What are trout fishing rigs? Trout fishing rigs are simply pieces of terminal tackle and/or fishing hooks and baits that are rigged together and used when fishing for trout. The configuration of the tackle is the most important aspect of any fishing rig and this is especially true when it comes to these types of fishing rigs. Various forms of “fishing rigs” have been used by saltwater anglers for what seems like forever, but are many times overlooked by the freshwater angler.
The trout fishing rigs being outlined below are obviously for freshwater anglers that fish for trout. These fishing rigs are effective for the four main species of freshwater trout; rainbow, cutthroat, brown, and brook trout. As a matter of fact these fishing rigs are also effective for other freshwater species of fish such as large and small mouth bass. In any case, if you consider yourself a trout fisherman you need to be aware of and use these simple trout fishing rigs when you are on the water.
The GH Rig – The GH rig is short for the “gang hook” rig and is most effective when used while trout fishing in rivers and streams. This simple trout rig is made up of a set of gang hooks, a swivel, a few split shot sinkers, and a worm. The GH rig is most effective when fished in the flowing waters of a river or stream where trout are present. Although this trout fishing rig is extremely simple, it’s effectiveness lies in its simplicity. A swivel that is the same size as the pound test of the line you are fishing is added to the end of your fishing line. Now a set of gang hooks that matches the size of your fishing line is added to the opposite end of the swivel. A worm, either synthetic (such as Powerbait trout worms) or live, is added to the set of gang hooks as bait. Split shot sinkers are now added to the GH rig above the swivel for weight. The number and size of the split shot will vary depending on water depth and current conditions, so experimentation is the key to getting the proper amount of weight. The goal is to have your GH rig bounce or “roll” along the bottom as it flows naturally with the current. The GH rig is one of the most simple and effective trout rigs that you will ever find.
The CB Rig – The CB is short for “casting bubble” rig and this rig is a way for traditional spin fishermen to fish while using artificial flies as bait. Of the two trout fishing rigs being outlined in this article this rig is most effective when used in very little or no current at all. Many trout fishermen use the CB rig to go trout fishing in lakes and ponds where trout are present. A casting bubble is threaded onto your fishing line and a swivel is tied to the end of the line to act as a “stopper” for the casting bubble. A tapered leader (from 5-9 feet in length) is now attached to the other end of the swivel. An artificial fly is tied to the end of the leader and you are ready to go. The casting bubble is now submerged and filled with water to add weight (the amount of water that is added depends on if you want to fish your fly on the surface or under the water). The CB trout fishing rig is now cast out and retrieved to entice trout into biting. When it comes trout fishing rigs, this one is also very effective, especially to anyone who doesn’t “fly fish”.
