Saltwater Fishing Essentials
Saltwater fishing is a completely different ballgame when it comes to what gear to use and how to rig your rod. Although there are many types of saltwater fishing rigs that can be utilized in order to be successful on the water, there are three that have been proven to be most popular among saltwater anglers. Here at Toadfish, we specialize in creating high-quality, durable, and top performing fishing rods and reels designed specifically for these types of rigs.
If you are targeting inshore species such as Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, etc., we suggest using our 7'2'' Medium X-Fast Spinning Rod paired with our new 2500 Carbon Elite Guide Series Reel and Braided Line.
CAROLINA RIG
Named after our home state, the Carolina Rig is one of the most effective ways to catch inshore species in any situation. Similar to the Texas Rig, this specific rig is designed to help anglers catch bottom feeding fish. When thrown into the water, the rig moves in a circular motion, enticing fish to bite.
To make a Carolina Rig, begin by threading the main braided line through the hole in an egg sinker and a small plastic bead (this helps keep the sinker from snagging on the terminal tackle). Next, tie one side of a swivel to the mainline and the other to a fluorocarbon leader, typically between 6- to 12-inch. Finally, attach a circle hook with cut or live bait or artificial saltwater bait like a soft plastic or jig. We recommend the Gulp! Saltwater Mantis Shrimp.
POPPING CORK
The Popping Cork rig is a proven fish magnet! Designed to attract fish through their keen sense of sound and curiosity of topwater commotion, this rig is fun to fish and can produce some pretty awesome eats. A popping cork is simply a 2- to 6-inch-long float made of cork, Styrofoam or hard plastic. Most are cupped at one end in order to produce loud “chugs” and “pops” when the cork is pulled sharply. They are tapered and often weighted at the other end for easier casting and to keep the streamlined end below the surface. This rig works best where shrimp or bait fish are popping on the surface. Use live shrimp or mud minnows for bait.
JIGHEAD
Arguably one of the most simple, yet effective saltwater fishing rigs out there. Attaching a jig head to the end of your fluorocarbon leader allows anglers to quickly switch out their artificial, soft plastics, or live bait in order to catch more fish. When fish are more aggressive, a slow retrieve is a great way to attract a bite. For this rig, we suggest using Eye Strike Jig Heads with Gulp! Plastics, not only locally made here in Charleston, but have undeniable success when fishing for reds, trout, sheepshead, etc.
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