The Saltwater Magazine for Gulf Coast Fishing! 

 

 

Rigging Plastics on a Circle Hook

A Hook-Forward Rig

My hook-forward rig works well for slow-trolling or sightcasting large soft-plastic baits. In one week it accounted for six cobia - out of six shots - weighing from 15 to 65 pounds.
 
Select a circle hook appropriately sized for your target species, and then make a bridle from heavy-gauge wire. One twist is enough to secure it to the hook shank. Form a loop and bend back the tag end so it clips on the stern of the bridle.
 
Run the bridle through the eyes of a large soft-plastic bait, clip it closed, and you're ready.
 
This same rig also works with live baits.
- Steve Hicks
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