Crawler Harnesses?

[Inlander]

I am contemplating whether to build my own harnesses or just buy them. I only have about 8 different ones right now but want some more variety. If I were to start making my own what is a basic list of supplies I should buy. (?# test line, blade styles, hook size, hook brand, bead sizes, bead colors). Not that I want your secrets but just some basics to get me going. What are the best ways to fish harnesses also. I got a set of planer boards and 10' and 20' jet divers, I figure I could try pulling them on that setup but any other suggestions would be appreciated.

[perchjerker]

Do a search of the archives. We did a few good threads on the subject, tons of great tips!

A quick one to get you started is try Quick Change clevises, so you can pop on a different blade without re-tying the whole thing.

[Bad Finger]

Once you start tying your own harnesses, you will never go back to store bought stuff! It's a great winter passtime. Think I'm over 200 so far.

For starters, here is what I'd get. (Keep in mind I fish Minnesota lakes, not Erie!)

Line - 10-12 lb mono.
Blades - #4 gold and silver.
Beads - 4mm red and chartruse.
Hooks - #2,4,6 gamagatsu.
Clevises - very small folded metal ones.

Tie up a 2 hook harness, with the lead hook one size bigger than the trailing hook. 5 beads all same color, add blade and clevis. Green and silver blade and red with gold blade is a good combo.

That will get you started. There are literally 1000's of different combos.

[Fish'n Fool]

Darn I posted the best site I found to learn to tie harnesses and no one listened lol try www.geocities.com/giamportonem a great site and loaded with all the info you will need JIM

[Bad Finger]

I don't like the knot they show.....never seen that one. There are better one's out there...and a lot easier tie up too.

[(Freespirit) Terry]

Inlander
I think I could help you with tying knots on hooks. Make 20-30 hooks Hr. Call me at 419-634-5216 or LM. I could send you a couple of what I make. If I could help Let me know. I Fish Lake Erie.If I left anything out sorry.
Terry

15# nomo line
#2 Folded Clevises
#3,4,5 Beads
#2,3,4 Diamond blades (Colorado)
#4 Eagle claw hooks

[outdoor fanatic]

Terry,
Are you fishing with Hideo 15# nomo? I knew he was a decent pitcher but had no idea he could fish too.

LOL

[Tom (mich)]

Tying your own harnesses not only is a great winter pastime, but you'll save some serious coin by making your own. I also have two young children who help me pick colors and subsequently "name" the product - sort of like the nick names for salmon spoons.

You'll get a different opinion on harness components for every body of water they're fished on. In general, for open water Great Lakes trolling (Erie, Saginaw) I prefer 15lb Seguar flouro for leader material, and either size 2 or 4 Gamakatsu red hooks.

[Smokin J]

I use the quick change components, tackle budddys, and various size blades. I tie mine with 6lb mono, I want the leader to break before the main line. Could go to 8 or 10 lb now that I have switched to Fireline and Fusion on my baitcasters used for bottom bouncing.
Thanks
Smokin J

[(Freespirit) Terry]

Outdoor fanatic
After I enterd it It jump out and hit me that I spelled it wrong, We all learn by trial and error.lol Just want to get the boat in by Good Friday.
Terry

[Jack G]

Fish'nFool

I noted the web site you referred to so I could look it up the next time I sit down to tie some rigs. The knot does not look like the snell I usually tie but I thought I would tie a few and see how they work out.

For whatever reason I do not find snells real easy to tie but I like them when they are properly constructed. I will try yours when I get a chance.

Appreciated the info.

Jack

[iamwalleye1]

go to www.reelbait.com
They hve a great selection!