How to Use Bottom Fishing Rigs: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

If you're new to the world of fishing or just starting out with bottom fishing rigs, this guide will help you master the basics and become a successful fisherman. Fishing rigs are a simple but extremely effective tool for hunting predatory fish, especially in coastal areas. Be sure to read the Regulations on Sport and Recreational Fishing at Sea at this link because of the restrictions that exist in their application before using singles. In this blog, we'll go through all the steps, from preparation to hauling, to get the most out of this tool.

What is a Bottom Fishing Rig?

A bottom fishing rig is a fishing tool that consists of a reel, nylon, sinker and hooks. It is designed to remain stationary at the location of its installation, which makes it ideal for catching predatory fish in coastal waters. Once lowered into the sea, the reel remains on the surface, while the sinker with hooks sinks to the bottom. This method of installation allows the fish to calmly approach the bait/bait, and the fishing rig signals a catch.

Step by Step Guide to Using a Bottom Fishing Rig

1. Equipment Preparation

Before you go fishing, make sure you have everything you need:

• Bottom fishing rig: Choose the type of rig (round or square) depending on the fishing conditions.
• Bait/Lure: The most effective bait for bottom fishing rig is a large sea worm, but you can also use other natural baits such as fresh fish, cephalopods, or shellfish.
• Additional equipment: Knife for bait preparation, bait container and gloves for handling hooks.

2. Preparing the Bait/Lure

• If you are using a large sea worm, attach it to the hook so that it covers the entire hook, but leave the tip of the hook free.
• If you use other baits, ensure they are securely attached so they do not fall out when set or when dropped to the seabed.

3. Setting up a Fishing Rig

1. Select a Location: Fishing rigs are most effective in coastal areas with rocky bottoms and seagrass (Posidonia oceanica).
2. Lower the rig into the Sea:
   • Lower the rig into the sea from a moving vessel.
   • The sinker with hooks will sink to the bottom, while the reel remains on the surface of the sea.
3. Release the Nylon: Unroll the nylon to the desired depth (usually 15-25 meters).
4. Placing the rig: After being laid, the rig remains at the placement site, on the surface of the sea.

4. Waiting for the Catch

• After setting up, leave the rig to be still for about one hour.
• During this time, predatory fish will be attracted to the smell of the live bait/bait and grab the hook.
• If a fish is caught, the line will unwind from the reel and the reel may sink below the surface of the sea, which is a signal that the catch was successful.

5. Taking out the Rig

1. Slowly Pull Out the Rig: Use the reel to slowly pull the rig out of the sea and reel in the nylon.
2. Check the Catch: If the fish is caught, carefully remove it from the hook.
3. Reset: If you haven't caught anything, check the bait and re-set the rig.

Tips for Successful Fishing

1. Choose the Right Time

• The best results are achieved at dawn or at night, when predatory fish are most active.
• Also, fishing is more effective when the tide is high or low, because the fish are more active then.

2. Use Natural Baits/Lures

• Natural baits like a large sea worm attract fish with their scent and movement.
• If you use other baits, ensure they are fresh and securely attached.

3. Pay attention to safety.

• Always use gloves when handling hooks to avoid injury.
• Be careful when pulling out the fishing rig so you don't lose your catch.

4. Follow the Regulations

• Check your local fishing regulations to ensure you are using the fishing rigs in a legal manner.

Why Use a Bottom Fishing Rig?

Bottom fishing rigs are extremely simple and efficient for hunting predatory fish. Thanks to the peaceful placement, rigs do not scare the fish, which increases the chances of catching. With proper use and a little patience, bottom fishing rigs can bring you a rich catch and unforgettable fishing moments.

Find ready-made fishing rigs of all sizes as well as other fishing tools in our web store!