Rigging Freshwater Mussels

Much the same as rigging a pipi when fishing in the saltwater, you can also rig a mussel the same as shown in figures 1 and 2. The hook size will depend on the type of fish species that you are going to target.

What you do need to make sure is that in fig. 1 the hook that you use is either a turn-down or turned-up bait keeper style hook and you help secure the mussel onto the hook by tying 2 to 3 half hitches above the eye of the hook. In fig. 3 the hook will now increase in size and length to accommodate at least 2 to 3 mussels on the hook. To help secure the mussel onto the hook tie off with the elastic bait thread.

Mussels and a great bait for bass, carp, trout, redfin, perch and many other freshwater fish species and can be used with a number of different rigs, like the paternoster, running ball sinker down onto the hook, a running sinker down onto a swivel and a leader of about a metre, suspended under a bubble or stemmed float, a small split shot or just un weighted. You can check these rigs out in Gary Brown's Essential Saltwater Bait Fishing Rigs. Remember, it's also important to check your local regulations regarding bait collection, possession and use.