One of the most common soft plastic fishing rigs is the Texas rig, also known as the T-rig. Learning how to rig this effective presentation is best to hook a fish when bass fishing.
The Texas rig is a versatile setup with many variations popular among anglers. It started way back when fishers fished plastic worms for bass in heavy cover, as plastic worms were the common Texas-style bait.
It has a great performance in heavy cover and can be rigged with any hook style. Anglers prefer this versatile rig as it is suitable in any water, may it be fresh or saltwater, and with any soft plastic lure.
What You’ll Need
- Bullet-style weight
- Leader line
- Hook
- Soft plastic lure
How to Tie Texas Rig
- Take the fishing line through your bullet-style weight and the eye your preferred hook.
- Then, tie your Palomar knot. Although, other knots are acceptable, depending on what you prefer
- After tightening the knot, cut its tag end
- Get your favorite soft plastic lure, may it be plastic worms or Yums, and pass the hook point through the nose of your plastic and exit about ¼ an inch down.
- Move your plastic up the hook towards the straight shank, and rotate it to lock on the shank
- Line the straight shank to your plastic and enter the hook point to the bait body for a weedless presentation.
How to Use the Texas Rig
There are many techniques for using the Texas rig when fishing, especially for the bass species. One of the best presentations for a lethargic bass in colder water is dragging a Texas rig after casting it out and letting it fall to the bottom of the water.
Another presentation is the lift and drop technique, which is useful in warmer months when bass feeds actively. Lifting your bait and letting it fall back to the bottom allows the fish to strike as it falls.
Some anglers love to fish this rig without a weight but still use the same technique. When you do this, make sure the bait doesn’t twist your line and cast it to a mid and shallow depth.
Texas Rig Advantages
- Snag-resistant
- Weedless
- Presentable when you cast it into the water
- Castable
- Versatile (freshwater/saltwater)
Disadvantages
- Takes a bit of practice to hook your bait properly
Texas Rig Tips
Some people like to put a bead in between the hook and the weight. But it all depends on your preference. Nailing how to tie this rig will not be as effective if you don’t use the right technique in casting it.
Anglers favor the Texas rig as their go-to setup as it is easy and incredibly effective when fishing the grassy water or along the bottom. Additionally, the fish love to attack the lure as it sinks to the bottom.
Texas Rig Alternative
A good substitute for the T-rig is the Shaky Head Rig with soft plastic. This provides more finesse in presentation and is effective in catching fish in deeper water situations. This rig is best for fishing around rocks, wood, and boat docks.
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