Best Damiki Rigging Tackle and Rod Setups

Damiki rigging minnow profile baits have proven indispensable on the decks of both amateur and professional anglers nationwide. In this video, Wired2fish’s Kobie Koenig offers a detailed breakdown of his preferred techniques and equipment choices that cater to certain weather conditions and the unique behaviors of fish.

TACKLE USED (retail links)

LONG ROD DAMIKI RIG SETUP

ROD – Trika 6X Carbon-Weave Spinning Rod, 7’6″ Medium: Buy at Trika Rods
REEL – Shimano Twin Power FE Spinning Reel: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
PLASTIC – Z-Man Scented JerkShadZ: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
JIGHEAD – Northland Tackle Smeltinator Jig: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at Northland Fishing Tackle
LINE (braided line) – PowerPro Super8Slick V2 Braided Line, 8-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
LINE (fluorocarbon leader) – Shimano Mastiff FC Fluorocarbon Line, 10-pound: Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse

SHORT ROD DAMIKI RIG SETUP

ROD – Trika 6X Carbon-Weave Spinning Rod, 7′ Medium: Buy at Trika Rods
REEL – Shimano Stradic FM Spinning Reel: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
PLASTIC – Rapala CrushCity Freeloader: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
JIGHEAD – VMC Hybrid Swimbait Jighead: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
LINE (braided line) – PowerPro Super8Slick V2 Braided Line, 8-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
LINE (fluorocarbon leader) – Shimano Mastiff FC Fluorocarbon Line, 10-pound: Buy at FishUSA | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
*Additional gear links at the bottom

THE ESSENCE OF DAMIKI RIGGING

Koenig starts by introducing the basics of the jig and minnow setup, known by a wide variety of names including “Damiki rig.” He also explains how advancements in technology, like forward-facing sonar, have transformed how anglers utilize this Damiki rig setup. What was once a vertical, below the boat technique, has now turned into an open water technique, targeting fish exceeding 100 feet away from the boat. Whether you’re reeling straight or incorporating subtle rod tip movements, Koenig provides insight into tailoring your approach based on the fish’s behavior observed through sonar.

PAIRING THE RIGHT JIG AND MINNOW

Koenig dives into the specifics of choosing the right jig head and plastic minnow. He highlights popular options for the Damiki rig that have dominated recent competitions, including a notable victory at the 2023 Bassmaster Classic. Another detail Koenig discusses is the importance of the jig head design in achieving the desired bait action. Rolling or obtaining side flash can often be crucial for enticing finicky fish.

ROD AND REEL RECOMMENDATIONS

Further refining his Damiki rig technique, Koenig recommends a stiffer rod to effectively transmit movement to the bait at long distances. He also details why a longer rod like the ultra sensitive Trika 6X line of rods might be your best choice for maintaining control and maximizing the effectiveness of your setup. He also covers reel and line preferences, advocating for a larger reel with 8-15 pound braid paired with a 10 pound fluorocarbon leader to balance visibility and strength.

This comprehensive Damiki rig guide is tailored for anyone looking to master the use of minnow baits, whether you’re a novice seeking to learn the basics or an experienced angler aiming to refine your technique.