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SALTWATER RIG LIBRARY

Pompano Rig

A surf high-low rig dressed with bright beads and small foam floats beside each hook. The floats lift the bait and the colors draw pompano and permit along the beach.

Best forPompano, permit, palometa
WhereBeaches, troughs, surf
MethodSurf fishing
DifficultyEasy
Pompano Rig — BigJoe rig illustration
Main lineSnap swivelRig bodyUpper hook + float + beadsLower hook + float + beadsPyramid sinkerBait

Rig diagram (component order)

Pompano Rig: Main line, Snap swivel, Rig body, Upper hook + float + beads, Lower hook + float + beads, Pyramid sinker, Bait

Step-by-step how-to

Pompano Rig — BigJoe step-by-step graphic
BigJoe step-by-step graphic

Step-by-step build instructions

  1. 1

    Tie the main line to the rig’s top snap swivel.

  2. 2

    Use about 36 in of 30 lb leader as the rig body.

  3. 3

    Tie a dropper; thread a foam float and two beads, then the hook.

  4. 4

    Repeat about 16 in lower for the second hook.

  5. 5

    Clip a 2–4 oz pyramid sinker to the bottom.

  6. 6

    Bait with sand fleas and cast into the first trough.

BigJoe Tips

  • Pompano feed in the first trough, often close to shore.
  • Dig your own sand fleas at the water’s edge.
  • Bright orange and chartreuse floats work in clear water.
  • Keep the rod in a sand spike with the line tight.

Variations

  • Add a small Fishbites strip next to the bait.
  • Use a single-hook version in very rough surf.
  • Switch to a sputnik sinker in strong surf.
  • Gold hooks add more flash.

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Target Species

Florida pompanoTrachinotus carolinusPermitTrachinotus falcatusCrevalle jackCaranx hipposLane snapperLutjanus synagris