A drift rig is a basic bottom fishing rig ideal for fishing fluke, catfish, walleye, and other bottom feeding game fish species. The rig is made using a snelled 2/0 to 3/0 wide gap, Aberdeen, or circle hook, a 1/2 to 2 oz bank sinker attached with a surgeon’s loop to a 2 to 3 leader, and a 3-way swivel. The three-way swivel reduces line tangles and twists, especially when fishing in current.

The drift rig is especially adept for drift fishing fluke (flounder). Natural baits, such as squid, spearing, and sand eel are best for targeting fluke; however, it can also be baited with artificial flies, jigs, and lures when targeting other fish species. The size of the bank sinker and hook depend on both fish species and water conditions. When fishing for large fluke user larger strips of squid or cut bait.

The basic drift rig can be easily adapted for fishing catfish by adding a cigar float or peg float to the leader line about 10 inches above the hook. The float allows the bait to sit just off the bottom. Effective baits include strips of buffalo or carp (leave the skin on), chunks of cut shad, chicken livers, shrimp, or nightcrawlers. Any bait that stinks will typically get a catfish to bite. Using a circle hook will ensure any catfish that strikes will hook itself.

When drifting a drift rig across uneven or rough terrain, you can replace the bank sinker with a slinky weight to reduce snags. When fighting strong winds or current a heavier sinker weight may be required.