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FRESHWATER RIG LIBRARY

Slip Bobber Rig

A float that slides on the line until it hits a small stop knot. You can cast easily and still fish live bait very deep, because the depth is set by the knot, not the float.

Best forBass, peacock bass, catfish, panfish
WhereDeep edges, brush piles, docks
MethodLive bait under a float
DifficultyModerate
Slip Bobber Rig — BigJoe rig illustration
Main lineBobber stop knotSmall beadSlip floatSplit shot / sinkerHookLive bait

Rig diagram (component order)

Slip Bobber Rig: Main line, Bobber stop knot, Small bead, Slip float, Split shot / sinker, Hook, Live bait

Step-by-step how-to

Slip Bobber Rig — BigJoe step-by-step graphic
BigJoe step-by-step graphic

Step-by-step build instructions

  1. 1

    Tie or slide a bobber stop onto the line at the depth you want.

  2. 2

    Add a small bead below the stop.

  3. 3

    Thread the slip float onto the line.

  4. 4

    Add split shot or a small sinker so the float stands up.

  5. 5

    Tie the hook and add live bait.

  6. 6

    Cast: the line slides until it hits the stop. Fish 10–30 ft deep.

BigJoe Tips

  • Slide the stop to change depth in seconds.
  • Trim stop knot tags so they reel through the guides.
  • Use the lightest weight that cocks the float.
  • A lighted float works at night.

Variations

  • Small jig instead of a bare hook.
  • Cut bait on a circle hook for catfish.
  • Bigger float for big live baits.
  • Rubber stops instead of thread knots.

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Target Species

Largemouth bassMicropterus nigricansButterfly peacock bassCichla ocellarisChannel catfishIctalurus punctatusBigmouth sleeperGobiomorus dormitor