Howdy,

We are booksellers, and while my personal collection never goes up for sale, I can recommend a couple of books on the subject.

The first is by Kenn Oberrecht, and is titled:

Angler's Guide to Jigs and Jigging: How To Make and Use the World's Deadliest Lures

A synopsis of the book says:

A virtual encyclopedia for making and using the world's deadliest lures. The design function and adaptation of modern jigs is described in detail as well as a chapter devoted to manufactured jigs. Whether the reader is a pro or amateur he will find countless tips for creating jigs that will make his fishing much more effective and enjoyable.

Powells in Portland, Or. has several used copies available in the $8 - $10 range, or it is available new (softcover) for about $14.95 The book was written in 1982. I can obtain a copy of it for you if you wish.

Another is by Russ Mahoney, and is titled:

THE COMPLETE BOOK OF LURECRAFT. It is not specific to jigs, but covers them as well as numerous other types of lures, etc. It was published by Outdoor Life Books in 1987. It is difficult to find and typically sells in the $20.00 range.

Hope that helps some. Making jigs is not difficult, is a nice pasttime for cold, messy days like we have been having. You might take a look on eBay (or garage sales) and pick up a decent used fly tying vise if you don't already have one. It is a must, IMO.

I have caught many, many fish on homemade jigs...except steelhead....still waiting for my first one (on anything!).

Happy jigging!

Mike