The Carolina rig is a versatile fishing technique, primarily employed for targeting bass in diverse aquatic environments. It consists of a bullet weight, usually made of lead or tungsten, threaded onto the main line, followed by a glass or plastic bead, and then a swivel. A leader line, typically 1 to 3 feet long, is tied to the other end of the swivel, with a hook attached to the end of the leader. Soft plastic baits, such as worms, lizards, or creatures, are commonly used as the terminal offering.
This method offers several advantages. The weight allows for long casts and enables the bait to reach the bottom efficiently, even in windy conditions or deeper water. The bead protects the knot and creates noise as it collides with the weight, potentially attracting fish. The leader provides the bait with a more natural presentation, allowing it to move freely and independently of the weight. It is effective in a variety of cover types, including weeds, rocks, and submerged timber, and has proven its effectiveness as a productive search bait for locating actively feeding fish.