Single Swivel

May 72009

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Now I realize that this may sound like a simple proposition, but there are some simple things that can be done when fishing for smallmouth bass, that can increase your catch rates. Especially when it comes to fishing for smallmouth bass with live worms, and in the flowing waters of either a river or stream. First of all, I'll explain the most effective way ever devised to rig your live worm, then I'll explain the actual setup that will help you catch a smallmouth bass. This entire article will only take you a few minutes to read, and will enable you to become a much more effective angler.

First things first. The best way ever devised for presenting live worms as bait is called a set of gang hooks. A set of gang hooks is simply a pair of small hooks, tied in tandem, which enables live worms to be presented in an outstretched and natural manner. This is a far cry from what most anglers do with live worms, which is attempting to "thread" them onto a single hook. If gang hooks are employed when fishing with live worms, you're catch rates will literally double! I know this might sound crazy, but I know it's true from experience. I began using gang hooks more than 15 years ago, and know don't fish without them. Gang hooks are as much a part of my fishing repertoire as my rod and reel, and are the only way that I ever fish with live worms.

Before I explain the actual setup, lets discuss our line for a second. I personally use four pound test monofilament, and suggest that no line heavier than six-pound test be employed. Start by grabbing the end of your line and tying on a small barrel swivel (size 10 or 12). Now on the opposite end of the barrel swivel, tie on a pre tied set of gang hooks. Split shot sinkers are know added for weight, above the barrel swivel. The goal is to have your offering bounce off of the bottom as it flows naturally with the current of the river or stream, bouncing off the bottom the entire time. Obviously the number and size of the split shot will have to be adjusted, depending of the depth of the water and current flow. At this point a live worm is rigged on the set of gang hooks. If you are using large night crawlers, simply pinch them in half.

That's the rig. Pretty simple, huh? Now you cast into the current, close your bail, and let your offering flow naturally downstream, until it's below you, and the drift is over. Simply repeat this process as you move along the river or stream. If there are smallmouth bass in the river or stream that you're fishing, this set-up will help you catch them. It has worked for me for more than 15 years, and I know it will do the same for you. Once you try a set of Pre-Tied Gang Hooks, you'll wonder how you ever fished without them. They truly are the best way to fish a live worm.

Rumba Single Swivel: Lead