A dredge rig isn’t the most visually appealing of lures, but put it underwater and you’ve got a pretty good version of a school of small fish. You can cast an dredge rig or troll, but either way it’s an effective technique to catch large game fish. While you’re shopping for gear at Eat My Tackle consider the possibilities offered by a dredge rig.
Design and Function
Usually four are of the same length (approx. 3 in) and one is longer by 3 inches. Each one is hooked to a head that’s joined to your reel line’s terminal end. The longest piece functions as the central point, and each one comes with a crimped loop along the terminal for the leader and clip swivel where you attach the lure or hook.
Lures and Baits
Some anglers equip their dredge rigs with metal spoons, jig heads, plastics and assorted types of baits. If you’re looking for some striped bass inshore, try different colored tubing that look like they’re spinning while being pulled in the water. These tubing look like eels and should draw predatory fish.
If you like you can use squid strips, fish and other natural baits, and they do provide the benefit of scent to further entice game. Furthermore a dredge rig gives you the opportunity to catch several fish at the same time. dredge rigs are flexible, but if you’re in shallow waters you just need small weights to set your rig before the fish as you troll at low speeds. As your trolling and depth increase, the weight need goes up as well.
Types of dredge Rigs
There are two types available, those for casting and the other for trolling. Trolling dredge rigs are stronger, larger and heavier compared to those made for casting. The connector on trolling rigs is built from metal while the ones designed for casting are constructed from plastics.
If you’re going to use heavy duty rigs you need a medium gauge tackle with a robust trolling rod (a standard reel or spinning reel with a 25 to 40 lb. test line). You’ll also want a braided line because of its small diameter and durability. Depending on your fishing style a monofilament may be required on certain occasions.
The dredge rigs made for casting looks similar to the ones made for trolling but they’re lighter and smaller. You’ll want to use these rigs for inshore and onshore angling, and for the best results you should look for a tackle in the medium light to medium gauge level. Spinners would also come in handy if you’re concerned about backlashes.
With a dredge rig your bait can fall slowly down the water and swim up just like a typical school of fish. It is these movements that make dredge rigs a good option for luring predatory fish who may be hesitant to come out. And since these rigs allow you to catch more than one fish, it’s exactly what you need for making extensive hauls.
