⚓
Lure
Carolina Rig
A separated weight and hook rig with a long leader - lets soft plastics float naturally over the bottom for cruising bass.
Water: Freshwater
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cost: $80+
📖 Overview
Where the Texas rig delivers a bait tight against a weight, the Carolina rig separates them by a leader of 18-48 inches. The heavy weight drags the bottom while the buoyant plastic bait floats above, alive and natural-looking. Deadly on flats, points, and open-water structure where bass patrol at fixed depths.
🎒 Gear Needed
7-7.5 ft heavy baitcasting rod, quality reel, 15-20 lb main line, egg sinker (3/4 to 1 oz), swivel, 18-48 inch fluorocarbon leader, EWG hook, floating soft plastic.
📋 Technique Steps
1) Thread egg sinker onto main line, then bead (protects knot). 2) Tie swivel. 3) Attach leader to swivel. 4) Tie hook and rig plastic Texas-style. 5) Cast, let sink. 6) Slow drag with rod - not reel - to feel bottom transitions.