Kite Rig Diagram & Gear List

A fishing kite flown from its own rod carries the fishing line out through release clips, so a live bait dangles and splashes right at the surface well away from the boat. Sailfish anglers in Florida and Australia use it because the bait stays at the top without any line or leader in the water for a fish to see.

Where to use it: boat
Difficulty: advanced
Common in: US, Australia

Gear List

main Line20-30 lb monofilament
leader40-60 lb fluorocarbon
leader Length10-15ft of leader to the hook
hook Range5/0 - 7/0 non-offset circle hook
weight TypeNone, the kite holds the bait at the surface
sinker Drop LengthNot applicable; the fishing line runs through a release clip on the kite line
swivelSmall ball-bearing swivel, with a float or bead stop above the leader
extrasFishing kite on a dedicated kite rod, Release clips on the kite line, Stop bead or float to hold the release position

Optional gear

Gear to build this setup

These Amazon.com searches match the guide's starting specifications. Check the size, listing, and availability in your country before ordering.

Fishing kite release clips Check compatibility with the kite system.Search on Amazon 5/0 to 7/0 non-offset circle hooks Check hook size, bait fit, and local hook rules before ordering.Search on Amazon

Affiliate links: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

How to tie the Kite Rig

Fly the kite from a dedicated kite rod and attach one or two release clips to the kite line.
Tie the fishing line to a swivel and a 10-15ft leader with a 5/0 - 7/0 circle hook, with a stop bead or small float above the swivel.
Hook a live bait lightly through the back and snap the fishing line into the release clip.
Let out kite line until the bait splashes at the surface; when a fish eats, the line pops free.

When and where it works best

Steady offshore breeze, sailfish and pelagics working near the surface over reef edges and color changes.

Is the Kite Rig good for beginners?

It is rated advanced: it needs heavier specialist tackle and some experience to rig and fish safely. Practice the connections in the knot guide, and see the Boat Rod for a matching rod.

What fish is the Kite Rig good for?

Sailfish

Handling and regulations: Rules on billfish, bluefin tuna, sharks, and other large pelagics change often and vary by country and state. Check current local regulations, use circle hooks where required, and keep fish in the water for release whenever possible.

Practical starting point only. Adjust line, hook, and sinker sizes for conditions and target fish, and verify current regulations before fishing.

Common Questions

What do I need to tie a Kite Rig?

A 20-30 lb monofilament main line, a 40-60 lb fluorocarbon leader (10-15ft of leader to the hook), a 5/0 - 7/0 non-offset circle hook hook, and a None, the kite holds the bait at the surface. Full gear list is above.

What is a Kite Rig best for?

The Kite Rig works best for boat fishing, and is a recommended setup for Sailfish. Difficulty: advanced.

Is the Kite Rig hard to tie?

It is rated advanced. The knot guide covers the terminal connections used across RigMyFish rigs, so you can practice each connection separately before building the full setup.