Wacky Style

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Basically this type of presentation relies on the weight and shape of the plastic baits to determine the rate of fall and action. If you use a stiffer bait, like our SinkSlo, then the action will be a lengthy side to side. However, if you use our Tickle Worm, then the fall will be more like an undulation action (definitely more lifelike). There are so many baits to use but the best ones are skinny, soft and 4” or longer.

All you have to do is tie a small X-Wide Gap or Drop Shot hook directly to your mainline.

I recommend either 6 or 8 lb. Extra limp monofilament.

Bottom Bouncing

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Bottom bouncing is a very effective technique for fishing deeper pools more methodically. Although the leader length may vary from 36” to 12’ depending on the type of water and the species of Salmon you are targeting.

This technique allows the angler to use a multitude of baits, the most popular being cured or treated roe.

The idea behind this rigging is to offer the bait as natural as possible while maintaining control of the rig with your rod tip. After you cast slightly upstream, maintain in contact with the weight/bottom by reeling in any slack line (until line is taut) and lifting your rod tip slightly allowing the weight to bounce off the rocks. Keep in mind when offering any bait maintaining proper drifting speed can be crucial to whether or not you hit a fish or not.

When the fish strikes your bottom bouncing rig, your rod tip usually drops with a spongy weight, set the hook and hold on. Take a look at our Leader Savers which will save you time and money while bottom bouncing for salmon or other large fish.

Bottom Fishing: Lakes

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Fishing in a lake has so many options. This page will show you what to do when you are fishing from the bank/shore. There are many baits you can use in this application but the basics are dew worms, flavored marshmallows or Power Bait.

The Power Bait comes in a few different styles, all of which float: Nuggets, Eggs or Paste. The floating characteristics is what makes them so effective.

It is important to keep your line taut while waiting for a bite. That means before you put your rod in a rod holder or lean it up against something, you need to reel in the line until the rod tip bends slightly. This way you will be able to sense even the lightest bite.

Float Fishing

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 Float Fishing for Salmon or Steelhead

This is a typical float fishing set up. Obviously, this will vary among experienced anglers but the basics are covered here.

The foam floats allow easy adjustment when fishing a variety of water but the cork floats have a better buoyancy and if you snag the bottom and break of you do not run the risk of losing your float.
All that needs to be added is your offering on the hook. This could be cured roe, wool, single egg, gooey bob, corkie, spin-n-glo, marabou jigs or a Colorado blade. Many of these can be used in combination as well.

Float fishing takes practice and practice makes perfect.

More Rigging Tips