This rig is designed for ‘scratching’ – switching to small hooks and small baits to catch any fish which are present when the larger specimens are not biting. Scratching is usually done by anglers when they are in a competition where catching even a small fish could be the difference between winning and losing. However, many pleasure anglers also use scratching rigs when they are potentially facing a blank session and simply want to catch the lesser, smaller fish which may be present. This rig features three hooks as this will create a better scent trail and allow three different baits to be used which will increase the chances of attracting fish to the rig. The hook size is also small as this rig will only be used when decent sized fish cannot be caught and smaller, less desirable fish (such as rockling, pouting and poor cod) are therefore being targeted. Some anglers also use scratching rigs in order to catch mini-species such as blenny, goby and sea scorpions by stepping down to even smaller hooks. This rig can be easily adapted to fish in rough ground by swapping the link for a Gemini breaker or similar weak link release.
Components needed:
- Large swivel x 1
- Small swivels x 3
- Link x 1
- Crimps x 6
- Micro beads x 6
- Sequins x 3
- Size 4 – 6 hooks x 3
- 60lb line
- 20lb snood line
- Neoprene/rig tubing stop knot