Here's a few well
recognised basic rigs for reference including a brief description of
the best situation for each. Click on the rig type below for details or scroll through the selection.
RIG
1 - BASIC FLOAT RIG
The basic float rig is one of the first rigs we all learn but is so often an appropriate choice. The purpose is to suspend the bait in the mid levels and is suitable for most fish except bottom feeders.
Step 1 Slide on your float to the depth you want and secure with a rubber sleeve. Choose a lightweight waggler float of around 4-5 inches for fishing close to the bank. For casting further distances, you will need more shot so choose a larger float
which can take the extra weight without going under.
Step 2 Attach a cluster of shot below the float, just enough to cock it upright so that only around 1cm is still visible above the water.
Step 3 Tie on your chosen hook and nip 1 piece of shot about 4 inches above it to stabilise the baited hook.
RIG
2 - SIMPLE LEDGER RIG Another very popular rig. Great for catching Perch, Tench, Carp, Pike and many more. There are a number of variations on this basic rig but ultimately ledgering is a key method.
Step 1
Thread a swivel and then a bead on to the main reel line.
Step 2
On the end of the reel line, tie on another swivel and attach a 12" length of line to it.
Step 3
Attach a lead weight, usually a bomb lead, to the end of the 12" piece of line.
Step 4
Choose your trace line and take a length of between 2 and 4 feet and attach it to the first swivel. On the other end of this line length attach your selected hook.
RIG
3 - FIXED LEDGER RIG The fixed ledger is a variation on the above whereby the adjoining trace line is fixed with a knot to the main line and cannot slide.
Step 1
About 2 feet from the end of the reel line, tie on a 12" length of line using a four turn water knot.
Step 2
On this 12" length of line, attach your lead weight - usually a bomb lead of around 1/2 an ounce.
Step 3
Attach your chosen hook to the end of the reel line.
Carp Rods
