Need help choosing between the Carolina rig vs. Texas rig? Although they look similar, each one works in different situations. For example, Carolina rigs are for shallow waters, while Texas rigs are best for deep waters. And the differences don’t stop there. In this article, we’re pitting the Carolina rig vs. Texas rig against each other so you can learn their differences and ultimately decide which is better for you. 

Carolina Rig Vs. Texas Rig: What Are the Differences?

Location

If you are bass fishing in areas with heavy currents, reach for a Carolina rig. This type of rig uses a heavier sinker that can withstand strong currents. That is not to say that it remains still in the water. It has enough movement to make the soft plastic lure enticing for bass to bite. 

You can also use a Carolina rig in open water areas like big lakes and dams, as it casts longer.

Texas rig is best for areas with thick vegetation. Unlike the Carolina rig, it uses a lighter weight, allowing your bait to move through underwater foilage like weeds without snagging.  

Water Depth

Texas rig works best in calm and shallow waters because it uses a lighter weight. Don’t worry, though. Fish are usually slow in shallow waters and will have enough time to locate your lure and induce a bite.

On the other hand, Carolina rigs work best in deep waters. Remember, these rigs use heavy sinkers to get your lure down without affecting your lure’s swimming speed.

Tip: Avoid using Texas rigs when the fish are actively feeding.

Weather/ Seasons

Deciding which rig to use also depends on the weather and season.

When the weather is cold or sunny, bass takes cover in thick vegetation, making a Texas rig better. But you’ll need to switch to a Carolina rig during winter because bass move to deeper waters. 

If you are bass fishing during spawning season, they move from different depth ranges looking for ideal nesting sites. A Carolina rig will be the best option as it is more versatile to cover large areas with different depths.

Post-spawning period, use a Texas rig because bass moves to shallow waters to protect their young ones. 

Tip: Remember, you can use either of these rigs during summer, as bass feed will be moving and feeding from everywhere. However, since it’s sunny most of the summer, you will use Texas rigs more because bass like hiding in covered, shallow areas.

Cover

The type of cover determines the kind of rig you will use. Texas rigs work best in areas with heavy cover, especially vegetation along a flooded river. 

On the other hand, Carolina rigs work best in deep waters covered with fallen trees and brush piles. As mentioned, this lure uses heavy sinkers that can move 20 feet down without affecting the casting distance.

Fishing Rig Setup

For an untrained eye, the Carolina and Texas rigs may look similar, but there is a distinct difference – the Texas rig’s weight is positioned above the hook.

Texas Rig

To set up a Texas rig, follow the steps below:

• Step 1: Collect your straight shank hook, bullet-shaped sinker, and soft plastic bait.
• Step 2: Thread your hook by passing the tip into the nose of your worm.
• Step 3: Poke the hook point and pull it back out of the worm through the new hole.
• Step 4: Pull your hook through until the nose and the eye are close together.
• Step 5: Lay the hook into the plastic to cover it.
• Step 6: You can peg your sinker to the line to prevent it from moving constantly. Ensure the glass bead is placed after the sinker to prevent it from damaging the eye.
• Step 7: Throw your rig into the water and wait until it touches the bottom. If you don’t get a bite, raise the rod, drop it, and ensure you’re winding the slack.

Carolina Rig

To set up a Carolina rig, follow the steps below.

• Step 1: Gather a bullet weight, glass or plastic bead, leader line, EWG worm hook, and soft plastic bait.
• Step 2: Pass your line through the bullet weight.
• Step 3: Insert the bead into the line.
• Step 4: Tie your swivel onto one end of your line. This prevents your line from twisting.
• Step 5: Secure the leader line but tie it to the other end of your swivel.
• Step 6: Attach the hook to the leader line through the Palomar knot.
• Step 7: Attach your soft, plastic bait to the hook and then gently move it in the water. You can use the 11-3 o’clock motion to entice the fish from taking a bite.

Tip: For a more comprehensive Carolina rig setup tutorial, read our Carola rig guide.

Sinkers

Carolina and Texas rigs use sinkers to help the lure reach the required depth. However, the types of sinkers they use vary in weight. 

Carolina rigs use heavier sinkers of up to two ounces to get your lure deep down without affecting the lure’s swimming speed. Contrastingly, Texas lures use lighter sinkers of up to ¾ ounces.

Rods

Texas rigs work well with a heavy to medium rod with enough length to cover a reasonable casting distance. However, that depends on the type of weights and lure you’re using. For example, if you’re fishing using soft plastics in an area with thick vegetation, you need a heavy rod.

Ideally, you should use a 7-foot rod paired with a baitcaster for heavy soft plastics. Pairing your rod with a braided line is also advisable to increase sensitivity when a fish takes a bite.

Since Carolina rigs use heavier weights, you need a rod to withstand the weight. A fast-action, heavy-medium rod works best because it is easier to make long casts. 

Lure

Carolina rigs are versatile and can work with live bait and plastic lures. Some popular lures include lizards, creature bait, craws, flukes, stick baits, soft plastic jerkbaits and crankbaits, and ribbon-tail worms. On the other hand, Texas rigs work best with craw worms: bulky jigs, crawdads, and leeches.

Tip: It’s advisable to use plastic lizards for inactive fish because they swim slowly, and a fish can see them better. If fishing for active fish, use worms because they move a lot, thus enticing the predators swimming nearby.

Carolina Rig Vs. Texas Rig: Which Is Better?

Both rigs are essential and work best under certain circumstances.

Carolina rigs work in deeper water with heavy currents, while Texas rigs work in shallow water with heavy cover. However, Carolina rigs are more versatile, and you will use them more than Texas rigs.

Pike are highly territorial and will quickly become vicious when under attack. But beginners can still catch them! In fact, they are one of the easiest freshwater predators to land. If you’re a pike fishing beginner, knowing where and how to catch this powerful fish and what is the right gear to use is the first step to becoming an expert. We’ve also included some basic tips for better chances of reeling this big fish! 

What Is Pike Fishing?

Pike fishing is the process of catching pike for recreational or commercial purposes. Pike anglers explore rivers, lakes, and bays for these incredible freshwater predators. Usually, you can fish for pike all year long, but the best time is during fall, winter, and early spring.

Tip: For better pike numbers and to increase your luck, you should fish during the pre-spawn period or after spawning (April), as hungry pike will more viciously. You should also hunt this game fish during the daytime, preferably in the morning, as pike are daylight hunters. 

Where Do You Fish For Pike?    

Since pike are highly territorial and solitary species, you can fish for them typically around bays, drop-offs, inlets, or areas with submerged logs and undercut banks. They also like to hang out in shallow waters with thick vegetation like weeds and reed stems. 

However, you’ll need a basic pike fishing tackle in spring, fall, and winter because pike will move 8 to 14 feet deeper. In summer, pike will go to deep lake waters, reaching 30 feet because they’re temperature sensitive. In addition, pike can’t handle low oxygen levels due to the summer heat hence the move to cooler lakes and rivers.

Tip: Luring the pike out at this depth is easier, but you must be prepared for a fight because they’re pretty strong.

Pike Fishing Set Up

Pike fishing for beginners is more exciting if you use the correct tackle. Your setup will consist of a fishing rod, line, hooks, lures, and the best bait for pike. Below is a detailed description of everything you’ll need for a robust pike fishing setup.

Leader

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Normally, pike will bite through your fishing line, so you need a wire leader to handle their razor-sharp teeth. 

Titanium and stainless leaders (15-30 pound test) will present great results for smaller lures. However, you’ll need a fluorocarbon wire trace (50-80 pound test) for bigger lures. Fluorocarbon has more abrasion resistance, and it’s less visible underwater.

Fishing Line

A braided fishing line (15-pound test) is better for bottom fishing, whereas a monofilament line (8-pound) is better for trolling. Experienced anglers prefer the braided fishing line because it casts farther and is durable. However, the monofilament line holds knots better and will cast smaller baits through the undercut banks and logs.  

Rod

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The best northern pike fishing rod has medium to medium-heavy power and fast action. This rod type will give you more control because, as mentioned earlier, these suckers are aggressive, especially the big ones! In addition, choose a rod length ranging from 6-10ft for better casting and hook setting.

Hooks 

Treble hooks are the best for pike fishing because they can withstand a pike’s attack from any angle. Unlike other types of hooks, it has three separate hooks for better clawing power and a firm grip even when a big pike is pulling. 

The size of your treble hook should match the lure or bait type. The best treble hooks range from size 2 to 6. What’s more, wide gap hooks with a shorter shank work better for lures, but you’ll need a longer shank for dead baits.

We suggest reading our treble hook size chart guide to better understand what treble hook size is best. 

Reel

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The baitcaster reel is superior for northern pike fishing because it presents better casting control and is easier to spool once you adjust the reel. However, pike fishing beginners will appreciate the spinning reel thanks to its ease of use and versatility. 

Lure

The best lure for northern pike includes lipless crankbaits, spoons, spinnerbaits, inline spinners, soft plastic lures, jerk baits, and top-water lures. 

The size of your lures will determine the size of the pike you catch. So, for bigger pike, you must use bigger lures—usually, a great lure size range between 12 and 16cm. You should also choose highly visible colors like chartreuse because pikes are more attracted to them, more so if it resembles their natural prey. 

Using a lure that creates vibration or sound in shallow water is also highly recommended. 

Bait 

Experienced anglers use either live or dead bait for pike fishing. But the best bait for pike fishing beginners is dead bait, as it stays in place longer, especially during ice fishing. It also has a more pungent scent that will attract pike. However, you should use fresh and shiny dead baits for better results. Popular dead baits include trout, roach, and sardine.

Other Must-Have Pike Fishing Gear

The pike fishing setup above includes the main requirements for a beginner. However, there are additional must-haves that will make your work easier and complete the entire pike fishing tackle. They include:

Jaw Spreader

Pike has razor-sharp teeth, which makes hook removal challenging, especially for a beginner. The jaw spreader comes in handy by holding the pike’s jaws wide apart while you remove the treble hooks. 

Pliers

While the jaw spreader holds the jaws apart, you’ll use the pike pliers to unhook all the hooks safely. The best pliers for fishing should have a line cutter and a longer nose to avoid contact with the pike’s sharp teeth.

Net

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Your pike fishing tackle is incomplete without a net, especially if it’s your first time fishing for a pike. A landing net helps you safely carry the fish out of the water. The nets come in different sizes and types, but the best net for pike fishing has rubber mesh to prevent pike from biting through.

Unhooking Mat 

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These mats provide a protective layer for the fish on land while you unhook its jaws. They’re spongy with soft foam or safe polyester material, and they’re available in a range of sizes and designs.

Bank Sticks

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A bank stick will hold your rods while waiting for a pike to take a bite! They’re ideal for shoreline or bank fishing. Some models can accommodate a bite alarm, butt griper, and buzzbar to enhance your fishing experience. 

What Rigs Are Best for Pike?

The best rigs to use for pike fishing includes a ledger rig, float rig, and a deadbait rig. Here’s a closer look at each rig and why they’re so effective:

Ledger Rig

The ledger rig is the most popular rig in pike fishing, especially in deep and fast-slowing waters. This rig presents two bait options, increasing the tackle’s resistance when the pike struggle to unhook. Lastly, you can detach and replace parts of this rig without disassembling the entire rig.

Float Rig

Float rigs are great for pike fishing because they provide a wider depth range. You can cast it to the bottom of the waterbed or let it float above the surface without missing your target.

What’s more, your lure or dead bait moves gently within your vicinity without being washed away. These movements produce vibrations that attract the pike.

Deadbait Rig

Deadbait rigs will work for a beginner because they’re static, and if deployed accurately, they’ll produce positive results. It also covers a wider surface area, saving you time. The setup includes a run ring, swivel, buffer bead, wire trace, and an unweighted pencil float. You’ll launch the rig to the bottom of the water and use the pencil float to determine if the pike is hooked.

How to Catch Pike

Luring and hooking a pike is easy, but you must be prepared for an intense struggle because they don’t go down without a fight. However, as a beginner, knowing what to do helps. Below are a few tips to help you catch a pike.

1. Locate a potential spot for pikes. Remember, this fish likes to hang around shallow waters with plenty of vegetation, like weeds. Bays, rivers, and lakes also provide excellent homes for pike.
2. Choose a sturdy medium-heavy power rod with fast action and pair it with a baitcaster or spinning reel.
3. Combine a strong braided line with a fluorocarbon wire leader to increase your chances of hook settings. Remember, a pike has sharp teeth that will bite through your wire leader. Also, a 50-80 pound test is ideal, especially if you want to land a bigger pike.
4. Hook your gear with treble hooks and add brightly-colored lures or dead baits to attract the pike from a distance.
5. Finally, cast your tackle and wait for the pike to move toward your bait. If there are no signs of hooking, gently troll your lures in a swimming pattern to trigger the predator.
6. Once it’s hooked, lift it out of the water, use a net, and lay it across the unhooking mat for hook removal. Don’t use your hands. Instead, utilize your jaw spreader and pliers for safe hook removal.
7. That’s it! If you don’t intend to take it with you, return the pike into the water immediately.

Is Pike Fishing Worth It for Beginners?

The answer is yes! Pike fishing for beginners is enjoyable despite the pulling power of the fish. As a matter of fact, you’ll enjoy chasing this powerful freshwater predator, especially if you have the proper pike fishing gear. 

Belly boats or fishing float tubes may look like just regular inflatable water floating beds, but they are specialized fishing gear designed for anglers that prefer fishing in calm waters like lakes and small ponds. For instance, its footprint is significantly smaller than a kayak or canoe, so you can maneuver to a remote area without scaring fish. 

You’ll need the right belly boat to have the best float tube fishing experience. In this article, we review the top choices available in the market based on durability, price, and extra features like ample storage. 

A buyer’s guide is also available at the end of the article so you know what to look for in a high-quality float tube.

1. Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube

The best fishing float tube is the Cumberland Float Tube by Classic Accessories. Unlike other float tubes for fishing, it offers the best value for money, especially considering its onboard features.

One of its best features is its unmatched comfort, especially for long fishing days. It has an 18″ wide seat with enough room to move when casting or reeling. The seat is also tall for unobstructed visibility when fishing. The weight capacity is also 350 lbs. And if you are taking a quick break, your back will appreciate its thickly padded, adjustable backrest.

This float tube also rocks a hydrodynamic hull shape, which is not only for design but designed specifically for easier maneuverability in the waters. This shape also offers maximum storage to store your tools. It even comes with convenient cup holders, rod holders, and a mesh lap apron with a fish ruler.

In terms of durability, the Classic Accessories Cumberland Float Tube will last throughout different fishing seasons because it features an abrasion-resistant PVC bottom.

Best of all, fly fishermen and backwoods anglers who take the beaten path and long hikes to reach a hidden and backcountry but best fishing spot will also love its 14-lbs weight and carrying straps.

All in all, this float tube is the best purchase because you don’t have to give up comfort, durability, and functionality.

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2. Classic Accessories Teton Inflatable Fishing Float Tube

On a tight budget? You should consider this inflatable fishing float tube, which Classic Accessories also make. Unlike the Cumberland, the Teton is lighter, weighing only 8.5 pounds. But that doesn’t mean you’ll give up durability because, like the Cumberland, it is also heavy-duty polyester.

So, what are you giving up? If padded seating is your thing, there might be better options than this float tube. It uses air-filled bladders for comfort and buoyancy. It also doesn’t have an adjustable backrest. Regarding storage capacity, you’ll get single zippered cargo pockets on each armrest, but you won’t get the drink and rod holders. It also has a slightly lower weight capacity versus Cumberland; it can only accommodate up to 250 pounds.

This belly float is for anglers who want to try float tube fishing without breaking the bank. It is almost half the price of the Cumberland, but you can still enjoy standard float tube features.

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3. Outcast Sporting Gear OSG Stealth Pro

If you’re looking for unique features, compact design, and simplicity, the outcast Sporting Gear OSG Stealth Pro is perfect. This tube is more expensive compared to the Cumberland and Teton float tubes. However, this tube for fishing has additional features to make your 30-day fishing trip more efficient.

Firstly, the bottom is movable, allowing you to adjust the most comfortable seat and gear positioning. Plus, you can add more equipment like rod holders and anchors. That’s not the best part, though. Most float tubes are unsuitable for whitewaters or unstable lakes.

On the other hand, this float tube has rockered ends, so it is more stable even when traversing on waters with big swells. It also doesn’t have a frame, making it easier to set up. However, expect it to be heavier than a Cumberland; its weight is 35 lbs.

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4. Classic Accessories Colorado XT Pontoon Boat

If you want a float tube made by Classic Accessories but with more features for comfort and storage, consider the Colorado XT. This fishing float is cheaper than the Outcast Sporting Gear OSG Stealth Pro, but its features are similar. But if you compare the Colorado XT to the previously mentioned Classic Accessories, you’ll understand why it commands a more premium price tag.

The Colorado XT Pontoon Boat doesn’t sport the usual U-shape float design. Instead, it rocks a pontoon style, which offers stability for sudden swells and maximum maneuverability like the Outcast Spring. The Colorado XT Pontoon Boat also has removable side pockets, which can combine to make a portable gear bag.

You get 20 pockets and a pair of insulated holders. If that’s not enough, this tube has a transport wheel, allowing easier access to your best fishing spot. For durability, you still get the extra tough abrasion-resistant PVC bottom featured in cheaper Classic Accessories models. It also has a powder-coated steel tube frame which adds rigidity to the tube.

This pontoon-style tube float weighs 77 pounds, but it can accommodate a maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs. This float boat is a better choice than the rest if you plan to add a trolling motor.

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Runner Ups

Outcast Fish Cat 5 Max

What sets the Fish Cat 5 max apart from the Fish Cat 4 is the larger seating space and improved comfort. The tube for belly boat fishing has a foam seat and a comfortable backrest.

These features make the tube super comfy when you’re out in the water. Besides, there’s no need to worry about staying afloat because it has a 300-pound capacity. The U-boat shape keeps you well on the water, making extra casts easier. You can also catch big fish better on the Fish Cat 5 Max.

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Goplus Inflatable Float Tube

This inflatable fishing float tube uses premium polyester and PVC, making it strong enough to carry up to 350 pounds. Aside from the durability, you get a pump for easy deflation and inflation. In addition, each side has a storage bag for placing bait and personal items. These storage spaces make items safe and secure from getting wet or falling into the water.

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What You Should Consider Before Buying Fishing Float Tubes 

New anglers need help choosing the best fishing float tubes based on their tastes and preferences. Still, manufacturers develop new tubes often, so you must be on top of your game when buying these tubes. Check for the following features to be on the safe side:

Load Capacity

Your weight, plus that of your gear, matters when buying a float tube. If the maximum capacity is 350 pounds and your weight plus gear weight exceeds that, there is a huge chance that the float will sink. 

Storage

The storage and pockets available on tubes should be easily accessible and have a high capacity. You need enough space for your bait, gear, and personal items to avoid losing anything while on the water. 

Durability

High-quality float tubes use PVC and tough nylon. For instance, the Cumberland has a rugged PVC bottom to withstand tough waters. At the same time, the PVC material makes the tube last longer since jagged rocks and debris cannot affect it. 

Comfort Features

If you’re trekking or hiking to get to your fishing spot, get a tube with adjustable shoulder straps so you can easily transport it. You should look for a belly float with an adjustable backrest and a high seat position for maximum comfort during extended fishing trips. 

Extra Features 

Of course, ordinary tube features are enough to convince you to buy them. However, features like D-rings (rod holders) and a fish ruler are optional but can make fishing more convenient. 

What Floats Your Boat

Fishing on a boat is fun, but fishing float tubes offers a completely different experience. Hopefully, our choices for the best fishing float tubes will sway you to try belly boat fishing!

The Carolina rig is a highly effective setup that involves fixing the sinker weight above the hook. This rig is ideal for anglers of any experience level and can help you catch bottom-feeding fish. Before you go on your next fishing trip, you should know what this rig is and how to set it up.

What Is A Carolina Rig?

While there are many rigs at your disposal, you can use the Carolina rig for bass or catfish because of its bait presentation. It is also simple to set up. 

• You’ll place a bullet-type or egg-type weight on the mainline (typically, a fluorocarbon). 
• Behind the sinker is a bead that you tie to the end of the swivel. 
• Then, you’ll use a 3/0 worm hook at the end of the leader (typically, a monofilament). You may also use smaller hooks.

The lure you use is typically soft plastic bait that an aggressive or hungry bass finds appealing. You’ll discover that the most popular options are worms and lizards. However, crawfish are also effective. Consider crankbaits and topwater lures if you prefer a bait that lifts your lure from the floor.

Tip: The main difference between Texas rigs and Carolina rig fishing is that Texas rigs are lighter, making a Texas rig more useful when fishing in shallow waters. 

When to Use This Rig?

Carolina rigs appeal to fish, whether they are hungry or aggressive. Since these rigs weigh as much as two ounces, they work well in deeper waters where catfish and bass thrive. 

• Coldwater: During the winter and spring, fish found in deeper waters are more lethargic. With these rigs in place, you’ll offer fish the sustenance they’re looking for.
• Windy and cloudy days: Surface action is practically nonexistent during windy and cloudy days. This rig allows you to reach deeper waters and penetrate the cover.
• Open water: The majority of anglers prefer fast-moving lures in open waters. However, a c-rig allows you to quickly reach the bottom but retrieve the line at a much faster rate.
• Bass fishing: This rig is specifically made to catch slower and more lethargic bass in deep waters.
• Surf fishing: This rig is the perfect solution for surf fishing because of its simplicity and bait presentation.
• Pole fishing: The design of this rig allows you to pull it up quickly despite its heavier body.
• Catfish fishing: This rig is excellent for catfish fishing because the mainline can slide freely. In return, when a catfish bite the bait, it wouldn’t feel any weight.

How Do You Rig up a Carolina Rig?

While setting this rig up is a fairly straightforward process, it’s crucial that you get it right the first time. 

1. Get the Right Materials

Before making a Carolina rig, you will need to have this tackle:

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• Soft plastic bait: Use ribbon-tail worms, flukes, creature baits, or lizards, all of which provide ample kick and vibration
• Bait size: The bait you use should be around 2/0 to 5/0. 

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• Weight (egg or bullet): Around 1/8 to 1 ounce to get to the bottom effectively. You can increase the weight if needed. 

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• Line: Ideally, a monofilament that is 1′ to 3′ of 12-15 lbs. 

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• Bead: 6mm bead size.

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• Reel and gear ratio: Select a 200-size reel (like a baitcasting reel) with a 7:1:1 gear ratio. 

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• Rod: A longer rod, between 7’5″ and 7’8,” is necessary for better casting distance. 

2. Tie the Hook to the Leader Line

Consider a worm hook of at least 3/0. A wide gap offset hook is compelling in nearly every scenario. However, an extra wide gap hook is ideal when you use bulkier soft plastics as bait. Most leaders with this rig are around 12-24 inches in length. A leader of 36-48 inches is more appropriate for finicky bass.

3. Add the Weight and Tie with A Swivel

Choose a bullet or egg weight with a size of around 3/4 ounce to reach deep waters. Slide the weight on your mainline via the hole in the center. Tie the line with a swivel, which keeps the line from twisting. Use a Palomar knot before clipping off the excess line.

4. Attach the Plastic Bait to the Hook

Select a soft plastic bait so you can easily drag it along the ground. Then, attach the bait of your choice to the end of the hook. Ensure the bait is secure before you begin fishing for the day.

FAQ 

How Much Drag?

You’ll entice fish by dragging your bait across the bottom of the water in a slow motion. You should also point your rod at the 12 o’clock position before moving it back and forth to the two o’clock position.

What Knot to Use for This Rig?

You can use either a Palomar or an improved clinch. For the Palomar knot:

1. Add one foot to your leader. 
2. Fold the final six inches of the leader onto itself before passing the loop through the hook’s eye.
3. Tie an overhand knot with each side, which traps the hook eye towards the middle of the knot’s loop. 
4. Pull the loop to the other side before tightening the entire knot.

How Deep Can You Fish with This Rig?

These rigs are most effective at depths that range from 2-25 feet. While you may catch fish in deeper waters, there are better options for more than 25 feet. In this scenario, consider other options like dropshots and football jigs, 1′ to 3′ of 12-15lbs