my Carolina Rig
The C-rig is my go 2 rig for summer fishing. There are a thousand different ways to fish the C-rig. It can be used for any fish that relates to the bottom. The important thing is to match the rod, reel, line, sinker weight, hook and leader and bait type to the targeted species.
I will describe my bass rig.
Lets start with the rod. I use a 7 foot medium heavy rod. I have used 7ft 6inch flipping sticks too. They work great. I want a long handle so I can 2 hand cast the heavy weight and for leverage against my side while working the rod or setting the hook.
I prefer a wide spool reel like the Curado. The ratio of this reel is 6.2 to 1. I have used the Revos too. I prefer the wide high speed reels. The wide spools will hold enough 20 lb mono to make long cast. The stretch in 20 lb is not so bad that I can't get a hookset on the end of a long cast. I never use less than 20 lb test on the reel.
Next on the line is a plastic bead of sufficient diameter as to not go thru thru tip top. Next is a home made brass carolina rig. Make sure the pointed end of the weight is pointed toward the rod....lol I have had to cut a few off and retie.
The home made rig is made up from : Nylon covered stainless steel wire @ 45 lb test, two #7 swivels and desired brass weight and 2 -#4 crimping sleeves. I put different color and type beads on for a desired affect. Plastic for a soft click....brass and glass for more aggressive clicking. I always put a bead in front of the weight. That will reduce hangups.
The leader is usually a 12 to 15 lb test mono or fluorocarbon. The standard starting length for me is about 30 inches. I have gone to 4 feet but that is rare. I like 6 to 9 inch lizards, hogs and when the bite is tuff I'll downsize to a 2/0 hook and use a centipede. The big lizards and worms I use in the heat of summer.
The cast.... Use a 2 handed lob cast. Be careful of your back cast. You'll have about 3 feet of line behind you. Just before the rig hits the water stop the spool with your thumb. This will straighten the rig out and help prevent tangles. Let the rig settle to the bottom. I tighten the line and use a side way drag and reel down and drag again. I'll drag about 5 feet at a time. The hookset is the same...sideways.... not overhead like a texas rig . I work this bait quickly and with rhythm. The sinker must not leave the bottom!!!! I sometimes when searching a hump or point make a long cast and drag the bait with the trolling motor looking for the " Sweet Spot" amazing what I have caught doing this.
I have posted a few pics to help explain my rig.
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