Whether you’re after brook trout, brown trout, or rainbow trout, the classic float rig is essential when you’re fishing rivers. Using a floating river is excellent for fishing the river because it allows for extended drifts, which is important for working in the current. Here we will show you how to set up this basic rig.
Setting Up the Trout Float Rig
Here’s what you will need for this rig:
Slip Bobber – We use a slip bobber but you can use any basic bobber
Split Shot Sinker – Don’t use too heavy of a sinker. You want to use something just heavy enough that won’t drag the bobber down.
Beads – Use a 6mm bead for this rig.
Hooks – Depending on the size trout you are fishing you may use a size 4 to 12 hook for this setup.
Fishing Line – Depending on the throat you are fishing you may want to use a 5 to 30 lb test line. You can also use a fluorocarbon leader if desired.
How to Tie the Trout Rig
This rig is really easy to set up. All you need to do is:
1. Take your bobber stop and tie it onto your line.
2. Slide on your bead. This will prevent the bobber stop from sliding through the bobber
3. Then slide on your bobber
4. Tie your hook to the end of the line
5. Attach your split-shot sinker to your line.
After your rig is set up all you need to do is attach your favorite bait. There is tons of room to make minor adjustments to this rig depending on your preferences. Usually, you want to use a length between about 4-10 feet of line after your bobber stop.
This rig is usually fished with a spinning rod when targeting trout. You can use this to catch them in lakes, rivers, and streams. If you’re going to use this rig in moving waters look for deeper slower moving pools just after fast shallow water. Trout often like to wait in these pools for food to come to them without spending too much energy.
Bonus Tip
When using this rig, wait until the bobber is fully submerged underwater before setting your hook. If you go to soon you won’t have a good hook set and you will end up losing the fish.
Here is a great video on setting up the rig if you need additional help:
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Best Fishing Line for Trout
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