Hey fellow carp anglers! Today, I want to share with you some advanced carp rigs that can significantly improve your chances of landing that elusive monster carp. While basic carp rigs are great for getting started, there comes a time when you need to up your game and explore the world of advanced rigs. So, grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive into the exciting world of advanced carp rigs!
1. The Hinged Stiff Rig
Components and Setup
The hinged stiff rig is a fantastic option for presenting pop-up baits over a variety of lakebeds, especially when you need your hook bait to stand out from the crowd. The main components of the hinged stiff rig are:
- A strong, wide-gape, out-turned eye carp hook
- A short, stiff hooklength made from fluorocarbon or stiff monofilament
- A swivel to connect the stiff hooklength to the supple boom section
- A longer, supple boom section made from coated braid or soft monofilament
- A buoyant pop-up boilie or foam bait
To set up the hinged stiff rig:
Tie the stiff hooklength and chod section, following the same steps as the chod rig.
Connect the stiff hooklength to the swivel, and then attach the swivel to the supple boom section using a blood knot or Albright knot.
Finally, attach the other end of the boom section to your mainline or leader using your preferred connection method.
When to Use the Hinged Stiff Rig
The hinged stiff rig is perfect when you need your bait to be highly visible and want to create separation between the hook and the lead. It is particularly effective over clean, hard lakebeds or when fishing over a spread of boilies.
2. The Multi Rig
Components and Setup
The multi rig, sometimes referred to as the “Johnny Mac rig,” is a versatile and adjustable rig that allows you to easily change the hook without having to re-tie the entire rig. The main components of the multi rig are:
- A strong, reliable carp hook with an in-turned or straight eye
- A hooklength made from coated braid or a semi-stiff material
- A bait hair, similar to the hair rigs for carp
- A small rig ring to attach the bait hair and hook to the hooklength
To set up the multi rig:
Tie a small loop at the end of your chosen hooklength material to form the bait hair.
Thread your chosen bait onto the hair using a baiting needle, and secure it in place with a bait stop.
Thread the rig ring onto the hooklength, and then tie a large loop at the other end of the hooklength.
Attach the hook to the rig ring by passing the hook point through the ring and securing it in place with a small piece of rig tubing or silicone.
When to Use the Multi Rig
The multi rig is a versatile rig that can be used in a variety of situations, including fishing over gravel or silt. It works well with both bottom baits and pop-up presentations, and its easy hook-changing feature makes it a valuable addition to any carp angler’s arsenal.
3. The Ronnie Rig
Components and Setup
The Ronnie rig, also known as the spinner rig, is a highly effective presentation for pop-up baits that allows for quick and easy hook changes. The main components of the Ronnie rig are:
- A strong, reliable carp hook with an in-turned or straight eye
- A hooklength made from a supple coated braid or soft monofilament
- A bait screw or micro swivel to attach the pop-up bait to the rig
- A spinner swivel to connect the hook to the hooklength
- A small piece of shrink tubing or silicone to secure the hook to the spinner swivel
To set up the Ronnie rig:
Attach the hook to the spinner swivel by passing the hook’s eye over the swivel’s crook and securing it in place with a small piece of shrink tubing or silicone.
Thread your chosen pop-up bait onto the bait screw or micro swivel, and then attach the bait screw or swivel to the spinner swivel.
Tie your hooklength to the other end of the spinner swivel using a Palomar knot or another strong knot.
When to Use the Ronnie Rig
The Ronnie rig is ideal for presenting pop-up baits in situations where you want to create separation between the hook and the lead. It’s an excellent choice for fishing over a variety of lakebeds, including gravel, silt, and weed. The rig’s mechanics make it extremely effective at hooking carp, even when they are wary or feeding cautiously.
4. The Slip D Rig
Components and Setup
The slip D rig is a subtle, low-profile rig that offers excellent hooking potential while still being relatively easy to tie. The main components of the slip D rig are:
- A strong, reliable carp hook with a straight eye or slightly in-turned eye
- A hooklength made from coated braid, monofilament, or fluorocarbon
- A small rig ring or hook bead to create the slip D loop
- A bait hair, similar to the hair rig
To set up the slip D rig:
Thread a small rig ring or hook bead onto the hooklength material, and then tie the material to the hook’s eye using a knotless knot or a whipping knot.
Thread your chosen bait onto the hair using a baiting needle, and secure it in place with a bait stop.
Form a small loop with the hair, and pass the loop through the rig ring or hook bead, creating a slip D loop.
When to Use the Slip D Rig
The slip D rig is a versatile rig that works well with a wide range of baits, including boilies, pellets, and wafters. It is particularly effective in situations where carp are wary or pressured, as the rig’s subtle presentation and quick hooking mechanics can often catch them off guard.
In conclusion, advanced carp rigs like the hinged stiff rig, multi rig, Ronnie rig, and slip D rig can help you elevate your carp fishing game to the next level. By understanding the mechanics and applications of these carp fishing rigs, you’ll be well on your way to landing more and bigger carp on your fishing adventures.
