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
Wire Leader Mackerel Rig
Toothy fast predators Use it: When mackerel are cutting off mono or fluorocarbon leaders.
Casting spoon
Ownership not recordedChoose a spoon for casting range, flash, and speed. You do not need a box full of colors.
Inshore braided main line
Ownership not recordedBraided main line keeps the setup sensitive and lets you swap leaders without reinventing the whole rig.
Short wire leader
Ownership not recordedSpanish mackerel guidance explicitly says to shorten the problem: a light wire section, fast metal, and repeated leader checks.
Barrel swivels
OptionalSeveral rigs use a swivel to connect the main line, leader, and weight.
Gotcha-style plug
OptionalThis keeps the mackerel gear plan truthful: one practical plug family that overlaps with jacks and similar fast fish.
Live bait matched to target
OptionalFreeline and mackerel setups depend on choosing bait to match the species and moment, not on pretending one live bait fits every target.
Live-bait hooks
OptionalA hook that overwhelms the bait defeats the freeline presentation before it reaches a fish.
Fish by species
Start with the fish
See only the rigs, essentials, alternatives, and kits grounded for that species.
Fish by situation
Start with the water
Understand why the setup fits the environment before looking for an offer.
Build a rig
Choose the accepted rig. Check what you own. See what is needed.
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 equipmentUpgrade 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 guidanceComponent order and materials
Main Line → Swivel → Short Wire Leader → Spoon / Plug / Hook
- 1Main line
- 2Short wire leader
- 3Spoon, plug, or hook
- 4Optional swivel
