Live Bait — Bobber Rig

The classic bobber and live bait setup — universally effective for crappie, perch, walleye, pike, and trout. The bobber suspends the bait at a precise depth and signals strikes visually.

When to use it

Effective year-round. Spring is peak for crappie and walleye with minnows under a bobber in 5–12 ft. Summer produces panfish in weed edges. Winter through the ice is a staple for perch and crappie with waxworms or small minnows.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Attach the bobber to the line at a depth that puts the bait 6–12 inches above the bottom (or target depth).

2. 2

   Hook the minnow lightly through the back — just behind the dorsal fin — to keep it alive and swimming naturally.

3. 3

   Cast gently to avoid throwing the minnow off the hook.

4. 4

   Watch the bobber — slight movement means the bait is active, which is good.

5. 5

   A strike looks like the bobber diving sharply or moving steadily sideways.

6. 6

   Give the fish a second to take the bait, then set the hook with a firm sweep.

Pro Tip

Use the smallest bobber that will support the bait. A fish feels resistance when it grabs the minnow — a big bobber means it drops the bait before you can set the hook.

More Techniques

Build a plan that tells you exactly when to use this technique — for your species, your location, today.