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SALTWATER RIG LIBRARY

High-Low / Flapper Rig

Two hooks on dropper loops hold the baits up off the seabed above a pyramid (grip) sinker. The classic surf and pier rig, also called a flapper.

Best forPompano, permit, porgies, snapper
WhereBeaches, surf, piers
MethodSurf / bottom fishing
DifficultyEasy
High-Low / Flapper Rig — BigJoe rig illustration
Main lineBarrel swivelRig lineHigh dropper + hookLow dropper + hookPyramid (grip) sinker

Rig diagram (component order)

High-Low / Flapper Rig: Main line, Barrel swivel, Rig line, High dropper + hook, Low dropper + hook, Pyramid (grip) sinker

Step-by-step how-to

High-Low / Flapper Rig — BigJoe step-by-step graphic
BigJoe step-by-step graphic

Step-by-step build instructions

  1. 1

    Tie the main line to a barrel swivel.

  2. 2

    Tie 3–4 ft of 30–40 lb leader to the swivel.

  3. 3

    Tie a dropper loop about 12 in down and add the first hook.

  4. 4

    Tie a second dropper loop about 18 in lower with the second hook.

  5. 5

    Tie a surgeon’s loop at the end and loop on the pyramid sinker.

  6. 6

    Bait both hooks, cast past the breakers and keep the line tight.

BigJoe Tips

  • Check the local hook limit before fishing two hooks.
  • Keep the loops short so the hooks don’t wrap the line.
  • Sand fleas, clam and shrimp are top surf baits.
  • Hold the rod still; these fish nibble before they bite.

Variations

  • Use circle hooks to reduce gut hooking.
  • Use a bank sinker on rock or rubble instead of sand.
  • Snell the hooks to the loops for a cleaner rig.
  • Space the loops farther apart in deeper water.

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Target Species

Florida pompanoTrachinotus carolinusPermitTrachinotus falcatusJolthead porgyCalamus bajonadoLane snapperLutjanus synagris