Can you show me how to set up a PVA bag rig for catfish?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

Creating a visual diagram from scratch isn't within my capabilities, but I can certainly walk you through the steps and provide resources that can help guide you visually. **Wels catfish** fishing at Chigborough Lakes certainly calls for a robust setup, and the solid **PVA bag method** is a fantastic choice.

### Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up the Rig:

1. **Mainline Attachment**: Use a **50lb-80lb braided mainline**. If you're using an inline lead, thread it onto the mainline and secure with a tail rubber. For a lead clip, attach it securely so it can release under pressure.

2. **Leader Knot**: Attach a **50lb+ monofilament leader** using a Palomar or Albright Knot. This will withstand abrasion from catfish teeth and snags.

3. **Hair Rig for Hook Bait**: Thread a **small yellow boilie** or pop-up onto a hair rig and secure with a boilie stop. Attach the hook using a knotless knot.

4. **Connect Hooklink to Leader**: Use a strong swivel (size 4-6) to connect the hooklink to the leader. Make sure the hooklink is 12-18 inches long for flexibility.

5. **Prepare the PVA Bag**: Fill it with halibut pellets, fishmeal pellets, and crushed boilies. Place the hook and part of the hooklink inside, secure the bag, and attach it to the hooklink.

6. **Final Touches**: Soak the PVA bag in fish oil or krill liquid for a strong scent trail. Double-check that all your knots are secure.

### How It Works:
Once cast, the PVA bag dissolves, releasing the pellets and hook bait into a concentrated area. The strong leader and hooklink help prevent break-offs from large catfish.

### Tackle Considerations:
- **Rod**: 3.5lb-5lb test curve catfish rod
- **Reel**: Big pit or baitrunner reel with at least 300m of 50lb braid
- **Drag System**: Ensure your reel has a strong drag system to handle long catfish runs.

### Additional Resources:
- [How To Set Your Lines When Carp Fishing - EXPLAINED!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7xtJHz7x-c) ![thumbnail](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/N7xtJHz7x-c/default.jpg)
- [This Catfish Rig WON'T Let You Down](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkOZfsGNmbk) ![thumbnail](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NkOZfsGNmbk/default.jpg)

### Product Suggestions:
- [Mimilure PVA Fishing Bait Bags](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LQ7N5OI?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) ![Product](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/417q81cBBYL._SL160_.jpg)

Remember, the key to success is in the details. Take your time setting up your rig, and don't hesitate to adjust your strategy based on conditions at the lake. Tight lines and happy fishing!

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