Fishing rigs are the combination of hooks, sinkers, snaps and swivels that you add to the end of your fishing line. You can also add a bobber or cork, or in some cases, a second hook.
Whether working on a fishing pole setup for beginners or needing to know how to set up a fishing rod for lake fishing, learning which rigs work best for the environment and conditions is an essential part of learning how to fish.
Each type of rig has a different purpose, and some rigs may have several names. Other rigs work well for specific species and are referred to as bass rigs, flounder rigs or catfish rigs. You can also learn how to set up fishing rigs that can be used for multiple species. To get started, grab your rod and reel, some extra line and a variety of hooks, sinkers, and swivels. If you’re not familiar with your options in this department, check out our terminal tackle page for more details.
Tip: To create the rigs below, you will need to attach your terminal tackle using fishing knots. A standard fishing knot like the improved clinch knot or the uni knot will work.
First things first, there is more to creating fishing rigs than knowing how to put a sinker on a fishing line. But just because you can tie a lot of different things to a line, doesn't mean that making a fishing rig should be complicated. Most standard rigs are designed rather simply and are used for specific fishing techniques.
For still fishing, beginner anglers should try the basic bobber rig. These are very simple rigs, and the bobber will show you when a fish is biting your bait. This rig can be used when fishing for panfish, crappie, perch or any other small fish. Follow these steps to make a basic bobber rig:
For bottom fishing, anglers should try the sliding sinker bottom rig also known as the Carolina rig or Fishdinder rig. It is a popular, versatile rig and is an effective way to fish bait off the bottom, both from shore and while drifting in a boat. These fishing rigs can be used as catfish rigs, flounder rigs, trout rigs or for fishing for redfish or striped bass.
The presentation of the rig allows the sinker to rest on the bottom of the river or in the surf with the bait suspended above. This feature prevents the fish from feeling the weight as the line passes through the sinker and keeps it from getting hung up on rocks or weeds.
Follow these steps to make a sliding sinker rig:
Another rig that works for bottom fishing is the 3-way rig (it can also be used when fishing from shore in current). These rigs are typically considered catfish rigs and is frequently used in surf fishing as well. They are designed to keep your bait off the bottom by using a 3-way swivel. The idea is that when the three-way fishing rig is dropped, drifted or trolled, the lure or bait on the longer piece of leader hovers just over the bottom.
Follow these steps to make a 3-way rig:
A two-hook bottom rig also know as spreader rigs is probably the most versatile of all fishing rigs. Two-hook bottom rigs can be used as flounder rigs or really to catch everything from panfish to giant grouper. This rig is commonly pre-made and sold at tackle shops, but you can tie your own. If you choose to purchase, you will notice that the rigs made with spreader bars instead of fishing line, this can help prevent your hooks from getting tangled.
Follow these steps to make a two-hook bottom rig for smaller fish:
How to make a two-hook bottom rig for larger fish:
Tip: When using two-hook bottom rigs as flounder rigs, consider adding a spinner blade or beads for flash to help attract the fish.
A popping cork is a fishing rig that preys on a fish's keen sense of sound and features a piece of terminal tackle called a popping cork. A popping cork can be purchased at most tackle retailers and is made up of a short piece of stiff wire threaded through a foam or cork float and a couple of metal or plastic beads. These are some of the best fishing rigs for redfish or they can be used as trout rigs for speckled trout.
Follow these steps to create a popping cork rig:
Some rigs are slightly more specialized and are used for specific situations like catching bait. Here is one to know:
Sabiki Rigs are designed to catch baitfish and consist of multiple tiny hooks. These tiny hooks are then rigged with feathers, foil, or tiny pieces of natural bait. Baitfish feed on plankton, so a Sabiki Rig should imitate this tiny baitfish food and easily fit into their modest mouths.
Sabiki Rigs often come pre-made with 4-10 hooks and can be purchased at most tackle shops. While you can make your own, they are relatively inexpensive, and are difficult to keep untangled when stored.
Whether you are creating Sabiki Rigs, catfish rigs, trout rigs, or any other rigs, make sure you secure all your terminal tackle tightly to ensure the rig does not come loose when you have fish on the end of your line.
Now that you know how to set up fishing rigs, you are ready to begin casting. Learn more.
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