Alabama Rigs- How To?

[LTBC_mmcallum]

Recently picked up an Alabama rig at my local Dick's while it was on sale, and I've heard killer stories and even seen some insane hook ups on TV.

My only question is what is the proper setup for them?

I noticed the package suggests 60-90lb braided line and it seemed a bit excessive to me, can y'all give me a hand here?

[AK-Jax86]

I've thrown it on 30 and 50lb braid. I watched a video on YouTube where this guy catches over 25lbs in 2 CASTS!!! He lands a big one and a 5 LB at once then he lands an even bigger one and another over 5. Biggest was 9.12

[vikingbear8]

I dont use them anymore but when I did I always ran two teasers with three hooks. The teasers on top and a little shorter and a little smaller. I like the fat keitechs, big grubs, and pretty much any decent 5" soft swimmer for hooked ones the teasers I used the little shadelicous. As far as line I used 65lb braid with a 17-20lb leader

[Fishes in trees]

If you're going to throw A-rigs, you've got to use the correct tools.  There have been numerous discussions in the rod, line & reel section as far as what is and what ain't correct tools.

 

Once your A-rig is set up like you want it, how much does it weigh.  Be sure that you've got a rig that will throw that weight.  I don't think that 65 lb braid is excessive, for as much as an average A-rig weighs.  Also, when you get it stuck, (and that IS going to happen) 65 lb braid gets you unstuck.

 

Basically, you need rod and reel that can handle the 3 to 5 or so ounces that a typical A-Rig weighs.  Some  guys "go light" with their rigs but even then they are throwing over an ounce.

 

Me, I am currently using a late 90's era Team Diawa Muskie rod and and older Calcutta GCB.  Should I ever get a spare $20 or so, I'm going to get a Shimano Curado 300E or an EJ.  Down at Table Rock, my buds tell me that reel is the gold standard currently for A-rigs.

[aqualkinbush]

I have the BPS 3 arm Flash Mob jr knock off and I have had no problems throwing it on my MH rod with 20lb fluoro. 

[Bluebasser86]

I hate braid for A-rigs, backlash trying to make a long cast with braid and a heavy rig and you'll find out why as you watch the rig sail into the lake without a line attached. I've never had a problem fishing one on 20-25lb P-line Xtra strong. I've also only ever lost one rig on it and it wouldn't have mattered what line I had on that one. I toss them on a 7' 10" H/F BPS Extreme with a Curado 300E and have handled fish up to a 20 pound striper with this setup with no problems. 

[LTBC_mmcallum]

I hate braid for A-rigs, backlash trying to make a long cast with braid and a heavy rig and you'll find out why as you watch the rig sail into the lake without a line attached. I've never had a problem fishing one on 20-25lb P-line Xtra strong. I've also only ever lost one rig on it and it wouldn't have mattered what line I had on that one. I toss them on a 7' 10" H/F BPS Extreme with a Curado 300E and have handled fish up to a 20 pound striper with this setup with no problems.

This sounds alot more do able, I keep most of my combos strung with 30lb Berkeley big game anyway.