Behind the Bait: Deek’s Jigs
, 2 min reading time
Behind the Bait: Deek’s Jigs
Every tackle maker has one bait that started it all.
For Derek, owner of Deek’s Jigs, it was a casting jig called The Crusher.
His idea; “What if I combined the best parts of all the jigs I already love into one?”
That first custom jig wasn’t built to start a business. It was built to create something Derek wanted to fish himself. Like many independent tackle makers, one idea turned into another, and Deek’s Jigs has grown from that bait forward.
Along with designing tackle, Derek has competed as a co-angler in Major League Fishing Toyota Series events. Spending time on the water and around other anglers continues to shape the way he approaches every new design.
Built by Hand
One thing that stands out about Deek’s Jigs is how involved Derek still is in the process.
His jig heads are poured locally, and many are painted and assembled by Derek himself. His bladed, Cheapskate jigs are hand-tied and built one at a time before making their way into your tackle box.
It’s a hands-on approach that’s becoming harder to find.
Learning Never Stops
Building tackle isn’t about getting everything right the first time.
As Derek puts it:
“Every mistake, or something that didn’t go as planned, is growth. It points me in a direction that helps me improve or teaches me what not to do next time.”
That mindset is one of the reasons independent tackle makers continue to push new ideas forward.
Confidence on the Water
Every angler has a bait they trust.
For Derek, it’s his Roll Around Jig paired with a 3-inch minnow.
And when asked about his favorite place to fish, Derek didn’t hesitate: Lake Guntersville.
Why It Matters
When we asked Derek why supporting independent tackle makers is important, his answer said it best:
“Supporting independent tackle makers helps keep the drive alive. I just love building and knowing that someone caught a fish on a jig that I created.”
That’s what Behind the Baits is all about.
Sharing the stories behind the people who continue building tackle with pride, one bait at a time.
At My Local Tackle Shop, our mission isn't just to connect anglers with great tackle. It's to introduce you to the independent makers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of fishing - one lure at a time.
Every Lure has a story...and we're here for it.
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