Crafting Wedding Ring Lures: A Beginner's Guide

Wedding ring lures are a classic, effective lure for catching a variety of fish species, including kokanee, trout, walleye, and perch. They get their name from the sparkly bead in the middle of the lure, resembling a diamond on a wedding ring. These lures are available in a range of sizes, shapes, colours, hook styles, and blade finishes. Making your own wedding ring lures is a cost-effective option for fishermen, as the components are much cheaper than pre-built versions. The process involves cutting a leader, tying on hooks, sliding on beads, and adding a spinner blade.

Choosing the right hook

Wedding ring lures are a classic, effective lure for catching a variety of fish species, including kokanee, trout, perch, and walleye. When creating your own wedding ring lures, choosing the right hook is essential. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the hook for your lure:

Type of Hook

The first step is to decide on the type of hook you want to use. The two most common types are single hooks and treble hooks. Single hooks are simple and straightforward, with one point and barb. Treble hooks, on the other hand, have three points and barbs, making them ideal for securing larger fish. You can also combine these two types of hooks to create a more versatile lure.

Size of Hook

The size of the hook will depend on the type of fish you are targeting. For smaller fish like trout and kokanee, opt for smaller hooks in the 1 to 1.5-inch range. If you're going after larger game fish like walleye, go for a bigger hook, around 2 inches or more. The hook size should be proportional to the size of the fish's mouth to ensure a solid hook-up.

Hook Sharpness

A sharp hook is crucial for effective fishing. Look for hooks that are described as "extra sharp" or "ultra-sharp." This will ensure that the hook penetrates the fish's mouth easily and securely, increasing your chances of landing the fish. Dull hooks can result in missed opportunities and injured fish that get away.

Hook Material

The material of the hook is also important. Stainless steel hooks are a popular choice due to their corrosion resistance and durability. They are strong enough to withstand the fight of larger fish and won't easily rust or corrode over time. Other materials, such as high-carbon steel or plated metal, may also be used, but be sure to consider the water conditions and the level of maintenance you're willing to put in.

Hook Color

While the color of the hook may not seem as important as its functionality, it can play a role in attracting fish. Some wedding ring lures feature colorful hooks, such as red or silver, that can add a bit of flash and attract fish. Consider the water conditions and the natural prey of the fish you're targeting when choosing a hook color.

Hook Brand and Quality

Finally, consider the brand and quality of the hooks you're choosing. Look for reputable brands known for their fishing equipment, as they are more likely to offer durable, well-crafted hooks. Higher-quality hooks may cost a bit more, but they will last longer and improve your chances of success on the water.

In summary, when creating your own wedding ring lures, carefully consider the type, size, sharpness, material, color, and brand of the hooks you use. Each of these factors will play a role in the effectiveness of your lures, so choose wisely based on the type of fish you're targeting and the specific fishing conditions you'll be facing.

Selecting the correct blade

When selecting the correct blade for your wedding ring lure, there are several options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here is a detailed guide to help you make the right choice:

Colorado Blades

Colorado blades are a preferred choice for many fishermen. They are known for their ability to provide a smooth and stable rotation, which creates an enticing presentation in the water. Colorado blades are commonly available on Amazon and eBay, making them easily accessible for your lure-making needs.

Indiana Blades

Indiana blades, as the name suggests, are a type of blade that originated in Indiana. These blades are known for producing a lot of vibration and flash when used in the water. This added attraction can be particularly enticing to fish, making it a great choice for your wedding ring lure. Indiana blades can also be found on Amazon and eBay.

Willow Blades

Willow blades are another option to consider. They have a unique shape that resembles a willow leaf, hence their name. Willow blades provide a fast and erratic action in the water, which can be particularly effective for attracting fish. You can find these blades on Amazon and eBay as well.

Dakota Blades

If you're looking for something a little different, Dakota blades are a great choice. They offer a distinct shape and can be a great alternative to traditional spinner blades. Dakota blades are typically available on eBay.

Smile Blades

Smile blades, also known as mylar smile blades, offer a unique and innovative design. They are often made of mylar material and provide a different action compared to traditional metal blades. Smile blades are readily available on Amazon and eBay, making them a convenient choice for your wedding ring lure.

When selecting the correct blade, consider factors such as the type of fish you're targeting, the water conditions, and your personal preferences. Each blade has its own advantages, so feel free to experiment with different options to find the most effective combination for your fishing needs.

Using the right colour lure

Wedding Ring lures are a classic and effective lure for several species, including kokanee and trout. There are endless colour combinations to choose from when creating your own lure.

When selecting the right colour lure, it is important to consider the location and time of year. Different colours may be more effective in different environments and conditions. For example, fluorescent red bead stacks and a clear rondelle work well together.

It is also beneficial to experiment with different colour combinations and take note of your catches. Over time, you will start to notice patterns and can adjust your lure colours accordingly.

Additionally, the colour of the spinner blade is an important consideration. Colorado-style spinner blades are a popular choice, but other styles such as Mylar smile blades can also be effective. The size and colour of the blade can be varied to create different effects.

Adding bait

When the law allows, adding bait to your wedding ring lure can be an effective way to attract fish. Here are some tips for adding bait:

• Use bits of nightcrawler, mealworms, or corn as bait. These options are known to attract fish.
• Ensure you have a swivel in your line when using bait, as it will likely cause the line to twist.
• Add scent liberally to the lure to further increase its attractiveness to fish.
• Consider using a dodger or pop gear in conjunction with your baited lure. A dodger will add flash and action to your rig, while pop gear creates extra noise and flash without impacting the lure's performance.
• When using a dodger, opt for a shorter leader (12" to 14"), and for pop gear, use a longer leader (20" to 24").

Remember to check local regulations before adding bait to your wedding ring lure, as it may not be permitted in certain areas.

Trolling techniques

• Rod Selection: Choose a rod that suits your fishing setup. If you're fishing from a boat, kayak, or pontoon boat, consider using a baitcasting reel with a line counter. This will allow you to fish at various depths and handle heavier weights if needed.
• Line Setup: Use a strong leader line, such as a 10-15 pound test fluorocarbon line, to avoid line twist caused by the spinning blade. Tie a single or treble hook to the end of the line, or create a combination of hooks using an egg loop knot.
• Lure Customization: Express your creativity by choosing different bead colours and sizes. The "wedding ring" bead, or rondelle bead, is typically placed in the middle, surrounded by other beads or bead stacks. You can find great deals on beads on Amazon, eBay, or specialty fishing stores.
• Spinner Blade Selection: Choose a spinner blade style that suits your preferences. Colorado, Indiana, Willow, Dakota, and Smile blades are all popular options. Smile blades are mylar blades that don't require a clevis for attachment. If using a metal blade, use a clevis and consider adding a small bead between the clevis and bead stack to reduce friction.
• Trolling Techniques: Wedding ring lures are most effective when trolled due to their lightweight and low drag. Here are some specific trolling techniques to try:
• In-line Weight Trolling: Use a small crescent or sliding sinker 2-3 feet up the line from the lure to achieve greater depth. The more weight you add, the deeper the lure will go.
• Lead-core Line: Use a lead-core fishing line to provide weight and achieve better depth control. However, lead-core lines are stiff, difficult to tie, visible underwater, and unsuitable for casting. You will need to attach a monofilament leader to the lead-core mainline.
• Downrigger: This is the best method for depth control, allowing you to accurately reach your desired depth. However, it requires additional cost, maintenance, and setup time.
• Dodgers and Flashers: To attract more fish, consider trolling your wedding ring lure behind a dodger or flasher. Dodgers are best for slower trolling speeds and create a more subtle presentation, while flashers are designed for faster trolling and provide more motion.
• Bait and Scent: When the law allows, enhance your wedding ring lure by adding bait and scent. Bits of nightcrawler, mealworms, corn, or scented power eggs can be effective attractants. Remember to use a swivel in your line when using bait to prevent line twist.

Frequently asked questions