The Hook

Before you start tying the feathers, make sure the hook is clean. Use a hook file to remove any burrs or rough spots that could damage the feathers.

Next, use a small amount of dish soap and warm water to clean the hook. Rinse the hook thoroughly and then dry it with a paper towel.

• Tip: If you plan on using a lot of feathers, it’s a good idea to clean the hook periodically to prevent any buildup that could interfere with the feathers’ movement.
• Tip: If you’re using a hook that has been previously used, it’s important to disinfect it before cleaning it. You can use rubbing alcohol or a solution of bleach and water for this purpose.

Once the hook is clean and dry, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

Adding The Weight

Adding weight to your feather fishing lure is important for getting it to sink properly in the water. The amount of weight you add will depend on the depth of the water you’ll be fishing in and the size of the fish you’re trying to catch.

You can add weight to your lure in a variety of ways, including using split shot weights, bead chains, or even wrapping the hook shank with lead wire. Whatever method you choose, be sure to distribute the weight evenly along the shank of the hook to prevent it from spinning or twisting in the water.

It’s also important to note that adding too much weight can make your lure sink too quickly or make it difficult to cast. Experiment with different weights until you find the right balance for your specific fishing conditions.

Step 2: Tying The Feathers

Prepare the feathers: Cut the feathers to the desired length, removing any excess fluff or fibers. You can use a single feather or multiple feathers depending on the size of the lure.

Tie the feathers onto the hook: Secure the feathers onto the hook using a knot-tying tool or by hand. You can create a variety of patterns by alternating feather colors and lengths. Be sure to tie the feathers tightly so that they do not come loose when fishing.

Trim the feathers: Use scissors to trim any excess feather material that may interfere with the lure’s movement in the water. The feathers should be evenly distributed around the hook to create a balanced and natural-looking lure.

Preparing The Feathers

Before you tie the feathers onto the hook, you need to prepare them properly. First, remove any fluff or down from the stem of the feather. This can be done by running your fingers along the stem or using a pair of scissors to trim it off.

Next, cut the feather down to size. You want the feather to be about the same length as the hook shank, so trim off any excess feather fibers. Finally, tie the feather onto the hook shank, making sure it is secure and centered on the hook.

Repeat this process with additional feathers, tying them on one at a time until you have the desired amount of feathers for your lure.

Tying The Feathers To The Hook

After selecting the right feathers and preparing them, it’s time to tie them to the hook. Start by holding the feathers against the hook, with the shiny side facing towards you.

Using a strong thread, wrap it around the base of the feathers and the hook shank several times to secure them in place. Then, move the thread towards the hook eye and tie a knot to finish off the fly.

Trim any excess thread and feathers, leaving a neat and tidy fly ready for fishing.

Adding More Feathers

Once you’ve tied the first set of feathers onto the hook, you can continue adding more feathers to create a fuller and more attractive fly. Make sure to choose feathers of different colors and sizes to add more dimension to your fly.

When adding more feathers, it’s important to be mindful of the balance and symmetry of your fly. Don’t add too many feathers on one side, as it will cause the fly to spin when cast.

Another important consideration is the weight of your fly. The more feathers you add, the heavier your fly will become. Make sure to adjust the weight accordingly by adding or removing weight to the leader.

Finally, when you’re satisfied with the look and weight of your fly, give it a few test casts to ensure that it moves through the air smoothly and doesn’t spin. With a little practice, you’ll be able to tie beautiful and effective feather flies for your next fishing trip.

Step 3: Adding Extra Attraction

Once you have tied on the feathers to the hook, it’s time to add some extra attraction to your fly. This will help to entice fish to bite and increase your chances of catching something.

One popular way to add extra attraction is to tie on a flashabou material. This reflective material catches the light and creates a shimmering effect that can attract fish from a distance.

Another way to add attraction is to tie on a small amount of dubbing material. This fuzzy material can mimic the appearance of an insect’s body or legs, adding a more realistic look to your fly.

Finally, you can add a bead or two to your fly to give it some weight and to add some extra flash. Beads come in a variety of colors and sizes, so you can customize your fly to match the hatch or to try something completely different.

Adding Beads or Sequins

Adding beads or sequins to your fishing lure can help make it more attractive to fish. This is especially true for fish that are attracted to shiny or sparkly objects. To add beads or sequins, you will need to thread them onto your fishing line before tying your hook.

When choosing beads or sequins, look for ones that are lightweight and won’t weigh down your lure. You can also experiment with different colors and sizes to see what works best for the fish in your area.

To add beads or sequins, simply thread them onto your line, then tie your hook as you normally would. You can also use a small plastic bead or sequin as a spacer between your weight and your hook to help keep your hook from tangling in your line.

Using UV Resin

UV resin is a great option for adding extra attraction to your fly. This type of resin cures quickly under ultraviolet light, so it’s ideal for adding small details like eyes or a shellback to your fly. Here’s how to use it:

Step 1: First, prepare your work area. Lay down some newspaper or plastic to protect your table or bench.

Step 2: Mix a small amount of UV resin according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A little bit goes a long way, so you don’t need to mix up too much.

Step 3: Use a toothpick or small brush to apply the resin to the areas of the fly where you want to add extra attraction. Be sure to apply it evenly and avoid drips or pooling.

Step 4: Once you’re satisfied with your application, use a UV light to cure the resin. Hold the light about an inch away from the fly and move it around to ensure all areas of the resin are cured. The resin should cure in just a few seconds.

UV resin is a great way to add extra detail and attraction to your fly. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and work in a well-ventilated area. With a little practice, you’ll be adding eyes, shellbacks, and other details to your flies in no time!

Step 4: Applying A Protective Coating

Once you have completed your fly tying masterpiece, it is important to apply a protective coating to ensure it lasts. Protective coatings such as epoxy, varnish, or lacquer can provide a layer of protection against the elements and help prevent damage to your fly.

Before applying the coating, make sure your fly is clean and dry. You can use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any dust or debris. Applying the coating is best done with a small brush, ensuring you cover the entire surface of the fly. Be sure to follow the instructions on the coating product for the best results.

After applying the coating, allow the fly to dry completely before handling it. Depending on the coating used, this can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight. Once dry, you can add any final touches or attachments such as eyes or legs if desired.

Choosing The Right Coating

Choosing the right coating is essential to ensure that your fly lasts as long as possible. There are several different types of coatings that you can use, including epoxy, polyurethane, and acrylic. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the right one for your specific needs.

Epoxy: Epoxy is a popular choice for coating fishing flies because it is incredibly strong and durable. It is also relatively easy to work with and can be applied in a thin layer, which helps to maintain the fly’s shape and profile. However, epoxy can be difficult to apply evenly and can add weight to the fly, which may affect its performance in the water.

Polyurethane: Polyurethane is another popular choice for coating fishing flies. It is extremely durable and flexible, which makes it ideal for use on flies that will be fished in heavy cover or in fast-moving water. Polyurethane is also relatively easy to apply and can be used to create a glossy or matte finish, depending on your preferences.

Applying The Coating

Step 1: Before applying the coating, make sure the fly is clean and dry. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated during the tying process.

Step 2: There are several types of coatings available, including epoxy, lacquer, and varnish. Choose the one that best suits your needs. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and applying the coating.

Step 3: Apply the coating in a well-ventilated area. Using a small brush or applicator, carefully coat the entire fly, making sure to cover all of the materials. Be sure to apply the coating evenly and avoid creating any bubbles.

Step 5: Testing Your Feather Fishing Lures

Cast: Once you have finished creating your feather fishing lure, it’s time to put it to the test. Start by casting it into the water and see how it performs.

Retrieve: Try different retrieval techniques, such as a slow or fast retrieve, and see which one works best for your lure.

Observe: Pay attention to the behavior of the fish around your lure. Are they attracted to it? Are they biting it?

Adjust: Based on your observations, adjust your technique or the lure itself. Maybe adding more feathers or changing the color can make a difference in attracting fish.

Testing In Different Waters

It is essential to test your feather fishing lures in different waters to see how they perform. Different types of fish respond differently to different lures, so it is important to test them in various bodies of water to get a feel for how they behave. Depth, current, and temperature are all factors that can affect how well your lure works, so testing in different environments will help you get a better understanding of which situations your lure is most effective in.

Make sure to keep detailed records of each test, including the date, location, and any weather conditions. This will help you identify patterns and trends in how well your lure performs, as well as give you a better understanding of which fish are most attracted to your lure.

Adjusting The Lure As Needed

After testing your feather fishing lure, you may find that it isn’t quite attracting the fish as much as you had hoped. Don’t worry, there are several adjustments you can make to improve its effectiveness.

Change the feather colors: Try using different colors of feathers to see which ones work best in the specific fishing spot. You can also experiment with different sizes and shapes of feathers.

Adjust the weight: If your lure isn’t sinking fast enough, you may need to add some weight to it. Conversely, if it’s sinking too quickly, you can remove some weight or use a lighter hook.

Try different attractors: If beads or sequins aren’t working, you can try adding a spinner or using a different type of attractor, such as a flasher or a wobbler.

Change the rigging: If your lure isn’t swimming correctly, you can experiment with different types of rigging. For example, you can try tying the feathers at different angles or adding a swivel to the line.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully made your own feather fishing lures. Not only is it an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but it also allows you to customize your lures to your specific fishing needs.

Remember to experiment with different feathers, colors, and coatings to find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things.

With your new feather fishing lures, you’ll be able to attract fish with the realistic and natural motion of the feathers. So get out there and catch some fish!

Thank you for reading our guide on how to make feather fishing lures. We hope it was helpful and informative. Happy fishing!

Try Making Your Own Feather Fishing Lures

Now that you know the steps involved in making feather fishing lures, why not try making your own?

Customizing your lures is not only fun but also allows you to experiment with different materials and colors to attract different fish species. You can also save money by making your own lures instead of buying expensive ones from the store.

With some practice and patience, you can create feather fishing lures that are unique, effective, and perfect for your fishing needs. So, gather your materials and get started on your new fishing adventure!

Experiment With Different Feather Types

Don’t limit yourself to just one type of feather when making your own fishing lures. Experimenting with different feather types can yield surprising results. Try using wild turkey feathers, which are larger and have a bolder appearance, or pheasant feathers, which have a more subtle coloration.

Another option is to try using dyed feathers, which can add a unique and eye-catching touch to your lures. Some popular colors for dyed feathers include chartreuse, pink, and orange.

Enjoy Your Fishing With Homemade Lures

Now that you have created your own feather fishing lures, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, using homemade lures can be a rewarding and fun experience.

Not only do homemade lures allow you to customize your fishing gear, but they can also be a more sustainable and eco-friendly option.

So, grab your gear and head out to your favorite fishing spot to test out your new feather lures. You never know what you might catch!

Frequently Asked Questions