Carolinarigged

Carolinarigged is a term used to describe a specific fishing technique, primarily associated with the waters of the Carolinas. It refers to a method of rigging bait for fishing, particularly for species like red drum and black drum. The core of the Carolinarigged setup involves a Carolina rig, which typically features a weight, a bead, and a hook, often with a soft plastic bait or natural bait attached.

The weight in a Carolinarigged setup is usually a sliding sinker, allowing the bait to rest on the bottom while the line remains free to move. This feature is crucial for detecting subtle bites, especially from wary fish. The bead serves to protect the knot from the sliding weight and can also add a visual attractant for the fish. The hook is generally a circle hook, designed to set in the corner of the fish's mouth, reducing the chance of gut hooking and promoting easier release if desired.

This rig is popular due to its simplicity, effectiveness, and versatility. It can be used from shore, piers, and boats, and is adaptable to various bottom conditions. The Carolinarigged technique is a staple for many anglers targeting inshore and nearshore saltwater species along the Atlantic coast, particularly in North Carolina and South Carolina.