How to Rig a Saltwater Rod

Various rigs are used in conjunction with saltwater fishing rods, reels and lines for catching fish. From medium-heavy rods and reels used for inshore fishing to long, heavy rods used to cast large weights, a rig used on the end of the line allows the angler to properly present a bait in the water. Assembling a saltwater rig requires a few common pieces of terminal tackle and other components.

Things You'll Need

  • Saltwater rod with matched reel and line
  • Sliding weight
  • Bead
  • Barrel swivel
  • Scissors
  • Monofilament fishing line
  • Hook
  • Bait
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Instructions

    • 1

      Slide a 1/2-oz. or heavier weight onto the end of the main fishing line. Choose an egg weight or pyramid weight attached to a plastic line slide based on personal preference and fishing conditions.

    • 2

      Place a plastic bead on the line below the weight. Attach a barrel swivel to the end of the line with a uni knot. Use a bead to protect the uni knot from the sliding weight.

    • 3

      Cut a length of monofilament line from a filler spool with scissors to use as a leader. Choose a pound test for the leader that is about twice that of the main line. Attach the leader to the barrel swivel with a uni knot.

    • 4

      Tie a bait holder or circle hook to the end of the leader with a Palomar knot. Choose a bait holder hook to hold bait securely in place or a circle hook to increase the likelihood of releasing a fish unharmed.

    • 5

      Place cut bait such as shrimp, mullet, menhaden or squid on the hook as bait.