If you are looking for a step by step guide for how to tie a double rig for crappie fishing, look no further!
A double rig is essentially two jigs, tied one above the other. A double rig allows you to fish two different depths in the water column at the same time. Jigging for crappie is one of the most effective ways to catch crappie, so its no surprise that using two jigs at the same time can also be effective.
When Should You Use a Double Rig?
A double rig is very similar to using a jig for crappie fishing. The great thing about fishing jigs is that they can be successful at almost any time of the year, and in a wide variety of locations.
Deep cover, ledges, and drop-offs
Fishing deep cover, ledges, and drop-offs are one of the most common times you’d fish a jig and also are great for a double rig. The benefit of using a double rig is that you can fish the bottom while simultaneously targeting suspended fish. Sometimes having multiple presentations in the water column is the ticket for getting more strikes.
Vertical Jigging
Vertical jigging is when you position your boat directly over your target fish and “jig” it in front of them. A double rig again allows you to target two different depths and can be very effective if you find good numbers of crappie stacked up on cover. Also, if you’ve never caught a double (i.e. two fish at the same time), it’s an absolute blast!
How To Tie A Double Rig For Crappie Fishing
First, in order to tie a double rig, you are going to want to select two jig heads and either two soft plastics or minnows, depending on what your preference is. I recommend throwing a double rig on a light action rod and spinning reel, paired with 4 or 6 lb test fluorocarbon.
Before we get into the details, if you’ve ever tied on a drop shot, a double rig is very similar. The only difference is that instead of tying on a sinker or weight, you’ll tie on a second jig head.
To get started, tie your first jig head on with your preferred knot. I always use a Palomar knot because it has great knot strength and is super reliable, but you can also use a loop knot or whatever you prefer. When tying your first jig head on, you are going to want to leave a substantial amount of line on the “tag” end (you’ll eventually use this line to tie the second jig head). The “tag” end is the end of the line that you would normally cut off after tying on your lure.
Leaving somewhere around 12 to 24 inches of line between the two jigs is typical. However, you can shorten or lengthen that distance as you see fit. Once you start to get over 24 inches, it becomes more difficult to cast so just keep that in mind.
Once you’ve got your tag line available, simply tie the second jig head on like you normally would, and then remove the tag. The end result should be that you have two jig heads on the same line, one above the other, with a few feet between them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size hook should I use when tying on a double rig for crappie?
A size #2 or #4 hook on a jig head is recommended for crappie. It’s important that you don’t use too large of a hook or it will impact the presentation of the lure. Also, remember that crappie have small mouths, and don’t need a huge hookset, so you want something with a light wire gauge.
What line is best for a double rig?
Fluorocarbon is the best line for a double rig. Fluorocarbon gives you the best combination of strength, low visibility, and price. If you prefer to use hi-vis line, you can tie on a fluorocarbon leader above your first jig head and it should be fine. Keep in mind your leader will be quite long since you need enough line to tie both jigs.
Another popular option is braid with a fluorocarbon leader which would work for a double rig. I would not recommend using monofilament line for a double rig unless you are trying to save on costs. Monofilament floats and isn’t as abrasive resistant as other lines. Additionally, monofilament has a bit of stretch to it which can be troublesome when fishing deep water.
What knot is best for crappie fishing?
A loop knot or Palomar knot is the best for a double rig for crappie fishing. The most important thing about the knot you tie on a jig is that the jig needs to hang horizontally off of your line. That means where you tie your knot on the eye of the jig is very important. If you don’t tie the knot correctly, your jig will sort of hang off the line vertically and not look very realistic.
