How to Rig Tackle for Trout

Trout is one of the most fished species in the world and is a tasty addition to any meal. Anglers love the thrill of hooking a great trout for a powerful fight back to the boat or river's edge. Rigging tackle to catch these fish requires a little know-how and patience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Determine what type of trout to rig for. There are several species of trout, and each requires its own type of lure, spinner or live bait.
2. Dig up or purchase worms for worm rigging. Worms are a favorite food for most fish, and trout are no exception. Large night crawler varieties do very well for trout tackle rigs.
3. Use a deep-water tackle rig for brook trout. Use a 4 to 6-lb. test line with a three-way swivel attached and a 2-oz. weight for quick sinking. Make certain the three-way swivel is of the smaller variety for trout and attaches to the main line with about a 3-foot secondary line.
4. Look for a lure set especially designed for trout fishing. There are hundreds of lure options just for trout. Ask the sporting goods store owner or staff what lures work well in the local area. Even fly-fishing has its own style of flies for catching trout.
5. Rig the tackle for a light fishing expedition. The lighter the rig, the better for trout fishing. The angler does quite a bit of casting and reeling in when fishing for trout. Lighter rigs reduce fatigue and extend the hours spent actually fishing.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a small amount of fishing lure scent. Trout seem to be attracted to scented lures and will strike them more often than unscented rigs.
• Use smaller gauge hooks and even brightly colored plastic worms for river or lake trout.
• Use caution when rigging trout lines and working with sharp hooks.