Ugly Stik
2.13m
7–21 g · 6–15 lb
Rig
Short-trace rock and surf rig
A short, sturdy trace off a swivel on a fixed sinker, for fishing close in over reef and rocky ground.
The numbers match the parts list. The drawing is stylised, not to scale.
How it works
A short trace keeps the bait close to the sinker and close to the bottom, which suits fish that feed hard against rock and reef. Galjoen and blacktail are the classic targets.
- Best for
- Rock and surf fishing in white water for galjoen and blacktail.
- Conditions
- White water, close in, reef and rocks.
Parts list
- 1
Main line. Mono in the 15 to 25 lb range.
- 2
Swivel. Joins the main line and the sinker leader.
- 3
Sinker leader. Short mono to the sinker.
- 4
Short trace. About 30 to 50 cm.
- 5
Hook and red bait. Small octopus or baitholder.
- 6
Pyramid sinker. Holds in the wash.
Build it
- 1
Tie the main line to the top of the swivel.
- 2
Tie a short leader and the sinker to the bottom of the swivel.
- 3
Tie a second short length of line and hook to the same swivel ring.
- 4
Bait with red bait, redworm or mussel.
- 5
Check the knots and the hook point.
Strengths and trade-offs
Strengths
- Bait close to the bottom
- Short and strong
Watch out for
- Snags on rough ground
- Not a distance rig
Excellent presentation on reef, but gets snagged easily on rough ground, so carry plenty of spare traces.
Knots and hooks
Hook sizes 1/0 to 4/0 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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