Erik Landesfeind, BD Pro Team member, demonstrates how to rig up three of his favorite rockfish rigs using lures and bait.
Erik first demonstrates how he likes to build a rig for lingcod when fishing a larger bait like big mackerel, sanddab, or other large live baits. He first snells an Octopus offset circle hook and leaves a long tag upon which he ties a Gamakatsu 4X strong treble hook which tucks in the back of the bait to stick the lingcod when he bites partway back on the bait. He also uses a Superline solid ring at the top of the leader where he also adds a lighter dropper for the weight.
- Octopus Offset Circle Hook – 6/0
- 4X Strong Treble Hook – #1
- Superline Solid Ring – #6
- Monofilament or Fluorocarbon Leader – 40# to 60#
The next version of rockfish rig is built like a saltwater version of a freshwater dropshot and is a great option when the current is really strong. This rig is built to use a soft plastic jerkbait or swimbait. He rigs a 5/0 to 7/0 Gamakatsu EWG Monster Worm hook rigged with the hook facing upward. A Superline swivel is added to the top of the leader to reduce line twist and the long tag is where the sinker is attached.
- EWG Monster Worm Hook – 5/0 to 7/0
- Superline Swivel – #5
- Monofilament or Fluorocarbon Leader – 40# to 60#
Rockfish tip number 3 involves swapping out the fixed treble hooks on most irons or jigs for an assist hook much like you would a flat fall or butterfly type jig. This prevents the fighting rockfish from being able to leverage against the jig and unhook himself on the way up. Erik prefers to use a single assist hook like the 510 Assist in a 2/0 from Gamakatsu. Super sharp and very sturdy are some of the prime benefits of using a quality hook.
- 510 Assist Hook – 2/0
- Monofilament or Fluorocarbon Leader – 40# to 60#
