How to Make Umbrella Rig Frames

For the ambitious angler who wants to bring home a healthy catch, the umbrella rig is an essential piece of kit. As its name implies, the rig sports four wire arms which resemble the bare frame of an umbrella. At the end of each arm are swiveling hooks which a lure or bait can be attached to. Though professionally made umbrella rigs are available, you can make one for a fraction of the cost using simple materials from your local hardware store.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Spool of galvanized wire
  • Wire-cutting pliers
  • Metal swivels
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Measure out a 20-inch length of galvanized wire, and cut it from the spool using a pair of wire-cutting pliers.

    • 2

      Cut the segment in half, using wire-cutting pliers, to get two 10-inch-long segments of wire.

    • 3

      Pinch the midpoint of one of the segments together, using pliers. Twist the pinched portion of the wire clockwise several times. Once finished, there should be a small eyelet formed at the top of the twisted wire.

    • 4

      Wrap the second wire around the twisted portion of the first segment. Apply pressure to the wrapped wire with your pliers to ensure that it is coiled securely. The protruding ends of the second wire should be of equal length once you finish.

    • 5

      Coil the end of each wire to form small eyelets. Hook four swivels into the eyelets.

    • 6

      Thread your fishing line through the top eyelet, wrapping it around the wire several times, and tie securely. Attach the desired lures or bait to the swivels prior to fishing.