Rigging Yamamoto 5-inch Senkos in Saltwater

Rigging Yamamoto 5-inch Senkos in Saltwater

Several rig styles from US fishing techniques translate really well into UK saltwater scenarios - so here we have outlined Rigging Yamamoto 5-inch Senkos

1. Weightless Texas Rig (with Offset EWG Hook)

Use a 5/0 offset shank EWG hook for the 5-inch Senko making a sleek and snag-resistant, ideal for working into kelp beds and broken rocky structure.

2. Weightless Wacky Rig

Use a 3/0 Octopus hook and mount the Senko mid-body. Cast and let it flutter down—fish respond strongly to the slow, horizontal fall. Great in open water or near structure imitating Needle Fish, Sand Eels or Launts.

3. Lightly Weighted Texas Rig

Choose the lightest bullet weight that lets the Senko sink without sacrificing action—often 1/8 oz in lighter conditions, up to 3/8 oz in stronger currents.

4. Shaky Head Presentation

Combine a 4/0 or 5/0 jig-head (weedless) with the Senko threaded onto it. Effective when crawling slowly along rocky or gravel seabed.

5. Ned Rig (Trimmed 5-inch Senkos on Jig Head)

Trim an inch or two off, then thread onto a jig head with an exposed 3/0 hook.  Excellent for dragging across the bottom or swimming slowly through current.

Targeted Techniques by Species

Sea Bass & Pollack

Natural, silver, or white tones to imitate Sand Eels / Launts—use in clear or moderate visibility. Fish them weightless wacky fall or slow, weighted Texas presentations trigger bites. Watch the fluttering fall or gently crawl close to structure.

Wrasse

Use weedless Texas or shaky-head presentations to avoid snags in kelp or around rocks. Work the Senko slowly, with small lifts or pumps to entice reaction strikes—wrasse are aggressive and quick.

Opportunistic Predators in Shore Fishing

5-inch Senkos are great in mixed-ground areas—rock, sand, weed beds. The unique fall and subtle movement mimic falling prey, triggering strikes from pollack, bass, and other predators.