Crawfishing season is upon us again in Louisiana and across the South, but some go about it in a different way. While most anglers use nets to catch live crawfish from swamps and bayous, an alternative method has gained popularity – rigging plastic lures to mimic the real thing. There is an art to making these fake crawfish look enticing enough to trick wary bass and trout into striking.
In this post, I’ll break down the simple steps on how to rig a plastic crawfish lure so you can get in on the action without disturbing the natural habitat or catching perishable live bait. With some colorful sculpin, brush hog, or crawfish patterns and the proper rigging technique, you’ll catch fish with these fake critters in no time. Let’s get started!
What Will You Need?
Before we begin, let’s gather the necessary materials for rigging a plastic crawfish lure. You will need:
- Plastic Crawfish Lure: Choose from various brands and styles, such as Zoom Super Speed Craw or Strike King Rage Tail Craw.
- Wide Gap Hook: A size 2/0 or 3/0 hook is ideal for most plastic crawfish lures.
- Fishing Line: Use a 6 to 8-pound test monofilament line for best results.
- Split Shot: A small lead weight to help your lure sink and stay in place.
- Swivel: This will prevent your line from getting tangled as you retrieve the lure.
Once you have all these items, it’s time to rig your plastic crawfish lure.
10 Easy Steps on How to Rig a Plastic Crawfish
Step 1. Thread the Line:
Start by threading the end of your fishing line through the eye of the swivel. Once it’s through, double back and make five wraps around the main line. Pass the end of the line through the loop closest to the eye of the swivel, moisten the knot for smooth tightening, then pull it tight. Trim any excess string.
Step 2. Attach the Split Shot:
Next, you need to attach the split shot to your line. Take the split picture and place it about 18-24 inches above the swivel on your line. Once in position, close the split shot around the line by pressing it with a pair of pliers until it stays in place. This will allow your lure to sink and move naturally in the water, mimicking a real crawfish.
Step 3. Rig the Crawfish Lure:
Now it’s time for the crucial part – rigging the plastic crawfish lure. Take your wide gap hook and insert the point into the nose of the crawfish lure. Push the pin until it’s roughly halfway through the body, twist it around and exit it. Ensure the body of the crawfish is in line with the hook’s shank. The hook’s point should be slightly exposed at the top of the lure’s body to allow for a good hook set when a fish strikes. Remember, the goal is to make the lure look as life-like as possible in the water.
Step 4. Test the Lure:
Once your lure is rigged, it’s time to put it to the test. Toss your rigged crawfish into the water and observe its movement. It should look as natural as possible, resembling the scuttling of a real crawfish.
If it doesn’t, you should adjust the positioning of the hook. Once you’re satisfied with the movement, you can cast your line and start fishing! Remember, the key is patience and persistence. It might take some time before you get your first bite, but with a well-rigged plastic crawfish lure, you’re sure to attract some attention from the fish.
Step 5. Casting and Retrieving the Lure:
Casting and retrieving your rig is just as crucial as the rigging process. Aim for areas where fish might hide or feed, such as under rocks or near vegetation. Once you’ve cast your line, let the lure sink to the bottom.
Then, start retrieving it slowly, allowing it to pause occasionally. This mimics the natural behavior of a crawfish, moving in spurts and then stopping. Remember to keep your rod tip low to the water and maintain a slow, steady retrieve speed for the most realistic presentation. Be ready for a strike at any time, as fish can attack when the lure is stationary.
Step 6. Detecting and Responding to Strikes:
Once your lure is in the water and you’re replicating the natural crawfish movements, keep a keen eye on the line and a steady hand on the rod. Fish strikes can often be subtle, especially with bottom-feeding species you’re targeting with a crawfish lure.
Watch for any unusual movement or a sudden tug – these are indications that a fish has taken the bait. When you feel a strike, give a firm but measured tug on the rod to set the hook. Remember, it’s crucial not to jerk too hard; otherwise, you may pull the lure out of the fish’s mouth. Once you’ve hooked the fish, reel it in steadily and smoothly.
Step 7. Unhooking and Releasing the Fish:
Once you’ve reeled in the fish, it’s time to unhook it safely. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove the hook from the fish’s mouth gently. Be careful not to damage the fish as you do this, especially if you plan to catch and release. Hold the fish horizontally and support its weight to reduce stress. If the fish has swallowed the hook, it’s best to cut the line as close to it as possible and release it with the hook still in place.
Hooks are typically made of steel and will rust and dissolve over time. Once unhooked, gently place the fish back in the water. Allow it to regain its strength before letting it swim off. You can continue your fishing adventure with your plastic crawfish lure successfully tested.
Step 8. Maintenance and Care:
Keeping your gear in top condition is as crucial as knowing how to rig a plastic crawfish. After each fishing trip, rinse your lures, hooks, and line with fresh water to remove salt, dirt, or grime. Dry them thoroughly before storing to prevent rust and degradation. Check your bar for any signs of wear or damage and replace if necessary. With proper maintenance and care, your plastic crawfish lures will serve you well for many fishing excursions.
Step 9. Practice Makes Perfect:
The art of rigging and using a plastic crawfish lure successfully comes with practice. Spend time familiarizing yourself with the rigging process and try different techniques to see what works best. Experiment with varying colors of lure and sizes to see what the fish in your chosen location respond to best. Practice your casting and retrieving techniques, and learn to read the signs of a fish strike. Remember, patience is vital in fishing. Even professional agrarians have days when they don’t get a bite.
Step 10. Enjoy the Experience:
Above all, fishing is about enjoying the experience. The feel of the rod in your hands, the tranquility of the water, the anticipation of a bite make fishing an enriching pastime. The journey of learning how to rig and use a plastic crawfish lure efficiently is just as important as the destination – catching the fish. So, take your time, enjoy the process, and appreciate the moments of quiet reflection that fishing provides. After all, a day spent fishing is never a day wasted.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll soon be a pro at rigging and using plastic crawfish lures for fishing. So grab your gear, head to the water, and have fun!
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Using Bright Colors in Clear Water: In clear water conditions, avoid using brightly colored crawfish as they can appear unnatural and scare off fish. Opt for more muted, natural tones instead.
- Don’t Ignore the Season: The color of natural crawfish can change with the season. Pay attention to this factor. Studying the local crawfish during different seasons can guide your color choices.
- Avoid Poor Hook Placement: A poorly placed hook can render your lure ineffective. Avoid rigging the crawfish in a way that hinders its movement or makes the hook visible to the fish.
- Don’t Forget to Check Local Regulations: Some fishing areas have specific rules and regulations regarding lure use. Avoid potential fines or penalties by ensuring your plastic crawfish and fishing practices adhere to these regulations.
- Don’t Assume One Size Fits All: Fish species vary in size, and so does their prey. Avoid using the same size plastic crawfish for all fish types. Tailor your lure to the fish you’re aiming to catch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, learning how to rig a plastic crawfish can significantly enhance your fishing experience and increase your chances of catching that trophy-worthy fish you’ve been dreaming of. By understanding the various rigs and techniques discussed and the different types of plastic crawfish available, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to outsmart even the most elusive fish in the water.
So don’t hesitate to try these methods on your next fishing trip – who knows, you may reel in a personal best catch! And if you’re still skeptical, just remember that practice makes perfect, and experimentation is critical in fishing.
So grab some plastic crawfish and get ready to make noise in those murky waters! Trust us, once you see those bites rolling in and those rods bending, you’ll be thankful for reading this blog post. Happy fishing!