How to Make a Lindy Rig for Walleye Fishing

Lindy Rigs are a popular method for walleye fishing. Walleyes are a finicky fish. Live bait such as minnows, leeches and nightcrawlers are the most productive way to entice them to bite. The concept behind a Lindy Rig is to present live bait as naturally as possible. While there are a number of tweaks fishermen can make to enhance the performance of a Lindy Rig, the makeup of the rig is the same. The following steps will help you make a Lindy Rig for walleye fishing.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• 6- to 8-pound fishing line Slip sinker Swivel Hook

Instructions

1. Begin with a 24- to 36-inch section of 6- to 8-pound fishing line. Light line is important in making a Lindy Rig to reduce walleyes' ability to see it.

2. Tie a hook to one end of the line. The size of the hook depends on what live bait you plan to fish with, but size 6 is a good hook to start with. That size is good for fishing with leeches and nightcrawlers, and size 4 or size 2 are better for minnows.

3. Tie a barrel swivel to the other end of the line. You now have the leader of your Lindy Rig.

4. Thread a 1/4- to 1/2-ounce slip sinker on the fishing line spooled on your rod and reel. The weight of the slip sinker depends on the depth of water you plan to fish. As a rule, use the lightest sinker you can that still maintains contact with the bottom.

5. Tie the other end of the barrel swivel to the main fishing line. Once tied, the slip sinker should be above the swivel and move freely.

Tips & Warnings

• In clear water where walleyes can see well, try using a leader longer than 24 or 36 inches. A long fishing rod helps when you set the hook using a Lindy Rig. Use the sharpest hooks you can find.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Walleyes Inc.