ワカサギ

Basic Structure of the Rig

• Rod (Tip‑sensitive Rod): Use a specialized rod called a hosaki, which is extremely thin and flexible. To visually detect the delicate bites of smelt, rods come in various shapes—often flat—and in different lengths and stiffness levels.
• Reel: Small reels are used. While hand‑crank reels exist, compact electric reels are now the mainstream. Electric reels often include depth counters and auto‑stop functions at preset depths, making fishing more efficient.
• Line (Main Line & Leader): PE line is commonly used for its high sensitivity. For electric reels, a dedicated leader with a metal stopper is convenient to prevent overwinding.
• Rig (Hooks): A multi‑hook dōtsuki rig with 5–7 hooks is standard. Beginners should use shorter rigs (60–70cm) to reduce tangles. A sinker is attached at the very bottom.
• Bait: Insect baits such as maggots (sashi) and red worms are common, though artificial baits are available for those who dislike handling insects.

Fishing Procedure

1. Preparation (Baiting): Hook the sashi. Piercing both ends and cutting the middle with scissors releases scent, which strongly attracts smelt.
2. Dropping & Bottom Detection: Disengage the clutch and let the sinker fall to the bottom. Once it hits bottom, reel in slightly to tension the rig and record the depth using the reel’s counter.
3. Attracting (Sasoi): Move the rod tip up and down in small shakes to draw attention to the bait. After a few shakes, pause to create a “feeding moment,” giving smelt time to bite.
4. Bite & Hook‑set: When the tip twitches, that’s a bite. Flick your wrist lightly to lift the rod and set the hook.
5. Reeling & Landing: Turn on the electric reel and retrieve at a steady speed. When the fish becomes visible, bring in the rig and transfer the smelt to a bucket using a hook remover or similar tool.
6. Tips for Increasing Catch: Frequently replace bait. When bait turns pale or loses its juices, bites decrease. Especially when the bite slows, switching to fresh bait is the key to improving results.