Here we will discuss how to modify your crankbaits by adding a feathered treble to increase your chances of catching more fish. Adding a teaser tail to your bait can be a game-changer, especially when fish are being finicky. We will cover the materials you need, the step-by-step process of tying the feathered trailer, and why it is worth the effort.
Materials Needed for Feathered Treble
To tie a feathered trailer, you will need the following materials:
1 Crankbaits with treble hooks
2 Feathers (Hackle) in various colors
3 Flashabou or similar flash material
4 Gel spun poly or similar thin line
5 Bobbin and thread
6 Scissors
7 BMC Redline hooks (optional)
8 Solarez or similar UV resin
9 UV light
Why Use a Feathered Treble?
A feathered trailer can be a game-changer when fish are being finicky. It adds a small, flashy movement to your bait, which can attract the attention of predators like smallmouth bass or walleye. When a crankbait is paused in the water, the feathered trailer provides a subtle movement that can entice fish to strike. It can be especially effective when using suspending crankbaits. 
Step-by-Step Process
Here is a step-by-step process for adding a feathered trailer to your crankbaits:
1 Start by removing the factory hook from your crankbait. If desired, you can replace it with a BMC Redline hook for better hook penetration.
2 Attach your bobbin with the desired thread color to your fly tying vice. Alternatively, you can use a bobbin with different thread colors for easy switching.
3 Begin by wrapping the thread around the hook shank, securing it in place with a half hitch.
4 Take two strands of Flashabou or similar flash material and lay them over the treble hook, one facing forward and one facing backward. Wrap the thread around the flash material to secure it in place.
5 Fold the flash material back over the treble hook and wrap the thread around it again to secure it.
6 Repeat this process for each treble hook on your crankbait.
7 Now, it’s time to add the feathers. Take a feather (hackle) and lay it on the shank of the hook, with the natural curve of the feather facing upward.
8 Begin wrapping the thread around the feather, securing it in place. Make sure to leave the feather long for now, as you can trim it later to your desired length.
9 Repeat this process for each treble hook, adding feathers of different colors if desired.
10 Once all the feathers are tied in place, go back with your thread and cover up any exposed feather material.
11 Trim the flashabou material to your desired length, just past the feathers. 12. Apply a small amount of Solarez or similar UV resin to the thread wraps. This will help secure the feathers and add durability to the trailer.
12 Use a UV light to cure the resin. Hold the light over the trailer for about 15 seconds to ensure it sets properly.
13 Trim any excess thread or feather material to create a clean finish.
14 Repeat the process for each crankbait you want to modify, using different colors and feather combinations for variety.
Tips and Recommendations
Here are some tips and recommendations to keep in mind when tying feathered trailers:
1 Use high-quality materials: Invest in good-quality feathers, flash material, and hooks. This will ensure that your trailers are durable and effective.
2 Limit your color selection: It can be tempting to tie trailers in every color imaginable, but it’s best to start with just a few colors. This will help you stay organized and avoid overwhelming yourself.
3 Keep your workspace organized: Use a plastic utility box or tackle box to store your tied trailers. This will help keep your materials organized and prevent a cluttered workspace.
4 Practice makes perfect: If you’re new to tying feathered trailers, don’t get discouraged if your first attempts don’t turn out perfectly. Like any skill, practice will improve your technique and result in better-looking trailers.
5 Upgrade your hooks: Consider upgrading to BMC Redline hooks or other premium hooks. Sharp hooks are essential for hooking finicky fish, and they can make a significant difference in your success rate.
Conclusion
Adding a feathered trailer to your crankbaits can be a fun and effective way to increase your chances of catching more fish. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this article and using high-quality materials, you can create trailers that look professional and attract fish. Remember to limit your color selection, keep your workspace organized, and practice your technique. With time and experience, you’ll be able to tie feather ed trailers with ease and confidence. So, next time you’re out on the water and the fish are being finicky, give a feathered trailer a try. You might just find that it’s the secret weapon you’ve been missing.
A feathered trailer can be a game-changer when fish are being finicky. It adds a small, flashy movement to your bait, which can attract the attention of predators like smallmouth bass or walleye. When a crankbait is paused in the water, the feathered trailer provides a subtle movement that can entice fish to strike. It can be especially effective when using suspending crankbaits. This video covers the materials you need, the step-by-step process of tying the feathered trailer, and why it is worth the effort.
