Sliding Sinker Bottom Rig
Also called: catfish rig, egg sinker rig
A simple rig with a sliding weight, a swivel, and a leader with a circle hook, used for catfish and other bottom feeders.
- Type
- Rigs & Setups
- Target fish
- Catfish
- Skill
- Beginner-friendly
- Depth
- Bottom
- Best seasons
- Spring through fall
Note: Some states restrict or ban lead sinkers and split shot in certain waters, so check your state's rules and consider tungsten, steel, or other non-lead options.
When it works best
- For catfish in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
- With cut bait, live bait, or prepared bait.
- In current, when you need enough weight to hold the bait in place.
How to fish it
- Slide an egg sinker and a bead onto the main line.
- Tie on a swivel, then tie a leader about 1 to 2 feet long with a circle hook.
- Bait the hook and cast to a deep hole or channel edge.
- Let the weight settle and keep a little slack so the fish can take the bait.
- When the rod bends, reel steadily rather than jerking.
Tips
- Use enough weight to hold the bait in current.
- With circle hooks, steady pressure sets the hook.
Common mistakes
- Jerking the rod, which pulls a circle hook out of the fish's mouth.
- Using too little weight.
- Using a leader that is too long.
Gear
A medium-heavy rod with 15- to 20-pound line is common.
Often confused with
- Carolina rig: the same setup for bass, with a soft plastic instead of live bait.
Fish it catches
Field notes
This is the rig most people use for catfish. It is easy to tie and works in a wide range of water.
Related guides
What works varies by water, season, and the fish that day, so use this as a starting point. Regulations on live bait, hook type and number, lead tackle, and baitfish transport differ by state and water body. Check your state's current fishing rules; our state resources directory links to each state's official regulations and license portal.