If you’re fishing Louisiana and want to get back to basics and beat the bank for reds and trout, then try this simple popping cork rig. It’s a great technique to locate and catch many species of inshore fish, including reds, speckled trout, flounder and more.
Start with a 3-foot piece of 30-to-40-pound mono leader, depending on the structure that you’re fishing. Go heavier on the leader if you are fishing around oyster reefs, barnacles or heavy grass.
Tie one end of the monofilament leader to the bottom wire of the popping cork with a uni knot or similar knot. On the other end, tie the lure or jig with the same knot.
If we are trout fishing, we prefer a DOA shrimp because it’s light and looks just like a shrimp. If you really want to get down and grind for the redfish, we tie on a basic 3/8-ounce jig with a soft plastic body that simulates a baitfish. You should adjust the length of the leader to the depth of the water you are fishing.
Now to work this rig, you just pitch it up by the bank and work it back slowly, while giving it distinct jerks to create a popping sound with the concave face of the cork. If it’s a tough day, then you can tip the jig with a piece of shrimp to help put some fish in the boat.
Many times the redfish or trout will hit it on the pop, and that’s when you set the hook and keep your line tight by reeling. Use a dip net to help land larger fish.
So rig it, tip it and pop it, and be sure to hold on tight because this rig is going to produce.
It’s a fantastic way to spend the afternoon fishing the points catching a few reds and trout.
