Rig

Pulley rig

A sliding hook trace on a long sinker leader keeps the bait close behind the sinker for casting and lets it work free once the sinker lands.
Pulley rig rig diagram with numbered parts1234567

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

How it works

The pulley rig puts the bait right behind the sinker on the cast, so the rig flies like a dart. Once it lands, the trace slides up the leader and the bait can drift naturally. It is one of the best distance rigs for big baits.

Best for
Casting distance in rough surf with bigger baits.
Conditions
Rough surf, long casts, and big baits.

Parts list

  1. 1

    Main line. Braid or mono.

  2. 2

    Swivel. Joins the main line to the sinker leader.

  3. 3

    Sliding ring. Lets the hook trace slide up and down the leader.

  4. 4

    Hook trace. Short mono trace tied to the ring.

  5. 5

    Hook and bait. J or circle hook sized to the bait.

  6. 6

    Sinker leader. Heavy mono from swivel to sinker.

  7. 7

    Sinker. Pyramid or grapnel, depending on the wash.

Build it

  1. 1

    Tie a loop in the end of the main line and attach the shock leader.

  2. 2

    Slide the ring onto the leader and tie the sinker to the end.

  3. 3

    Tie the hook trace to the ring.

  4. 4

    Tie the hook to the other end of the trace.

  5. 5

    Bait up and check the ring slides freely.

Strengths and trade-offs

Strengths

  • Excellent casting distance
  • Bait stays tidy during the cast
  • Handles big baits

Watch out for

  • More parts to tie and check
  • Bait can bunch up under the sinker in short casts

Casts well, but takes longer to tie than a ledger. Check the sliding ring is smooth before every cast.

Hook sizes 3/0 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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