James RickardA way to rig worms
October 9th 2009 01:12
A lot of guys just hook a worm umpteen times and throw it into the water. That may work if a fish homes on the scent but it certainly isn't going to attract anything because of its appearance. In fact, you'll probably end up with what is known as a "worm ball" and have the worm wrapped around the hook three or four times.
Since it's been a little too cold to dig for worms, I'm using artificials to illustrate these gang hooks. You can buy them already made, like the fancy one at the bottom or tie them yourself.
The exact way you tie them will depend on the species you're trying to catch. I like to use two hooks because that's usually legal in most areas. Some areas mandate a limit of two or three hooks and others have no restrictions so, you have to do some investigating of local regulations.
If you're tying your own, when it comes to the line you use, let common sense be your guide. I consider these things to be lures so I don't worry about losing them. I honestly don't remember the strength of the rig I bought. I have another one I tied with 12 lb. fluorocarbon and the other is a 30 lb. wire for toothy fish.
Try size 6-8 hooks. I've heard of guys using size 10 for a rig like this but, that's a little small for my blood. As for spacing the hooks--again, the intended species will determine this to a great degree. Two or three inches ( 4-7 cm.) works for a decent sized fish.
I don't use much weight, if any with this rig unless I'm fishing the bottom. I don't wast time then. I go right to a 1/4 ounce or 1/2 ounce weight--even more if it's a strong river current!
I suggest rigging your worm fairly neatly. After hooking the front of the worm with the head facing you, figure where the curve of the second hook will be and insert the point there and then pull it through and make things as neat as possible. If you have trouble, practice a couple times on a plastic worm.
One last comment, if you tie your own rigs, don't add a propeller like the one at the bottom of the photo. It can fray the line and make a weak spot. The prop is mounted on a piece of stiff wire and the hooks are tied to a piece of line coming off of that.
Remember to take the hooks outta yer pocket before ya sit down!
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