John F's baits: Walla-walla rigs

[John F]

Part 1/2

Finding walla-walla in Maputo is not as easy as other baits (halfbeaks, caparau, mullets, etc). The ones available in the fish market come from Quelimane and usually are quite big! The last batch I bought (although I had specifically asked for smaller wallas in the 50-60 cm range), were about 100-120 cm long!!!

Rigging these with the traditional rigs (hook and small sinker) would not work as the baits are quite big. So I had to put my thinking hat on and came up with this rig.

Made out of s/s wire, the overall concept is the same: 3 trebbles about 12-15 cm apart and chin weights. Each one of the egg sinkers weights 2 Oz. A skirt gives that extra flash and then a leader of about 80 cm of 80 lb mono with a swivel. 

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[John F]

Part 2/2

The wallas are cut in half. The section with the head, is trimmed for extra hydrodynamics and appeal. A triangular chunk at the back is cut to simulate a tail or caudal fin. The frontal part of the other half is trimmed to help with the rigging.

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I use elastic bands and bait cotton to secure the baits to the rigs. A small skirt is used for extra attraction.

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I've used an 8Oz sinker, 3-4 m ahead of the bait to keep it down (poor man's downrigger). I trolled up to 7 knots and the baits track true and straight!

This will also be an excellent downrigger bait for those who own it... send it down to 20-25 m on a 30-45 m reef and hold on!

Summer croc cutas, beware!!!!!

[ernie]

Would like to see but picks do not open. Can anybody assist? Regards