Mackerel Rig AKA Float Rig

The float rig is a great rig for mackerel fishing, especially if you are in deeper water. The float rig allows you to easily adjust the dept that you wish to fish. It also helps when casting. Have you ever tried casting a fixed float rig with 10 feet of line hanging down. If you have then you could probably submit it to America's funniest video's and be a runner up, heck you might even win!

Material

You will need a float, 1/4 ounce lead (note some floats come with lead, if so you will not need lead) #7 barrel swivel, bobber stop, a bead and 30lb test leader.

Step 1

Place the bobber stop onto the main line. If fishing for mackerel, 10 to 12lb test line should be sufficient. After the bobber stop you should add the bead. Slide the cork onto the main line. It should now look like the picture above.

Step 2

Next you want to add the 1/4 ounce lead and then the #7 barrel swivel. I like to use the blood knot to tie the line to the swivel. Your rig should now look like the image above.

Step 3

You should then tie your 30lb test mono to your swivel using a blood knot or a knot of your choice. I usually use about 2-1/2 feet of leader. Then tie your 1/0 to 2/0 long shank hook to the end of the leader. That will complete this rig. It really is a very simple, but effective rig. You can use this rig for a variety of species such as Cobia, but of course you would have to use larger hooks, leader, swivel etc...If you have further questions about this rig just post them on the Fishing forum and I will be happy to answer them.

Completed mackerel or float rig!