Alexei Volkov
Plastic worms are a popular choice for anglers due to their versatility and effectiveness in various fishing conditions. They can be used to attract bass, walleye, and other species by mimicking the movement and appearance of a worm, a natural food source. When it comes to rigging plastic worms for walleye, there are several techniques that can be employed, such as the classic spinnerbait rig, the Texas rig, and the use of new-age plastics like Berkley Gulp! which are chemically engineered to appeal to a walleye's sense of smell. Additionally, factors such as water temperature, clarity, and fish feeding behavior can influence the effectiveness of plastic worms. The right equipment, such as rods, reels, lines, and hooks, can also enhance the overall fishing experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic worm type | Berkley Gulp! |
| Rig type | Texas Rig, Carolina Rig, Wacky Rig, Drop Shot Rig, Shaky Head Rig |
| Hook type | 1/0-5/0 offset worm hook, 1/0-3/0 drop shot hooks, 1/0-5/0 wide gap hook |
| Hook placement | Through the nose, back into the worm's body |
| Scent | Yes |
| Sinker material | Brass, ceramic, steel, tin, tungsten, biodegradable eco material |
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What You'll Learn
Using a Texas rig
The Texas rig is one of the most popular ways to fish a plastic worm due to its effectiveness and versatility. It can be used with any structure, through weeds and grass, and at any depth. The size of the worm and the weight can be varied to change the rate of fall, and you can fish it as slowly or as quickly as you like.
To set up a Texas rig, start by slipping a bullet sinker onto your line by inserting the line into the pointed end of the sinker. Brass or ceramic sinkers are preferable to lead. Then, insert about a quarter of an inch of the point of the hook straight into the top of the worm. Keep the worm straight so that the hook goes back into the same side that it came out of. Push the point all the way through the worm, then push up on the worm slightly so you can slip the point of the hook just under the surface of the plastic. When the point is hidden, the rig is called "weedless" or "skin-hooked". Rigged like this, the worm will slip through weeds without getting snagged, but it is still easy to set the hook.
The Texas rig is also effective with live worms, although it is a little trickier to set up. Hook the worm through the nose and push the barb out the bottom, then rebury the hook in the centre of the bait. Live worms are softer and tastier than rubber, so the hook point does not need to be exposed. Bury it in the worm, but when you feel a bite, strike hard to move the hook.
Many anglers use scent on their plastics to increase their attractiveness to the fish.
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Choosing the right hook
For Texas and Carolina rigs, an offset worm hook in the size range of 1/0-5/0 is typically used. The offset design gives the lure a more natural appearance and allows for a weedless presentation, preventing snags. If you're using a larger worm or bait, you'll want to opt for a larger hook within this size range.
The Wacky Rig and Drop Shot Rig call for smaller hooks in the range of 1/0-3/0. These smaller hooks simplify rigging the lure and allow the lure to remain suspended in the water without sinking too quickly.
When rigging a worm for walleye, a classic choice is a No. 6 short-shank bait-holder hook. This hook is used to hook the worm through the tip of the nose, with the hook barb turned out of its side. This setup has been a go-to method for both pro and novice anglers alike.
Additionally, when using a Texas rig with plastic worms, you can insert about a quarter of an inch of the hook straight into the top of the worm, pushing the point all the way through so that the worm makes a straight line between the point and the eye of the hook. This technique ensures the worm remains securely on the hook while also allowing it to slip through weeds without getting snagged.
The right hook can significantly impact your success rate when rigging plastic worms for walleye. By selecting the appropriate hook for your chosen rig and bait size, you can improve your chances of a successful catch.
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Selecting the right worm
When selecting a plastic worm for walleye fishing, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, size is an important factor. Plastic worms come in various lengths, from short and stubby to long and skinny. The most common sizes for walleye lures range from 3 to 6 inches, with 4 inches being a popular choice for many anglers.
The colour of the plastic worm is also a key consideration. While walleye lures are often associated with bright, fluorescent, or glow-in-the-dark colours, natural colours like watermelon pepper and green pumpkin can be very effective. Additionally, minnow-imitating colours like smoke with copper flake, clear salt-and-pepper, and all white or black can produce good results, especially in adverse conditions. Some anglers also add their own creative touch by purchasing colouring and glitter to create unique combinations.
The type of tail is another factor to consider when selecting a plastic worm. There are two main types of tails available: twister tails and paddle tails. Both options have their advantages, but it's worth noting that they are not created equal, and some may be more effective than others depending on fishing conditions and walleye behaviour.
It's worth experimenting with different styles and shapes of plastic worms to find what works best for you. In addition to the traditional worm shape, there are other options such as tubes, grubs, finesse worms, and soft-plastic jerkbaits or swimbaits. These can be presented way behind the boat, beyond casting range, using a light jig at slow speeds, which can be very effective for walleye fishing.
Finally, it's important to consider the action of the worm. Some anglers prefer to fish their plastic worms aggressively, using the action of the drop to trigger bites. The spinning action of a worm on a slow-turn hook can be particularly effective for walleye, as it appeals to their sense of smell and vision.
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The classic walleye spinnerbait rig
Spinner rigs are a highly effective way to catch walleye in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. The classic walleye spinnerbait rig consists of a few key components:
The Blade
The blade creates a unique flash that attracts walleye and triggers bites. The size of the blade is an important consideration, depending on the body of water you're fishing in. Smaller blades (#2, #3, or #4) are more suitable for smaller bodies of water or where the fish and bait are smaller. Larger blades (#4, #5, or #6) are standard for larger bodies of water or places like the Great Lakes.
The Hook
Hook selection is critical when fishing for walleye due to their light bite and boney mouth. Most anglers use a large single hook when fishing with a leech or minnow, such as the VMC SpinDrift or Mustad Slow Death. Many spinner fishermen also use a nightcrawler with two or three octopus-style hooks. When fishing away from snags, some anglers add a treble hook as a trailer to increase hookups.
The Line
Fluorocarbon fishing line is the preferred choice for spinner rigs. It is nearly invisible, abrasion-resistant, and stiff, which helps prevent tangles. The strength of the leader material can vary depending on personal preference and water conditions. In very clear and cold water, a lighter test (around 8-pound) may be used, while in turbid areas or where large walleyes are present, a heavier test (up to 20-pound) may be preferred.
The Weight
Spinner rigs can utilize various weights, such as Roach walkers, slinkies, or split-shot, to reach the desired depth. The weight selected should match your fishing style and the water conditions. A bottom bouncer weight is often used with spinner rigs, maintaining a 45-degree line angle when trolling.
The Body
Spinner rig bodies come in two main categories: sinking and floating. Sinking beads and tubes help keep your bait closer to the bottom, while floating pills help keep it above grass or rocks. The color and style of the body can be chosen to match or contrast the blade, depending on personal preference and water conditions.
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Berkley Gulp! plastic worms
When rigging Berkley Gulp! plastic worms for walleye, there are several key components to consider. Firstly, select a bottom bouncer weight that maintains a 45-degree line angle when trolling. This will help you effectively present the bait to the fish. Secondly, use a longer rod with moderate action. This gives the walleyes enough time to eat the bait without feeling your presence, ensuring a successful hookup.
A recommended setup for Berkley Gulp! plastic worms is the Texas Rig, a popular and versatile rigging method. To Texas rig a Berkley Gulp! plastic worm, follow these steps:
- Slip a bullet sinker onto your line by inserting the line into the pointed end of the sinker. Preferably, use a sinker made from eco-friendly materials like brass, ceramic, steel, tin, or tungsten instead of lead.
- Insert the point of the hook into the top of the worm. A useful tip is to vary the size of the hook according to the size of the worm or bait.
- Bend the worm and insert the point of the hook at a right angle, ensuring the worm remains straight so that the hook goes back into the same side it came out of.
- Push the point of the hook all the way through the worm. The worm should now form a straight line between the point and the eye of the hook.
- Push the worm slightly upwards so that the point of the hook sits just under the surface of the plastic.
- You can now add scent to the plastic worm if desired. This step is optional, but many anglers use scents to increase the attraction of their lures.
The Texas Rig is a versatile setup that allows you to fish at various depths and speeds. Additionally, when rigged this way, the worm becomes "weedless," meaning it can slip through weeds without getting snagged while still being easy to set the hook.
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Frequently asked questions
The classic Yamamoto Senko Worm is a popular choice. Its ribbed design and basic stick shape make it very effective. The Berkley Gulp! is also a good option as it is chemically engineered to appeal to a walleye's sense of smell.
The Texas Rig is one of the most popular ways to fish a plastic worm. It can be used over any kind of structure, through weeds and grass, and at any depth. The Wacky Rig is another good option, as it improves your chances of a successful catch.
It is recommended to use a medium-action rod as it provides the right balance of sensitivity and power. You should also vary the speed and rhythm of your retrieval to find what entices the walleye at that moment.
