Modifying Bucktails for Muskie Fishing Success

Musky wizard Jeremy Smith shares a simple and easy method for modifying bucktails.

Modifying Bucktails for Muskie Fishing Success

Bucktails are high-efficiency coverage, high-percentage hooking lures for muskies. But all bucktails are not equal, nor does any one model excel in all situations. Here’s a simple way to modify bucktails, adapting different combinations of blade type, number, size and color; clevis(es); body material and color; hook(s); plus beads, spacers and weights, to adapt or create lures whose size, speed and characteristics best match the prevailing conditions.

One of the most important aspects of choosing a bucktail for muskie fishing is the blade that is attached to it. In this article, I will discuss the different types of blades that are commonly used and how you can modify your bucktails to suit your fishing needs.

Choosing the Right Blade

When it comes to speed, the French blade is a great option. It starts quickly and engages fast, making it ideal for those who prefer an ultra-fast retrieve. If you’re looking for a blade that offers both speed and lift, the fluted Indiana blade is a fantastic choice. It provides a slow vibration and generates a lot of lift, creating a vortex effect in the water. Another option is the double Colorado blade, which offers even more lift and vibration. Whether you choose a single or double Colorado blade, you can expect a lot of action and attraction from these blades.

Tinkering with Bucktails

Many muskie fishermen enjoy experimenting with different styles of blades and bodies. The V ibe Rax family of bucktails from Blue Fox offers the perfect opportunity to tinker with your baits and switch up the blades and bodies to suit your preferences. With the classic Blue Fox Super Vibrax, you can easily switch from a fluted Indiana blade to a French blade and change body styles by using split ring pliers. This allows you to create different color combinations and customize your bait to match the conditions and the fish’s preferences.

Modifying Bucktails

If you want to make modifications to your bucktails, it’s a relatively simple process. All you need are a few tools and some wire. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to modify your bucktails:

1. Make a loop in the wire: Using round nose pliers, make a loop in the wire by rolling it around the nose of the pliers until it forms a 90-degree angle from the shank.
2. Clip the tag of the wire: Use wire cutters to clip the tag of the wire, being careful to protect your eyes.
3. Add the hook: Use split ring pliers to add the hook to the wire loop you just created.
4. Add shrink tubing: Slide a piece of shrink tubing down the shank of the wire, running it over the hook and the split ring. Position it just above the loop in the wire.
5. Apply heat to shrink tubing: Use a lighter or heat gun to apply heat to the shrink tubing, causing it to tighten around the hook and split ring.
6. Assemble the bait: Slide a heavy egg sinker onto the wire, followed by the fly body. Reassemble the Vibe Rax bail system, including the bell ringer, brass sleeve, and Vibe Rax bell. Add the brass stoppers on top.
7. Add the clevises and blades: Stack the clevises on top of each other and add the blades onto each clevis. Place the clevis ha’s over the top to secure the blades in place.
8. Close the loop: Bend the loop at the top of the wire back and squeeze it to form a 90-degree angle. Wrap the wire around the shank to secure the loop in place.
9. Trim the tag: Use wire cutters to trim the tag of the wire, ensuring a clean finish.

By following these steps, you can easily modify your bucktails to create custom baits for different fishing situations. Whether you want to change the blade style, body color, or blade combination, this method allows you to experiment and find what works best for you.

Conclusion

Modifying bucktails is a great way to customize your baits and increase your chances of success in muskie fishing. By choosing the right blade and making simple modifications, you can create baits that are tailored to the conditions and the fish’s preferences. The Vibe Rax family of bucktails from Blue Fox offers the flexibility to tinker with your baits and switch up the blades and bodies easily. With a few tools and some wire, you can create endless color combinations and experiment with different blade styles. So, grab your split ring pliers and get ready to modify your bucktails for a truly personalized fishing experience.