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DEADBAIT LEGERING

Probably the most widely used pike rig in the UK is the legered deadbait. Not only is this a simple method to use, it can also be very effective. To make the rig efficient and safe for the pike it must be set up in a way that allows instant indication of a pike picking up the bait.

A free running and versatile set up uses a low resistance leger ring sliding on the line, with a rubber bead below it to prevent the leger ring jamming on the trace swivel and to protect the knot to the trace. Sleeving the trace with semi-stiff shrink tube where the swivel is attached (as shown on the right) helps prevent the bomb tangling with the wire. If the bottom is snag free then the bomb weight can be attached to the ring by a snap link. Anywhere a bomb is likely to snag up a weak nylon link should be placed between the ring and the weight - sleeving this in silicone tube will help stop it tangle around the trace. The use of a leger weight of 1.5oz or heavier ensures that you can get the line tight enough to set up your drop-off indicator correctly.

Bombs heavier than two ounces should only be used where they are unlikely to snag up, as attaching these with weak links can be dangerous as they can 'crack off' on the cast. Alternatively a long weak link can be used and the bomb tied to the bait with PVA tape to take the force of the cast. For this rig a casting boom can replace the leger ring, as this seems to reduce tangling of the link with the trace.

All sorts of deadbaits, whole, half and section, fresh or saltwater, can be used on this rig. They can be presented hard on the bottom or popped up. If the bottom is silty or weedy the weak link can be extended to keep the leger ring free from clogging debris, even adding a polyball or similar to it for added buoyancy.

Permanently fixed leads (such as bombs clipped directly to the trace swivel) must never be used for legering. Semi-fixed leads must be able to pull or break free should the baited rig become lost. More information about safe pike rigs can be found here.


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