How to Set Up a Fishing Pole for a Red Drum

Red drum, which more commonly are known as redfish, are a sporting saltwater fish that anglers often find in shallow water. Anglers target the fish, which may weigh as much as 90 pounds, from the shore, piers or in boats over grassy flats. The fish are known to put up a spirited fight and many anglers consider it an accomplishment to catch one, because they are wary fish that spook easily. Rigging for red drum is relatively simple, and the rigs are similar whether anglers fish vertically or cast the baits to the fish.

Things You'll Need

  • Fishing line
  • Sinker
  • Barrel swivel
  • Hook
  • Bait
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Instructions

    • 1

      Slide a 3-oz. pyramid or egg sinker onto the fishing line. Use a pyramid sinker when casting and an egg sinker when fishing vertically.

    • 2

      Tie a barrel swivel to the end of the fishing line. Connect line to the swivel with a Palomar knot.

    • 3

      Cut a 36- to 48-inch piece of monofilament fishing line, which serves as the leader. Tie one end of the leader to the open end of the barrel swivel.

    • 4

      Tie a size 6/0 hook to the end of the leader.

    • 5

      Attach a live mullet, or chunk of dead mullet, to the hook. Hook a live mullet through its back, just behind its dorsal fin. If you use a chunk of dead mullet, hook the chunk several times so it is attached firmly to the hook.