How to Rig a Plastic Worm Texas Style

Soft plastic baits are one of the most diverse tackle options for anglers. They crossover from freshwater to saltwater and come in all shapes, sizes, colors, styles, and even, scents. Since this tackle can be used in numerous environments to target virtually any fish species on the planet, you can imagine anglers have mastered how to rig a plastic worm to accommodate almost any scenario. For the sake of simplicity, we’ll cover one of the most common plastic worm techniques: The Texas Rig.

The Texas Rig is characterized by it’s weedless nature and is the basis for many variations of plastic worm techniques such as the drop shot rig or Carolina rig. If you’re looking to learn how to rig a plastic worm Texas-style, you’re in the right place. Here’s a quick how-to guide in seven easy steps.

What you'll need

• Soft plastic bait
• Offset worm hook

How to Rig a Plastic Worm Texas Style

Begin with your hook already tied to your leader or line.

1. Insert the hook point into the tip of the worm, piercing in about a quarter inch.
2. Exit the hook through the belly of the worm.
3. Pull the hook through until the tip of the worm reaches the eye of the hook.
4. Twist the hook 180 degrees so that the point is now facing the worm body.
5. The next step is critical. You will be embedding the hook tip into the worm so that only the hook shaft is exposed and the bait is considered weedless. The goal is to insert the hook into the right part of the worm so that it appears straight and natural-looking.
6. Hold the worm upright, against the side of the hook; the bottom of the hook is a reference line for the final position of the hook.
7. Penetrate the worm slightly below the reference line, embedding the hook tip into the belly and angling up toward the worm tip.
8. Ensure the hook is embedded near the edge, but not exposed.

If the worm isn’t perfectly straight, you may need to adjust the entry point of the hook. You can also use a weighted worm hook or slide a weight on the line for added versatility and sinking power. The Texas method works for rigging soft plastic baits of all styles. To top off your Texas Rig, be sure you know a few sturdy line-to-hook knots.