Ugly Stik
2.13m
7–21 g · 6–15 lb
Rig
Running ledger
A sinker slides on the main line above a swivel, so a fish can pick up the bait without feeling the weight.
The numbers match the parts list. The drawing is stylised, not to scale.
How it works
The running ledger is the simplest bottom rig and the one most surf anglers start on. The sinker slides freely on the line, so a fish that picks up the bait only feels the bait, not the weight.
- Best for
- Bait fishing in gullies and along the back line when fish are bite-shy.
- Conditions
- Calm to moderate surf, gullies, and the back line.
Parts list
- 1
Main line or shock leader. The sinker slides on this section.
- 2
Running sinker. Bomb, pyramid or grip; sized for the current.
- 3
Bead. Protects the swivel knot from the sinker.
- 4
Swivel. Stops the sinker sliding onto the trace and cuts line twist.
- 5
Mono trace. About 60 to 100 cm.
- 6
Single hook with bait. Octopus or suicide hook for most baits.
Build it
- 1
Thread the shock leader through the eye of the sinker.
- 2
Add a small bead to protect the knot, then tie the leader to one end of the swivel.
- 3
Tie the trace to the other end of the swivel.
- 4
Tie the hook to the end of the trace.
- 5
Bait up and check the sinker slides freely on the leader.
Strengths and trade-offs
Strengths
- Very sensitive to bites
- Quick and cheap to tie
- Few knots to fail
Watch out for
- Bait can tangle on the cast
- Less distance than a pulley rig
- Sinker can bounce in a strong wash
Sensitive, but the sinker can slide down on the cast, so use a bead and keep the cast smooth.
Knots and hooks
Hook sizes 1/0 to 6/0 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
Shimano
3.05m
20–60 g · 8–17 lb
Okuma
3.96m
100–200 g · 15–30 lb
Penn
3.66m
80–150 g · 12–25 lb
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