First Impressions of Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig
The Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig is a pre-tied live bait rig aimed at anglers targeting predatory fish like muskie and pike. Woodstock Line, the manufacturer, promises a fish-catching machine suitable for year-round use in both freshwater and saltwater environments. The rig features a nickel bangle and red hooks intended to attract predators from a distance, making it potentially effective in various fishing techniques.
I was initially drawn to this product due to the need for a quick and reliable rig for targeting northern pike in murky lake conditions. Tying rigs in the field, especially in cold weather, can be a hassle, so a pre-made option seemed appealing.
Upon receiving the Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig, my initial impression was one of simplicity. The components seemed durable enough, the 80 lb. stainless steel wire felt strong, and the red hooks provided a visible contrast. Compared to other pre-made rigs I’ve used, like those from Eagle Claw, the Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig seemed more robust, although lacking any adjustability. I chose this particular rig due to its heavier wire and larger hook size, hoping it would be better suited for handling larger, more aggressive fish. My initial excitement was tempered by the lack of adjustability, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world fishing conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig on a weekend pike fishing trip to a local reservoir known for its stained water and aggressive fish. The water visibility was poor, approximately 2-3 feet, and the weather was overcast with a slight drizzle. I primarily used the rig with a tip-up while ice fishing and with dead sticking techniques.
The Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig proved surprisingly easy to use straight out of the package. I attached a lively shiner to the hooks and set the rig near a weed edge in about 8 feet of water and also attached the rig to a tip up with a frozen smelt. It took about an hour before the tip-up flag went up. I let the pike run with the bait for a few seconds before setting the hook, and the rig performed flawlessly, resulting in a solid hookset.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig continues to hold up well, demonstrating good durability. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the stainless steel wire or hooks. I noticed a slight dulling of the red hook paint, but this hasn’t seemed to affect its fish-attracting capabilities.
Cleaning the rig after use is relatively simple; I just rinse it with fresh water and let it air dry. Compared to some other rigs I’ve used, which tend to fray or rust quickly, the Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig has proven to be more reliable. While it lacks the adjustability of some other rigs, its simplicity and durability make it a dependable option for targeting predatory fish.
Breaking Down the Features of Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig
Specifications
The Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig features an 80 lb. stainless steel 1 x 7 stranded fishing wire, offering significant strength and resistance to abrasion. It uses 5/3 size red hooks, providing a good balance between hook penetration and holding power. The rig also includes a nickel bangle, designed to attract fish with its flash and vibration. It measures approximately 7 inches in length and weighs in at only 0.01 pounds. These specifications translate to a rig that is strong enough to handle large fish, visible in low-light conditions, and lightweight for minimal impact on bait presentation.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the rig’s effectiveness in attracting and hooking fish. The heavy wire ensures the rig can withstand the sharp teeth and powerful jaws of pike and muskie, while the red hooks provide a visual target in murky water.
Performance & Functionality
The Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig excels at its primary function: presenting live bait effectively and securing solid hooksets on predatory fish. The rig’s simplicity is a major strength, allowing for quick and easy deployment in various fishing scenarios, including tip-up fishing, dead sticking, bottom fishing, and trolling. While the lack of adjustability might be a drawback for some anglers, the fixed hook placement ensures consistent hooksets when properly used. The rig meets expectations for durability and performance, consistently delivering reliable results in demanding fishing conditions.
However, I would improve the range of hook sizes available.
Design & Ergonomics
The Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig boasts a simple yet effective design. The materials used, including the stainless steel wire and red hooks, contribute to its overall durability and visibility. While not adjustable, the rig feels well-constructed and balanced. There is no real learning curve; it’s ready to use straight out of the package.
This is a no-frills, functional piece of gear.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel wire and durable hooks suggest a long lifespan for the Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig. With proper care, rinsing after each use, the rig should withstand numerous fishing trips without significant degradation. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional inspection for wear and tear.
It is built to last through several fishing seasons.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig does not come with any additional accessories. Its design is not intended for significant customization. While anglers could potentially swap out the hooks or add beads to the wire, the rig is primarily designed for use as-is. Because it is pre-tied with specific hook placements, there are limited options for adapting the rig to different fishing scenarios or bait sizes.
A few different hook-size options or leader lengths would be beneficial.
Pros and Cons of Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig
Pros
- Durable Construction: The 80 lb. stainless steel wire ensures the rig can withstand the sharp teeth and powerful jaws of predatory fish.
- Effective Hookset: The 5/3 size red hooks provide a good balance between hook penetration and holding power.
- Easy to Use: The rig is ready to use straight out of the package, making it ideal for anglers who value convenience.
- Versatile: The rig can be used with tip-ups, bobbers, for dead sticking, bottom fishing, and trolling.
- Attractiveness: The nickel bangle and red hooks attract predators from a long distance, increasing the chances of a strike.
Cons
- Lack of Adjustability: The fixed hook placement may not be ideal for all fishing scenarios or bait sizes.
- Limited Customization: There are limited options for adapting the rig to different fishing conditions or personal preferences.
Who Should Buy Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig?
The Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig is perfect for anglers targeting predatory fish like pike and muskie, who value convenience and durability. It’s also a good option for ice fishermen using tip-ups, or for those new to fishing who want a hassle-free rig that is ready to go.
Anglers who prefer highly customizable rigs or those targeting smaller fish species should probably skip this product.
A must-have accessory would be a quality pair of line cutters or pliers for removing hooks from caught fish.
Conclusion on Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig
The Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig offers a durable and effective solution for presenting live bait to predatory fish. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a great choice for both novice and experienced anglers, while its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of demanding fishing conditions. At a price of $5.19, the value proposition is solid, especially considering the time saved compared to tying your own rigs.
I would personally recommend the Woodstock Mag Quickset Rig to anyone looking for a reliable and convenient live bait rig for targeting pike, muskie, and other large predators. Get yours today and start landing more fish!