How To Rig A Live Worm As Bait

The idea of using a live worn as bait sounds simple enough, and in actuality it is, it's just that most anglers aren't aware of how to do it properly. Lets begin with what rigging a live worm isn't. The way to rig a live worm isn't to attempt to "thread" said worm onto a single hook. This is how most anglers have been rigging live worms, since fishing was invented, but the point of this article is to show you that there is a better way. Just because a fire can be started by rubbing two sticks together, this doesn't mean it's the most effective, efficient, or best way to start a fire. Using a package of matches is a more effective and efficient way to start your fire.

A more effective and efficient way to rig a live worm is a set of gang hooks. You see, when a live worm is "threaded" onto a single hook, it ends up resembling some sort of worm ball. When a set of gang hooks is employed, that same worm can be presented as bait outstretched and natural, the way God (and the fish) intended. A set of gang hooks is, without question, the best way to rig a live worm as bait. The actual rig is simple as well. Let me explain.

You begin by taking the end of your line and tying on a small barrel swivel. This helps prevent line twist. On the opposite end of the barrel swivel, a set of pre tied gang hooks is tied on (whichever size you choose to use). Now split shot sinkers are added for weight, above the barrel swivel. That's it. That's how to rig a live worm as bait. There are obviously variations on this rig where things like bobbers are added or an egg sinker is substituted for the split shots (in the case of still fishing). The basic rig described here, baited with a live worm and allowed to drift naturally with the current as it bounces of the bottom, is the most efficient and effective way to rig and fish a live worm, that I've ever encountered.

Whether you tie the gang hooks yourself or buy them pre tied and ready to fish, the point is that gang hooks are the best way to rig a live worm as bait. As a matter of fact, once you try them just once, you'll never again use a single hook for live bait fishing (especially when a live worm is involved). It's been over fifteen years since I was first introduced to the wonderful gang hook, and I won't fish with live worms without a set of gang hooks attached to my line, that's for sure.

Trevor Kugler is co-founder of JRWfishing.com and an avid angler. He has more than 20 years experience fishing for all types of fish, and 15 years of business and internet experience. He currently raises his three year old daughter in the heart of trout fishing country…..Montana!

Gang Hooks Tied & Ready To Fish: http://www.jrwfishing.com/gang_hooks.asp

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