Tips for Main Lake Fishing Rigs

Proper Equipment

Select the rod and reel combination that best suits the type of fishing you plan to do. Anglers who target species like crappie, perch, sunfish and walleye should use a spinning rod and reel, while those who target muskie and northern pike should use a baitcasting combination. Bass anglers can use either a spinning or baitcasting combination, depending upon individual preference.

Artificial Bait Rigs

Artificial lures are staples among fishermen who chase bass, muskies and pike in main-lake areas. If you fling lures for muskies and pike, it is a good idea to attach a wire leader to the end of your fishing line, and then attach the lure to the leader. If you do not use a leader when targeting these species, you run the risk of their sharp teeth nicking the line and causing it to break. Bass anglers rarely use steel leaders, primarily because they do not have teeth like muskies and pike do.

Lindy Rig

Main-lake areas structure , such as drop-offs, humps and reefs are the domain of walleye fishermen. The best way to catch these fish is with a live-bait rig known as a Lindy rig. The rig includes a No. 4 or No. 6 hook, a 36- to 48-inch leader, swivel and a sliding sinker heavy enough to keep the rig on the bottom. Leeches, minnows or nightcrawlers are the best live baits to attach to the rig. Troll or drift Lindy rigs slowly through areas that walleyes are likely to be.

Bobber Rig

Beginning anglers, or those who pursue crappies and sunfish, should consider using a bobber rig. These rigs are especially productive around the beds of vegetation that grow on main-lake humps and reefs. The bobber rig includes a hook, split shot sinker and bobber. Attach the bobber so it suspends the bait at the level at which the fish are holding. If they are five feet below the surface, for example, there should be five feet of fishing line between the bobber and the hook. A variety of live baits work on bobber rigs, but waxworms, crappie minnows, small leeches, and bits of nightcrawler tend to be best.

Snap Swivel

Select a snap swivel to fish with artificial baits. The snap swivel lets you change baits as often as you like without retying your line. If you plan to use the same artificial bait for extended periods of time, tie the line directly to the hook.