Ledgering

Ledgering is a straightforward style of bottom fishing. It requires a sensitive 12-foot(minimum) rod and a small to medium sized reel, a weight, swivel and various hook sizes.Bait feeders can also be used as the weight and many competitive anglers use this method in fishing contests around the world.

The idea of the ledger rig is to allow for sensitivity, in that as soon as the fish lifts the bait the line passes thru the weight and the bite can be felt, seen, or heard. The latter if you use electronic bite indicators.

The rod has to be long, sensitive and flexible enough to cast accurately as well as play the fish. Swing tip rods and feeder rods are dedicated ledger rods. Unless you are going after easily available species with the kids, then avoid using a normal spinning rod.

Light line is paramount when ledgering and the line between the swivel and your main line is much the same as a tippet on a fly line. Keep it as light as you can, even as low as one pound. Obviously, if you plan on ledgering for pike or muskie, then trace wire will be needed at a good length from the weight; at least half a meter. Ledgering for pike will also require a larger more powerful rod for heavy fish and arduous battles.

Rod stands are essential for ledgering. A couple of branches with a Y cut may serve you well when you are ten years old, but the proper stands allow the line to run thru and hold the rod steady.

Most ledgering only requires small fishing hooks around sizes16 to 22.

Baits range from small worms to colored maggots, single pieces of sweetcorn.

A long handled landing net is always useful when ledgering.