How to Catch Tilapia on a Fishing Pole

Use a simple rig when fishing for tilapia.

Tilapia are freshwater game fish that are commonly found in slower moving or still waters, including ponds, lakes and some rivers. Typically found in more tropical zones such as South America, tilapia have become abundant in the Orlando, Florida, region and can also be found in warm power supply lakes in many parts of the U.S. Rigging for tilapia can be done in much the same manner as when fishing for blue gill, crappie and other pan-fish.

Things You'll Need

• Light to medium spinning rod with matched reel
• 6 to 8 pound test monofilament fishing line
• Round clip on float
• Crimp on lead weight
• Pliers
• Size 6 bait holder hook
• Earthworm
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Tie a size 6 bait holder hook to the end of the main fishing line with a palomar knot. Moisten the knot, pull tight and trim excess line with scissors.

2. Measure two feet up the line from the hook and attach a round bobber float. Push the button on top of the float down to expose the small brass hook. Place the hook around the line and release to attach the bobber to the line.

3. Attach a crimp on the weight six inches below the bobber float. Place the line in the slit of the weight and crimp the weight tightly around the line with pliers.

4. Place an earthworm on the hook. Insert the point of the hook through the worm two times to hold it in place and still present the worm naturally.

5. Cast the rig into the water where tilapia are thought to be located. Allow the bait to settle in the water below the bobber float.

6. Leave the rig motionless in the water until a tilapia strikes the worm. Raise the rod tip slightly to set the hook and reel down on the line. Maintain a tight line while playing and reeling in the fish.

References

• Learning How to Fish: Rigs
• Animated Knots by Grog: Palomar Knot

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish