If you are getting geared up for the upcoming open water walleye season, you might be getting your components for walleye harnesses organized from last year about now. If you are tired of paying $3.50 to $3.99 per crawler rig, and have never made your own harnesses before, you might shopping for the parts now.
If you are like me, I don’t use the plastic quick change clevises. I want my beads to match up with the blade pattern for maxium effect while trolling or casting. Over the years I have bought beads from a number of sources, Cabela’s, salmon shops on Michigan’s West Coast, big shops, and little shops. I have even gone to and picked up a few packs at JoAnn Fabrics.
For the most variety of colors, and the best prices, I have settled on these three shops/stores. Some carry the same beads as one or all of the others, but they will have a better price. One store might have a color that the others do not offer, so they are included too.
Jann’s Netcraft is located about 20 minutes south of the MI/OH line and is a great source for getting beads. If you feel like taking a ride, make a list from the online store, and take it with you. Not everything online makes it into the small showroom, but all the goodies are stored in the back, and will be brought up front for you.
Frank’s Great Outdoors, and if you have been reading, you already know this is my fav one stop shopping center for walleye fishing. What Frank’s gives me are some of the odds and ends, those special colors that are really hard to find.
DB Fishing, another Michigan resource is one of those true mom and pop shops run out of the garage. This place has a little of everything, for some really good prices. Check out the selection of glow beads in various colors.
Quick guide for the home lure maker. 6mm beads are for trolling harnesses with sizes 5,6 or #7 blades, or #3 and 4 sized Willow blades. If you are using #2,3 or 4 sized blades, drop down to a 5mm bead. These are your weapon rigs, or small blade trolling rigs used primarily during the spring.