Flasher Rigs

Flasher Rigs Buying Guide

Flasher rigs are a practical choice for bait fishing around New Zealand wharves, beaches, rocks and boats. The colour, hook size and target species should guide which rig you choose.

Which hook size should you choose?

A 3/0 flasher rig is the lighter option in this range. It is a good match for tarakihi and other smaller-mouthed coastal fish where a large hook may reduce hook-up rates.

A 4/0 flasher rig suits mixed species fishing. It is a useful middle size for gurnard, kahawai, smaller snapper and general coastal fishing over sand, shell or mixed ground.

A 5/0 flasher rig is a versatile snapper size. It also suits kahawai and mixed reef or beach fishing when using bait pieces such as squid, pilchard, bonito or skipjack.

A 6/0 flasher rig is better suited to larger bait presentations and bigger snapper. It can also be used when fishing rougher ground where stronger tackle is preferred.

Choosing the best colour

Pink flasher rigs are a strong all-round option for snapper and tarakihi. Pink can stand out well in coastal water and pairs well with shellfish, squid and fish bait.

Red flasher rigs suit surfcasting, snapper fishing and general bait fishing where a bold colour is preferred. They are a good option when fishing from beaches or rocky areas.

Gold flasher rigs are useful for gurnard, snapper, kahawai and mixed species. Gold can be a good choice over sandy bottom or when fish are feeding close to the seabed.

Where these rigs fit best

Use lighter 3/0 to 4/0 rigs when the target fish are smaller or feeding carefully. Use 5/0 to 6/0 rigs when fishing bigger baits, stronger current, deeper water or areas where larger snapper may be present.

Because these are two-hook rigs with a swivel, they are suited to simple ledger-style bait fishing. Add a sinker below the rig, bait the hooks, and adjust sinker weight to suit current, swell and casting distance.