How to Rig a Cut Plug Herring for Salmon Fishing


Right here in my own backyard, I have the pleasure of fishing for Spring Chinook on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Herring is by far the most most popular bait we use for Chinook and for good reason. I’ll show you how to rig a cut plug herring for Salmon fishing. The reason we cut them the way we do is to make it look like a wounded bait fish so the Salmon come up and eat it. Watch the video below for tips on how to rig a cut plug herring.

On our rivers out here we need to be careful of the Salmon on the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Because of this, we have to pinch our barbs. That way if we catch a fish that is wild, we can release it with ease and get it back in the water so it can make its way up to the spawning grounds. Check your local laws before heading out on the water.

Rig a Cut Plug Herring

Pinch the barb on your hook to ensure you can release the fish with ease.

For daily Buoy 10 updates from Cody Herman, follow his YouTube channel.

Cody Herman

Cody Herman, a Pacific Northwest native, finds himself on the water more often than not. He is an accomplished fishing guide and enjoys sharing his knowledge with new anglers. His passion for the outdoors has led him around the world always on the search for the next great adventure.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *