Hey folks, Harry from Tackle Express checking in. If you're gearing up for rockfish season here in SoCal—if you are chasing vermilion, chuckleheads, or a mixed bag off the coast—the right rig makes all the difference between a limit and a skunk.

The king of simplicity and productivity? The double dropper loop rig. It's straightforward, deadly effective, and perfect for drifting over rocky structure in 100–600+ feet (check current regs—boat-based rockfish open all depths April–June 2026, then inshore limits apply).

Start with a torpedo sinker clipped to the bottom—size it right based on depth, current, and wind. In 100–150 ft, 6–8 oz often does the trick; push to 300–600 ft and you'll want 16–20 oz minimum to punch through and stay vertical. We stock a full range of torpedo sinkers at tackleexpress.com—grab what you need and get it shipped same-day.

For hooks, my go-to is the Owner Aki Twist 1/0—versatile enough for squid strips, whole small squid, sardines, anchovies, or mackerel. It's strong, sharp, and catches everything from schoolies to bigger reds. Thread on bait, and you're set.

Tie your own double dropper loops (we've got knot videos on our YouTube), or grab pre-made rock cod rigs—30–40 lb test with swivels top and bottom. Clip your main line to the top swivel, sinker to the bottom, and drop. Super easy for beginners.

Technique tip: Drop to bottom, click into gear, crank 1–3 turns up to avoid snags (rocks eat gear!). Drift covers ground—every few drifts, free-spool back down to stay near contour changes. Watch that rod tip dance? That's your bite. Give a smooth pump-and-reel or steady crank to set the hook.

Bonus: Keep line vertical to feel bites—thin braid helps cut scope in current.

Grab your favorite owner hooks, pre-made rigs, torpedoes, and more in our Saltwater Gear Collection. Fast shipping means you're on the water sooner.