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RIGGING GUIDE

Surf fish-finder rig

Hold bait in current with the weight on a sliding sinker carrier.

FishingCritic is research-led, using maker data and published sources. We have no hands-on test results for this edition.

What parts do you need?

  • Fish-finder sinker slide
  • Bead and barrel swivel
  • 18–24 in of 40 lb mono leader starting example
  • 4/0–5/0 inline circle; 1 oz pier / 3 oz surf sinker

Sizes are our starting examples, informed by the source below. Adjust to current, bait and the rod’s total lure rating.

NYSDEC: Getting started saltwater fishing

Standing / main line

Tag end / leader

Grey shapes are tackle; panels show assembly, not product dimensions.

How do you assemble it?

  1. Step 1: Thread the main line through the sinker slide, then add the bead. Clip a suitable sinker to the slide.
    01 Thread the main line through the sinker slide, then add the bead. Clip a suitable sinker to the slide.
  2. Step 2: Tie main line to swivel, then leader to the other eye. The slide must move freely above the swivel.
    02 Tie main line to swivel, then leader to the other eye. The slide must move freely above the swivel.
  3. Step 3: Tie the inline circle hook. Use bait legal for the target, keep its point clear and check total casting load.
    03 Tie the inline circle hook. Use bait legal for the target, keep its point clear and check total casting load.

What can go wrong?

Do not lock the slide onto the leader. The 3 oz example requires the surf rod below; it exceeds the lighter pier outfit’s range.

Which knots do you need?

Uni knot San Diego jam knot

Where do these facts come from?

The links identify source URLs and check dates. The source data records access limits.