The basic Lindy rig (in my opinion) is the best and simplest method of fishing live bait as natural as possible. There are many combinations you can use. Shorten or lengthen the leader as you need to, maybe put on a spinner blade to create some flash or add some beads to give it a little color. Don't hesitate to experiment and try different things. The only limitations are your imagination.
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First slide the sinker on the line, then tie on your snap or swivel and then tie on the hook and leader. You will have to let the fish tell you how long to make the leader but I generally start around sixteen inches and lengthen or shorten as needed. Hook size is important. Most people match the hook to the fish they are after. You should match the hook to the size of the bait you are using. The size of the hook should not hinder the action of the bait. Remember, you want the bait to act as natural as possible. Hook your bait lightly through the lips or nose. This will keep your bait lively longer and it looks more natural. If you hook a minnow through the lips it will swim down towards the bottom. If you want it to swim up to keep it away from the bottom, hook it through the tail. Sometimes you have to change your sinker weight to compensate for increased wind or a change in depth. To make it an easier job, just cut one side of your line hole and just open and close it to change. There are many things you can do to keep your bait fresh, but I think the most important is to keep them cool. Make your own ice packs for your minnow bucket. Fill some margarine containers with water, add a little bait saver and then freeze it. Not only does it keep the water cool but also slowly releases the Baitsaver into the water. |
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