How to Fish With a Bait Rig
Use a bait rig to fish for a variety of species in a variety of conditions. Unlike artificial lures that mimic the appearance of natural foods, a bait rig uses actual live baits such as worms or minnows to attract larger predator and sport fish. A bait rig can be used in freshwater and saltwater fisheries as a tool to catch a variety of game fish from bass to tuna.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Set up your rig. The basic parts of a bait rig include a hook attached to a length of line and connected to the main line with a swivel, a bobber or strike indicator, and a weight. It's important to match the size of your hook and tackle to the size of live bait you are using. For instance, if you're fishing with small minnows you'll want to attach them to your rig with small hooks (see Reference 1).
-
2
Attach bait. How you attach the bait will depend on what type of bait you are using. The basic principles are that you want your bait to remain attached to your hook but you also want your bait to move around in a lifelike motion to attract a fish. Attach minnows and shiners by running your hook through their lips, their dorsal fin, or their tail (see Reference 1).
-
-
3
Present bait. If you want to fish deeper, add more weight to your rig and let your bait sink to the depth desired. If you want to fish closer to the surface, don't use any weight. Be careful when you cast your bait. Remember the idea is for your live bait to stay alive, so you don't want to beat it up before it gets to the water.
-
4
Wait for a strike and set the hook. Keep a close eye on your bobber or strike indicator and don't hesitate too long to set the hook. Check your live bait often to make sure it is alive and still attached to your hook.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Talk to your local bait shack or tackle shop to help decide which bait to choose for the specific area and fish you want to target.
Check local rules and regulations. In some areas, fishing with live bait is against the law.
