Trolling with garfish is a time-tested method for targeting predatory species such as kingfish, mackerel, and tuna. Garfish, with their slender profile and natural swimming action, mimic baitfish perfectly when rigged correctly. However, to get the best results while trolling, it’s essential to understand how to rig garfish effectively. The rigging technique can make the difference between a missed opportunity and a trophy catch. This topic offers an in-depth look at rigging garfish for trolling, covering methods, tips, and gear selection to help anglers of all skill levels.
Understanding the Appeal of Garfish as Trolling Bait
Garfish are highly effective trolling baits due to their long, narrow bodies and smooth swimming motion. When rigged properly, they present a lifelike target that appeals to various saltwater predators. Their natural appearance in the water and ability to maintain integrity during high-speed trolling make them a popular choice for serious offshore anglers.
Advantages of Using Garfish for Trolling
- Highly realistic swimming action
- Effective at both slow and high trolling speeds
- Attractive to a wide range of game fish
- Can be rigged in multiple ways for versatility
Choosing the Right Garfish
Before rigging, choosing quality garfish is critical. Fresh or properly frozen garfish will hold up better in the water, swim more naturally, and attract more strikes. Select bait with firm bodies, clear eyes, and intact fins. Avoid soft or discolored garfish as they can easily break apart during trolling.
Size Consideration
The size of the garfish should match the target species. For larger fish like wahoo or marlin, bigger garfish around 10 to 12 inches work best. Smaller predators like Spanish mackerel or bonito may respond better to 6- to 8-inch garfish.
Essential Gear for Rigging Garfish
To rig garfish for trolling, you’ll need specific tools and materials. These include:
- Stainless steel or wire leader (30100 lb test, depending on target species)
- Single or double hook rigs (usually 7/0 to 10/0 size)
- Rigging needles
- Waxed rigging floss or heavy-duty monofilament
- Bait springs or rubber bands
- Chin weights (optional, for stability)
Step-by-Step Guide to Rigging Garfish
There are several ways to rig a garfish for trolling, but the most common and effective include the chin-weighted rig and the bridle rig. Each has its advantages depending on trolling speed and target fish.
Chin-Weighted Rig
This is the most popular rigging method for trolling at medium to high speeds. It helps keep the garfish upright and swimming straight through the water.
- Insert the hook through the lower jaw and out the top of the garfish’s head.
- Secure the hook with floss or rigging wire to keep it tight against the body.
- Attach a small chin weight to the underside of the head using rigging floss.
- Sew the mouth closed to prevent it from opening during trolling.
- Add a stinger hook in the body or tail for long fish or short strikes.
Bridle Rig
The bridle rig is effective for slow trolling or live bait presentation. It allows for better bait movement and natural action.
- Thread a needle with rigging floss through the top of the head, just behind the skull.
- Form a loop and tie it off securely.
- Attach the hook through the loop using a rubber band or swivel.
- This method allows the garfish to swim more freely without restriction.
Tips for Better Performance
Rigging technique matters, but small adjustments can significantly improve performance. Here are some expert tips to refine your trolling setup:
- Use swivels to reduce line twist and allow for natural bait motion.
- Always test your rig in the water before deploying. If the bait spins or swims unnaturally, adjust the chin weight or hook placement.
- Keep multiple rigs prepared in advance to save time on the water.
- Re-rig or replace bait as soon as it shows signs of wear.
Trolling Speeds and Patterns
The trolling speed should match your rigging style. For chin-weighted rigs, 5 to 8 knots is ideal. For bridle rigs or live garfish, keep the speed lower at around 2 to 4 knots. Zig-zag or S-patterns are effective trolling paths, allowing the bait to cover more water and increase visibility to predatory fish.
Multiple Line Spreads
When trolling with more than one line, use outriggers to keep lines apart and prevent tangling. Mix bait sizes and rigging types to mimic a small school of fish, which can provoke feeding frenzy behavior from predators.
Target Species and Best Locations
Garfish are effective for a range of species depending on where you fish. Here are common targets and their preferred environments:
- Kingfish: Coastal reefs and offshore wrecks
- Spanish Mackerel: Nearshore drop-offs and current lines
- Tuna: Deep offshore water and around bait balls
- Wahoo: Fast trolling over structure or drop-offs
Maintaining Rigged Garfish
When preparing for longer trips, it’s essential to store pre-rigged garfish properly. Use vacuum-sealed bags or airtight containers with a layer of saltwater or brine. Keep them frozen until use. Thaw gradually in a cooler, not in direct sunlight, to retain the bait’s firmness and natural oils.
Rigging garfish for trolling is both an art and a science. With the right preparation, materials, and technique, garfish can be one of the most effective trolling baits available. Whether you’re chasing big pelagic fish offshore or targeting aggressive reef predators, properly rigged garfish can dramatically increase your success rate. Mastering different rigging styles and knowing when to use each method will ensure that your bait performs flawlessly, making every trolling trip a potential fishing adventure to remember.