Deep Sea Fishing Rigs

Deep-sea fishing is a form of recreational fishing that is done on a boat, off shore, at depths of 100 feet or more. Deep sea fishing requires special equipment, technique and presentation.

The most common deep-sea fishing techniques include trolling, bottom fishing, chumming, popping and jigging with lures. Deep-sea fishing can be done using a variety of fresh baits and artificial lures including squid, live fish, cut bait, jigs and spoons. Using the correct fishing technique and bait is essential to catching most deep-sea game fish species.

Having the right presentation of your bait is also key to a successful deep-sea fishing experience. There are a variety of deep sea fishing rigs that will get your bait in front of your target fish and present it in a natural way.

The deep-sea fishing rig you choose should be determined primarily by your target game fish and the deep sea fishing technique being employed. When selecting a rig, also consider location and water conditions.

Below are the top recommended rigs for deep sea fishing. Review the description of each fishing rig to determine which is best suited for your next fishing trip.

Fish Finder Rig

Fish Finder Rig

A surf fishing rig used to catch a large variety of fishing including stripers and redfish

Carolina Rig

Carolina Rig

Used for casting and dragging across a target area where fish may be located

Knocker Rig

Knocker Rig

Is used for catching fish near the seafloor. Keeps hooked fish away from structure

Chicken Rig

Chicken Rig

An easy bottom rig used for catching schooling fish near the bottom or cover

Slip Sinker Rig

Slip Sinker Rig

Ideal for still fishing or drift fishing the bottom for light biting fish such as walleye

Three Way Swivel Rig

Three Way Swivel Rig

A versatile rig for fishing natural or artificial bait from shallow to deep water

Popping Cork Rig

Popping Cork Rig

Simulates surface feeding bait fish and commotion whereby attracting game fish

Sabiki Rig

Sabiki Rig

A line of several small hooks. is used to primarily for catching smaller bait fish

Balloon Fishing Rig

Balloon Fishing Rig

Allows anglers to float their bait to different areas and cover more water fishing

Two Hook Bottom Fishing Rig

Two Hook Bottom Fishing Rig

Double hook rig used by saltwater anglers to increase the likelihood of a bite

Wishbone Rig

Wishbone Rig

Designed specifically for targeting flat fish including Plaice, Flounder and Dabs