2 Must Try Shrimp Rigs: Knocker vs Newcomer
- By: Luke Simonds
- on
When it comes to catching fish in the winter, there’s one bait that’s the GOAT: shrimp.
Everything eats it, from sheepshead to snapper to grouper. But here’s the thing—not all shrimp rigs are created equal.
Most anglers think tossing a shrimp on a hook is all it takes, and a lot of folks swear by the knocker rig as the ultimate solution. But if you’re not rigging it the right way you could be missing out on a ton of action. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way.
Over the years, I’ve tested a ton of rigs, but when it comes to fishing deeper rocks, ledges, or rubble, two setups stand out: the knocker rig and the sheepshead rig.
The knocker rig is a tried-and-true classic, but the sheepshead rig brings a modern twist that’s been turning heads—and catching fish.
Want to know what they are and how to rig them? Then check out the video below!
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Tight lines,
Luke Simonds
Chief Fishing Addict
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STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish every trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).
Going to give it a try next week
I haven’t ever tried the sheepshead rig but I used the knocker rig several times with good success. Plus, like you say, the tackle is cheap. Great, as always Luke.
Thanks
Awesome video Thanks Luke 🤙🏽
Great video. I can’t wait to try both.
I have used the sliding weight with great results. Will try the sheep’s head rig. Thanks
Glad to see that you enjoyed this video!
thanks for the video Luke…can’t wait to try this.
Our pleasure!
I have tried both styles and prefer the hogfish ball jig purchased from https://captainchappy.com/ well made great customer service. Recently used 2oz in nj for tog with green crab worked well
Thanks for sharing the intel
Never tried either rig before, but certainly will
Please keep us posted as to which one you feel works best once you’ve had a chance to try them out.
Least amount of the tackle better . Sheepshead knocker rigger hung too much . The regular knocker rig the hook lay’s nicely and the fish takes the bait with the line , then set the hook .
Thanks for making time to post the helpful comment Gerard!
I really like the knocker rig. I have caught sheepshead, reds, trout, and black drum on it.
Thanks for sharing your results!