How to Fish Using a Rattling Cork

Rattling corks, developed during the 1960s, have become a mainstay with anglers fishing redfish, speckled trout, striped bass, flounder and drum fish. Weighted or nonweighted, the hard plastic corks are available in a variety of shapes, including torpedo, egg, oval and tapered with concave tops. Inside the hollow body of the cork are either brass or steel beads or a combination of a small rod and beads. When entering or moving in the water, the beads emit clicking vibrations similar to those made by live shrimp as they move underwater. Rattling corks can be purchased at sporting outlets and bait shops.

Step 1

Thread two to three glass beads onto the fishing line. Glass beads add to the rattling noise.

Step 2

Anchor a rattling cork about 8 inches above the end of the fishing line by holding in the top snap first, inserting the line under the clip, and wrapping the line at least twice around the clip before letting it go. Do the same with the bottom clip.

Step 3

Avoid wrapping the line around the clip on either end of the rattling cork to slip rig the cork. This will allow the cork to freely move up and down the fishing line.

Step 4

Tie and knot the prehooked leader to the end of the line using a Palomar (see Resources) or other secure knot, then bait the hook with live or dead shrimp, fin fish bait or a soft plastic lure.

Step 5

Cast the line in a sideways motion near underwater rock formations, drop-offs or grassy areas and let out line as the cork drifts with the current. Let it sit for about 30 seconds or so when it slows, then slightly twitch the line. This will cause the cork to rattle and the bait to move.