Rigging baits while on the fishing grounds is an inevitable part of every fishing trip, and on Booby Trap, we use this simple bucket system for rigging swordfish baits.
For a secure base and working surface, we added a nonslip ring for the bottom of the bucket, as well as a cutting-board lid that fits on top. Several different manufacturers make these, and you can pick one up at most tackle shops.
Next, cut a piece of hose — I prefer polyester-reinforced clear PVC tubing — and through-bolt either end onto the inside rim of the bucket to create a place to stow your knives.
By siliconing a piece of plexiglass on the inside of the bucket, the blades of the knives are protected, preventing you from getting cut. I also added an old outrigger tip to hold a spool of floss to have handy when rigging, and you can even melt or drill holes in the top of the rubber hose for your rigging needles.
