Catfish is a popular species of game fish, sought after by many anglers. It puts up a good fight and is an excellent eating fish, with a firm, sweet flesh. A number of catfish rigs can be constructed that can help improve the opportunity for a good catch. Each type is suited to specific fishing conditions. These rigs are easy to construct, requiring only a few pieces of tackle.
Sliding Sinker Rig
The sliding sinker rig is among the most common of rigs for catfish fishing and is easy to construct and use. An egg sinker is first slid onto the main fishing line, often followed by a bead of some kind. The sinker should be just heavy enough to allow for proper casting. End of the mainline is then tied to a barrel swivel. The leader line 18 to 24 inches long is then tied to the other end of the swivel. A hook is then tied to the end of the leader. Any type of bait can be used with this rig. When a fish strikes the bait, the line will pull through the sinker, allowing the tip of the fishing rod to move and indicate the fish is on.
Pyramid Sinker Rig
Pyramid sinker rigs are particularly good for rivers, streams and other areas where the current may be strong. Pyramid sinkers tend to grab the bottom and hold the rig in place. This rig consists of a barrel swivel and clip tied to the main line. The pyramid sinker is then attached to the clip as is the leader and hook. Unlike the slider sinker rig, the pyramid sinker remains stationary on the line, holding the bait on the bottom even stiff currents.
Double Chub Rig
For larger catfish, live bait is often preferred. Small bait fish such as chubs are minnows serve this purpose well. To rig a double chub rig, tie two leaders with hooks to a swivel that is attached to the main fishing line. One leader should be about half the length of the other. Attach a weight on the longest leader a few inches from the swivel. This will hold the rig to the bottom and prevent the two lines from becoming twisted. Bait each hook with a live in minnow or chub by hooking the small fish through the lip.
Bobber Rig
A bobber rig can be used in still water conditions are areas where water is moving slowly. The main line is first attached to a clip swivel. A leader with a hook is then tied to the swivel. Small weight can be attached to the swivel to hold the bait down in the water. A bobber, a type of small plastic or cork float, can then be attached above the swivel on the main line. The distance from the bait to the bobber can be adjusted so the bait tanks just above the bottom. When a fish strikes, the bobber will go under, acting as a visual indicator that fish is on the line.
Three-Way Rig
The three-way rig starts with the three-way swivel. This is a ring of metal with three eyelets around its edge. The main line is first time to one eyelet. A 12-inch leader and hook are then tied to another eyelet. Finally, another leader 18 to 24 inches long with a weight tied to the end of it is attached to the last eyelet. This rig will keep the bait stationary while holding up off the bottom. Because there is tension on this rig, you must be more focused on your tackle to know when a fish is nibbling.
Member Comments