Striped Bass - Chunking Rig

The rig for targeting big striped bass using large live baits or chunks includes a swivel, length of leader, and an octopus style J-hook.  The J-hook is typically preferred over a circle hook because the size of the baits greatly reduce the effectiveness of the circle hook.  However, it is always the anglers responsibility to quickly set the hook to reduce the chance of hooking the striper deep in the throat or in the stomach.

The rig includes the following components:

• #8 or #10 (75-90lb) barrel swivel
• 3-4ft length of 50-80lb fluorocarbon leader
• 8/0 – 9/0 offset octopus (beak) style hook

The swivel is attached to the leader using an improved clinch knot or a standard clinch knot.  The hook is attached with a snell knot

The length of the leader allows for easy handling at boat-side so that the fish can either be grabbed by the lip or released using a fish-flipper tool.  The angler should take several wraps on their forearm to spread the pressure of the line over as much skin as possible.  never wrap braided line or grab it with your bare hands as it will probably cut you.

You can learn more applications for this rig on the Striped Bass on Live Bunker and the Striped Bass Chunking recommended tackle pages.