Carolina Rig for Flounder---But What Length?
Everyone reading this blog has probably used a Carolina Rig (sometimes called Fish Finder rig) for flounder when using live bait. For those not familiar with the term, it consists of a slip weight rigged above a swivel and attached to a leader. This rigging has probably produced more flounder than any other in the world being popular from the East Coast to South Texas.
The big question is what is the right leader length?
Is it a foot? Is it six inches?
I've used both and and have even used 18-inch leaders while targeting flounder in deeper water. What is your preferred length and why does it work?
Let us know as the spring flounder season approaches. We'd love to read your comments.
The big question is what is the right leader length?
Is it a foot? Is it six inches?
I've used both and and have even used 18-inch leaders while targeting flounder in deeper water. What is your preferred length and why does it work?
Let us know as the spring flounder season approaches. We'd love to read your comments.
I use an 8" to 10" leeder on my Carolina rig. Seems to work the best, for me anyway.
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I've always made mine 12" to 18" using 18" when I felt I wanted my live bait to have more movement.
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I use from 6 to 15 inches of leader depending on how fast the current is moving. The faster the current the shorter the leader. I also use heavier weight in stonger currents. One of my biggest problems is having the flounder swallow the hook. I do a lot of catch and release and wind up leaving hooks in the fishes throut. Does any one any suggestions?
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Agreed on faster current/shorter leader.
They do tend to swallow Carolina rigs. I have had luck using a variety of offset hooks like Daiichi Circle Wide that tend to hook in the corner of the mouth instead of the guts. Avoid treble hooks at all times. I've heard some good things about the Owner MUTU circle light hooks. Has anyone tried them on flatties?
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Marcus took the words out of my mouth. Live bait rules.
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