| Live Bait Rigs The five bait rig, the one you definitely should have in your arsenal, is the Lindy Rig. It works with a sliding sinker principle. Instructions in the package show how to rig it properly. When a fish grabs the bait, the line can slide freely through the slip-sinker, giving the fish time to take the bait without feeling resistance. You will probably find it easier to use a live bait rig, rather than a jig, in water deeper than 15 or 20 feet. It's easier to feel the bottom with a heavier weight, but if you have to use a jig heavier than about 3/8 ounce, you will find that fish often spit out the "big lead." A heavier sinker on a Lindy Rig doesn't give you the same disadvantage, because the fish doesn't feel the weight.
The old standby clip-on bobber is still an effective way to present live baits; but a newer design, the slip-bobber, is even more versatile. A slip-bobber allows you to reel your bait right up near the tip of your rod. Then you cast out the rig and let the bait slide down to the depth you have set.
To rig a slip-bobber, first place the bobber stop on your line and tighten. The stop can be a rubber band or Dacron line tied to your monofilament. Then, if you wish, thread a bead onto your line followed by the bobber. Next, tie on the hook and put a small split shot or two 12 to 18 inches up from the hook. |
