How to Set Up a Ballyhoo Plug for Fishing

When the bites from the bottom are sparse, utilizing a ballyhoo plug can disrupt that monotony. This widely-used rigging method entices not only the occasionally skittish mutton and mangrove snapper, but also grouper, cobia, and a variety of lower to mid-level species. Although the ballyhoo plug may seem straightforward, adhering to our recommendations can significantly enhance its stealth and overall effectiveness.

Captain Ben Sharpe, a seasoned angler, has spent nearly his entire life fishing the idyllic waters of the Bahamas and southern Florida. He has perfected the art of bottom fishing and is a master at converting slow bites into successful catches. A key part of his success lies in his carefully rigged ballyhoo plugs, particularly effective in the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys, where he spends the majority of his fishing time.

“People often link a ballyhoo plug exclusively to mutton snapper fishing,” Sharpe points out. “However, it’s a versatile option that appeals to many types of fish, from yellowtails to mangrove snapper. I was recently out targeting mangroves and managed to catch quite a few using ballyhoo plugs. Almost any fish can be tempted by one.”

The Key Details

Rigging a ballyhoo plug is much more nuanced than simply slicing the bait in half and inserting a hook. Doing so will compromise its effectiveness; the bait will start to spin, causing the hook to become visible and easily detectable.

“The secret lies in inconspicuousness and balance,” says Sharpe. “Both the shank and eye of the hook need to be cleverly concealed and securely held within the bait, and there’s a technique to achieve that (see Step 4). Moreover, the hook’s point should emerge from the very center of the bait’s back, ensuring it’s not positioned off-center or—worse—through its side. A well-centered hook balances the entire plug.”

“Streamlining is equally important. For that reason, trim the ballyhoo’s tail right at its base, making a small-diameter opening, and rig the plug from the tail towards the head. This way, it will encounter less water drag and won’t spin as easily.”

Read Next: How to Rig Trolled Ballyhoo for Fishing

Drift Away or Let It Sink

When fish are swimming in a chum slick, try free-lining a non-weighted ballyhoo plug. This method proves deadly for both muttons and mangroves when they’re swimming off the bottom, and it works perfectly with yellowtails as well—just use a smaller plug for them. To size the plug correctly, simply remove the head of the ballyhoo and section further back as needed.

For scenarios where you’ll be fishing just above the bottom in less than 30 feet of water and minimal current, a simple knocker rig with a sinker slipped onto the leader will do the trick. In deeper waters or stronger currents, consider using a fluorocarbon leader that’s 30 to 40 feet long, attaching an appropriate weight to a three-way swivel positioned above the leader.

Keep It Light

Sharpe advises keeping everything light. Opt for the thinnest fluorocarbon leader that still gets the job done, and select a correspondingly small hook size. Don’t underestimate the advantage of fresh ballyhoo; their quality has a huge impact. If ballyhoo show in your chum slick, try to net a few—most bottom fish are drawn to a fresh-dead ballyhoo plug.

Let’s Do a Split

To catch larger bottom fish or even pelagics, Sharpe suggests using a whole, split-billed ballyhoo. He gently loosens the bait by slightly crushing its backbone and milking it. This is achieved by applying a slight pressure with his thumb and forefinger along the ballyhoo’s back, taking care not to tear the skin. The same light pressure along the bait’s stomach will help expel its excrement, making it more enticing.

Easy Pickings

Using inline (non-offset) circle hooks simplifies the process of fishing with ballyhoo plugs. For bottom baits, simply place the rod in a gunwale holder and let the fish hook themselves. When you see the rod bend and line peeling off the spool, it’s time to grab your setup and enjoy the thrill of the fight.

When you’re free-lining ballyhoo plugs, give it plenty of slack line so the plug can drift naturally with the current, along with any chum or chunks. As soon as you see the slack line start to tighten, engage the drag on your reel and reel steadily to set the hook. Then, you can go back to your routine of pumping and reeling.

Rigging a Ballyhoo Plug

Step 1: Start by carefully removing the ballyhoo’s tail as close to the base as possible. Ensure that the cut is flush and the diameter remains small; this will form the head of your plug. The smaller the diameter, the less resistance it will encounter in the water.

Step 2: Now, insert a circle hook, making sure to align it perfectly with the ballyhoo’s backbone. Bring the hook point out of the center; this will help prevent any spinning.

Step 3: Pull the complete hook through the length of the ballyhoo’s back, along with a few inches of leader material.

Step 4: Reinsert the hook back into the original hole and guide the point back up through the center of the ballyhoo’s back. Move it forward just enough so that the hook’s shank and eye are entirely covered by the bait. Sharpe emphasizes that this step is crucial, as it secures the hook in place, preventing any slippage or pulling out.

Step 5: Finally, pull the standing leader tightly against the hook to eliminate any slack.

Split-Bill Variation: Follow the steps above, adding in the process of splitting the ballyhoo’s head and beak down the center using a sharp knife to add variety to your bait.