Rig

Running leger

A sliding weight above a swivel and hooklink: the fish can take the bait without feeling the weight.
Use this rig in the builder
Running leger rig diagram with numbered parts123456

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

How it works

The weight slides freely on the line, stopped by a bead and a swivel. When a fish picks the bait up it can run with it without feeling the weight, which makes it a good all-round bottom rig in dams and rivers.

Best for
Bottom fishing for barbel, yellowfish and carp in dams and slow rivers.
Conditions
Dams and slow rivers with a clean bottom.

Parts list

  1. 1

    Main line. 10 to 20 lb mono.

  2. 2

    Sliding weight. A bomb or flat weight, 20 to 80 g.

  3. 3

    Bead. Protects the knot from the weight.

  4. 4

    Swivel. Stops the weight sliding onto the hooklink.

  5. 5

    Hooklink. About 40 to 60 cm.

  6. 6

    Hook and bait. Worm, liver or a boilie.

Build it

  1. 1

    Slide the weight and a bead onto the main line.

  2. 2

    Tie the line to a swivel.

  3. 3

    Tie a 50 cm hooklink to the other end of the swivel.

  4. 4

    Tie the hook on and put on your bait.

  5. 5

    Cast and tighten up until you feel the weight settle.

Strengths and trade-offs

Strengths

  • Fish feel less resistance
  • Cheap and simple

Watch out for

  • Can tangle on the cast

Simple and honest, but the sliding weight can tangle on the cast if the hooklink is too long.

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

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