The Tokyo Rig is a fairly new presentation to the fishing community and is designed for largemouth bass in heavy cover. However, it can actually be a great walleye bait when used in the right situation. 

It works similarly to a bottom bouncer and presents your bait near the bottom. It can be fished  fast or slow, through weeds or over cover. It is really a versatile presentation. 

The Tokyo rig is set up similar to a three way rig. One swivel connects to your line. Below that there is a two and a half inch dropper arm that you attach your weight to. Then you have your hook connected across from the swivel. They are all attached to a split ring.

Because everything is attached to the split rig you are able to give your bait a lot of movement in the water.

The Tokyo rig can be used with live bait like leeches or crawlers or can be worked effectively with plastics. 

One real benefit of the Tokyo Rig is the ability to switch out weights easily.

This is helpful because you can adjust weights according to the speed and depth that you are fishing.

For example, if you are fishing shallow water around ten feet deep, you can use a 1/8th ounce weight. If you are fishing deeper waters in the 20-25 feet range, you can use a 1/2 ounce to 3/4 ounce weight. 

This presentation is a great way to fish for walleyes and bass alike and it is definitely something you will want to add to your arsenal this year.

In this article, we will be discussing the technique of Tokyo rigging for walleye fishing. Tokyo rigging is a versatile and effective method that can be used to catch a variety of fish species, including walleye. We will explore the benefits of using this rig, the equipment needed, and some tips for success.

What is Tokyo Rigging?

Tokyo rigging is a finesse fishing technique that involves using a specialized rig to present bait to fish. The rig consists of a weight, a hook, and a leader line. The weight is typically a bullet-shaped sinker that is attached to the main line. The hook is attached to a separate leader line, which is then connected to the main line using a swivel or a knot.

The Tokyo rig allows for precise bait presentation and increased sensitivity, making it an excellent choice for targeting walleye. The rig can be used with a variety of baits, including soft plastics, live bait, and even artificial lures like jigs. It is especially effective when fishing in areas with cover or structure, such as rocks, grass, or zebra mussel beds.

Benefits of Tokyo Rigging for Walleye Fishing

There are several benefits to using the Tokyo rig for walleye fishing:

1. Precise Bait Presentation: The Tokyo rig allows for precise bait placement, enabling you to target specific areas where walleye are likely to be hiding. The weight-forward design of the rig allows for long casts, covering a large area of water quickly.
2. Increased Sensitivity: The Tokyo rig provides increased sensitivity, allowing you to feel even the slightest nibble or bite. This is crucial when fishing for walleye, as they can be quite subtle in their strikes.
3. Versatility: The Tokyo rig can be used with a variety of baits, making it a versatile option for walleye fishing. Whether you prefer using soft plastics, live bait, or artificial lures, the Tokyo rig can accommodate your choice.

Equipment Needed for Tokyo Rigging

To effectively Tokyo rig for walleye, you will need the following equipment:

1. Tokyo Rig: The Tokyo rig consists of a weight, a hook, and a leader line. You can purchase pre-made Tokyo rigs or create your own using the necessary components.
2. Rod and Reel: A medium-fast action rod and a high-quality spinning reel are recommended for Tokyo rigging. A seven-foot medium-fast rod, such as the Saint Croix Legend X, is a versatile option that can handle a variety of fishing scenarios.
3. Line: It is important to use high-quality line when Tokyo rigging for walleye. Braided line, such as Sufix 131, is recommended for its durability, smoothness, and long casting capabilities.

Tips for Success with Tokyo Rigging

Here are some tips to help you succeed when Tokyo rigging for walleye:

1. Experiment with Different Baits: While the Tokyo rig can be used with a variety of baits, it’s important to experiment and find what works best for walleye in your fishing location. Soft plastics, live bait, and artificial lures like jigs can all be effective options.
2. Pay Attention to Bait Placement: The Tokyo rig allows for precise bait placement, so be sure to target areas where walleye are likely to be hiding, such as rocks, grass, or zebra mussel beds. Cast your rig and let it sink to the desired depth before starting your retrieve.
3. Stay Patient and Be Observant: Walleye can be subtle in their strikes, so it’s important to stay patient and be observant. Keep an eye on your line for any twitches or movement that could indicate a bite. If you feel any resistance or a slight nibble, set the hook gently but firmly.
4. Use a Sensitive Rod and Reel: A medium-fast action rod and a high-quality spinning reel are recommended for Tokyo rigging. These will provide the sensitivity needed to feel even the slightest bites from walleye.
5. Practice Proper Hook Setting: When you feel a bite, it’s important to set the hook properly to ensure a solid hook-up. Instead of a hard hookset, try a sweeping hookset motion to avoid ripping the bait out of the fish’s mouth.
6. Stay Versatile and Adapt: Fishing conditions can change, so it’s important to stay versatile and adapt your Tokyo rigging technique accordingly. Pay attention to the weather, water conditions, and the behavior of the fish to make any necessary adjustments.