Santee Cooper Rig
A slip-sinker rig with a float that lifts the bait just above bottom.
Best situations
This technique is especially useful around reservoir flats, river channels and snaggy bottom. Let fish position, water clarity, current, wind and available cover determine exactly how aggressively you fish it.
Basic setup
Sliding sinker, swivel, leader, small peg float and hook. Match rod, reel and line strength to the cover, bait size and fish you expect to encounter.
Presentation
Set the bait behind the float so it rides above debris and becomes easier for fish to locate. It can be anchored or slowly dragged.
Adjust float size to bait size; the goal is lift, not pulling the whole rig toward the surface. On Louisiana waters, pay close attention to seasonal water level, current, vegetation and water clarity because these can change the productive version of the technique from one trip to the next.
When should you try it?
Year-round is a good starting window, but Louisiana's mild climate can extend many patterns. Instead of relying only on the calendar, watch water temperature, spawning movement, bait location and recent weather.