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Main lineBoomLead 4-12ozLong trace 10-20ftSoft eel lureWreck or reef
Technical layout
Main lineBoomLead 4-12ozLong trace 10-20ftSoft eel lureWreck or reef
Bottom rigs · Rig diagram & setup

Flying Collar Rig Diagram & Gear List

A stiff boom holds a long, light trace away from the main line, so a soft eel lure or live sandeel flows out behind the lead and swims naturally as it is wound slowly up from the bottom. It is the traditional UK and Irish way to catch big pollack and coalfish over deep wrecks and reefs.

Where to use it
boat
Difficulty
intermediate
Common in
UK, Ireland

Gear List

  • main Line20-30 lb braid or mono
  • leader15-20 lb fluorocarbon trace
  • leader Length10-20ft trace from the boom to the lure or bait
  • hook Range2/0 - 4/0 hook in a 5-7in soft eel lure, or a live sandeel on a fine-wire hook
  • weight Type4-12oz lead hung from the boom on a short link
  • sinker Drop LengthLead hangs 6-12in below the boom on a short weak link
  • swivelFrench or wire boom (8-12in) with a swivel for the trace
  • extrasSoft eel lure or live sandeel
Optional gear

Gear to build this setup

These Amazon.com searches match the guide's starting specifications. Check the size, listing, and availability in your country before ordering.

Flying collar booms Check leader and sinker compatibility.Search on Amazon2/0 to 4/0 soft eel hooks Check hook size, bait fit, and local hook rules before ordering.Search on Amazon

Affiliate links: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

How to tie the Flying Collar Rig

  1. Thread the main line through or tie it to a French or wire boom.
  2. Hang a 4-12oz lead from the boom on a short link.
  3. Tie a 10-20ft fluorocarbon trace to the boom's swivel and add the eel lure or sandeel.
  4. Lower to the bottom slowly to avoid tangles, then wind up steadily for 20-40 turns and drop back down.

When and where it works best

Drifting over deep wrecks and reefs where pollack and coalfish feed several feet above the structure.

Is the Flying Collar Rig good for beginners?

It is rated intermediate: easy to tie, but worth a little practice to fish well. Practice the connections in the knot guide, and see the Boat Rod for a matching rod.

What fish is the Flying Collar Rig good for?

PollackCoalfish (Saithe)

Related Rigs

Pirk and Muppet RigThree-Way RigHigh-Low RigFish-Finder Rig
Practical starting point only. Adjust line, hook, and sinker sizes for conditions and target fish, and verify current regulations before fishing.

Common Questions

What do I need to tie a Flying Collar Rig?

A 20-30 lb braid or mono main line, a 15-20 lb fluorocarbon trace leader (10-20ft trace from the boom to the lure or bait), a 2/0 - 4/0 hook in a 5-7in soft eel lure, or a live sandeel on a fine-wire hook hook, and a 4-12oz lead hung from the boom on a short link. Full gear list is above.

What is a Flying Collar Rig best for?

The Flying Collar Rig works best for boat fishing, and is a recommended setup for Pollack, Coalfish (Saithe). Difficulty: intermediate.

Is the Flying Collar Rig hard to tie?

It is rated intermediate. The knot guide covers the terminal connections used across RigMyFish rigs, so you can practice each connection separately before building the full setup.