Krippled Minnow

Rigging Krippled Minnow (3 to 6 Inch Baitfish)

Figure 1

To bait a Krippled Minnow, slide the plastic head up the leader approximately 6 inches away from the hook(s). Pull the red plastic pin from the holes in the head. Insert the bait snugly into the plastic head cavity—make sure the back of the bait is on the same side as the leader exit hole on the nose.

With the bait tight in the cavity, hold the red pin by the ball end and insert the point into the round hole. Push it straight down through the bait and out the lower hole. For frozen bait, first make a dry run using a toothpick.

Holding the baitfish as shown, insert the hook into the side about 1/2 inch behind and below the dorsal fin, high on the bait. Roll the hook point through and out the opposite side. The shank should lie flat against the bait. Carefully curve the bait toward the hook side so the tail curves inward (Fig. 2).

Figure 2

If the bait is fresh, fat, or soft, push a dry toothpick into the flesh just under the skin in the tail region. This will help hold the curve in the bait (Fig. 3 & 4).

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Replace the toothpick point in the pinhead to create a friction stop. Push it in alongside the leader until snug and break off clean. Replace when the leader slides too freely (Fig. 5).

Tips for Success

• Always use firm, straight, bright bait, kept moist and cold.
• Troll at speeds of 2–3 knots, with bait revolutions of 1–2 per second.
• The desired action is a moderately slow spiral roll.
• If using a dodger or flasher, choose one at least 11 inches in length.
• Always sharpen your hooks—and keep them sharp.
• Always test your rigged bait for correct action alongside the boat before fishing.