rigging leeches

[ron k]

one of the most rewarding types of fishing for me is bouncing live bait on the river bottom for smallies, wheather it be crawlers or minnows or leeches. i have always just used a size one bait holder for the bait and a split shot about fourteen inches above the hook, very basic. this has caught fish consistantly. i want to experiment a bit with the rigging. any suggestions on beads spinner blades and stuff like that?

any reply is helpful, thank you

[Moose]

Sounds like you have a good start. Another step would be a slip sinker ( Lindy ) walking sinker or barrell type. Attach barrell swivel below sinker. You may find it easier to use a snap swivel that allows you yo have an overhand loop the spinner. For snell use slightly lower lb test line ( 8/6 , 6/4 ) place one colored bead above hook ( color and adds bouancy ) tie on hook. For using spinner probably easiest to purchase pre made spinners at first. I like Northland but even locally manufactured spinners work just as well. Try to stay on the small side for hook sizes and line weight. Don't purchase snells which are short ( under 2 - 3 feet ).