Build-a-Rig

Pick a rig, then see what you still need to bring.

Each checklist follows the CastPlan rig as shown, without extra parts or brand-driven recommendations.

Approved rig reference

Freeline Live Bait Rig arranged on a dock for identification

Freeline Live Bait Rig

Predators chasing bait Use it: When baitfish are visible, fish are feeding near the surface, or lights are holding bait at night.

4 required3 optional4 ownership not recorded

20-25 lb fluorocarbon leader

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Use it for line-shy fish around bridges, flats, and shorelines.

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Inshore braided main line

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Braided main line keeps the setup sensitive and lets you swap leaders without reinventing the whole rig.

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Inshore circle hooks

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Live Shrimp, Fish Finder, Freeline, and Bottom setups all lean on circle hooks and the hook-set discipline that comes with them.

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Live bait matched to target

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Freeline and mackerel setups depend on choosing bait to match the species and moment, not on pretending one live bait fits every target.

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Barrel swivels

Optional

Several rigs use a swivel to connect the main line, leader, and weight.

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Live-bait hooks

Optional

A hook that overwhelms the bait defeats the freeline presentation before it reaches a fish.

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Small split shot

Optional

The Live Shrimp and Freeline Shrimp rig guidance only wants this when the bait cannot reach fish naturally.

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Fish by species

Start with the fish

See only the rigs, essentials, alternatives, and kits grounded for that species.

Mangrove SnapperSheepsheadSnookSpotted SeatroutRedfishFlorida PompanoSpanish MackerelBlack Drum

Fish by situation

Start with the water

Understand why the setup fits the environment before looking for an offer.

Bridge structure and pilingsGrass flats and potholesBeach troughs and surf cutsCatch bait firstFast surface predators

Build a rig

Choose the accepted rig. Check what you own. See what is needed.

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Restock essentials

Repeat-use tackle, without quantity tracking

Leader, hooks, swivels, jig heads, soft plastics, and sinkers are marked as consumable-ready foundations. CastPlan does not predict depletion yet.

Review equipment

Upgrade your gear

Upgrade for a reason

Equipment detail explains useful specification differences for current, structure, surf, and repeated saltwater use—never commission-first ranking.

Compare guidance

Component order and materials

Main Line → Leader → Circle Hook + Live Bait Let it swim — no weight unless current demands it

  1. 1Main line
  2. 224–36 inch fluorocarbon leader
  3. 3Circle hook matched to bait size
  4. 4Optional small split shot if current is strong