The Dumbell Rig

A cracking rig on many waters when you want to present a bait close to the surface. The depth you fish at is determined by the length of the dumbell. Shopbought and standard self-build dumbells would be approximately 12-18" long but it is possible to use them up to about 3 feet long(not easily it should be said) It is believed that this rig 'blows' quickly on some waters but that is not a statement shared by all!

Usually considered a warm water method when catfish are actively hunting but again, it can be successful at almost any time. A night version with a starlight inserted can be really useful too so that you can observe the movement of your livebait.

Try using a dumbell to present deadbaits, fish sections and lumps of liver or luncheon meat, it can be surprisingly successful!

The following article written by Keith Lambert, was previously published on the CCG website and has now been updated. It offers a few useful tips about fishing with livebaits using the Dumbell Rig and Circle Hooks.

Dumbells and Circles