A bolt rig works by using the weight of the lead to instantly set the hook when a fish picks up the bait and attempts to move away.
The Mechanics Explained
The core principle behind a bolt rig is creating a semi-fixed or fixed point of resistance at the lead. Unlike a running lead rig where the mainline can slide freely through the lead, in a bolt rig, the connection between the mainline and the lead is restricted or locked.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Rig Construction: A bolt rig typically involves the hooklink tied to a swivel, and the lead setup incorporating a mechanism to stop the swivel. Often, the lead has an insert designed for this purpose.
- The Lock: According to the reference provided, the swivel part of the ring swivel will push into the lead insert to create the bolt rig effect. This action essentially locks the lead in place relative to the point where the hooklink meets the mainline.
- The Take: When a carp (or other fish) picks up the bait attached to the hooklink, it typically begins to move away.
- The Resistance: As the fish moves, the mainline tightens, and because the swivel is locked in the lead insert, the weight of the lead becomes fixed resistance.
- Hook Set: Since the mainline won't pass through because the swivel is locking the lead in place, the sudden, heavy resistance from the lead drives the hook point home into the fish's mouth. This immediate, self-setting action is known as the "bolting" effect.
This method is highly effective because the fish is often startled by the unexpected and significant resistance, causing it to react in a way that helps secure the hook.
Key Components and Their Role
- Lead: Provides the necessary weight for resistance.
- Lead Insert/Mechanism: The part within or attached to the lead that interacts with the swivel to create the lock.
- Swivel: Connects the hooklink to the mainline and is designed to lock into the lead insert.
- Hooklink: The shorter line section connecting the swivel to the hook and bait.
By locking the swivel into the lead, the rig transforms the lead from a simple weight into a crucial component for hook setting the moment the fish applies tension by moving away.
