Rig

Clipped-down pulley rig

A pulley rig with the hook trace clipped to the sinker for the cast, to cut drag and add distance.
Use this rig in the builder
Clipped-down pulley rig rig diagram with numbered parts1234567

The numbers match the parts list. The drawing is stylised, not to scale.

How it works

The clipped-down pulley is the long-range version of the pulley rig. The hook and bait are held against the sinker during the cast, which removes the drag that bait causes in flight. When the rig hits the water, the clip lets go.

Best for
Long casts into a headwind, or when you need to reach the second gully.
Conditions
Headwinds and long casts.

Parts list

  1. 1

    Main line. Braid or mono.

  2. 2

    Swivel. Joins the main line to the sinker leader.

  3. 3

    Sliding ring. Hook trace slides on the leader.

  4. 4

    Hook trace. Short mono trace tied to the ring.

  5. 5

    Hook. Often a circle or strong J hook.

  6. 6

    Bait clip. Holds the trace and bait against the sinker for the cast.

  7. 7

    Sinker. Usually a pyramid or flat sinker.

Build it

  1. 1

    Build the pulley rig as normal.

  2. 2

    Pull the hook trace down alongside the leader.

  3. 3

    Clip the hook, or a loop on the trace, to the sinker's clip.

  4. 4

    Bait up, cast smoothly, and let the clip release as the rig settles.

Strengths and trade-offs

Strengths

  • Best casting distance
  • Streamlined in a headwind

Watch out for

  • Fiddly to bait
  • Clip must release cleanly or the bait stays under the sinker

Gives the best distance, but the bait sits close to the sinker until it releases, so check the clip lets go.

Knots and hooks

Hook sizes 4/0 to 8/0 suit this rig. See the hook guide.

Rig and hook recommendations are pending review by a local angler. Check bag limits and gear rules for your area before you fish.

Gear

Gear that suits this rig

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