Opening-Day Rigs

If you’re lookingto tangle with bass, trout or panfish this spring, these versatile rigs willget the job done. Whatever your fishing challenge, you can count on this tackleto deliver.

BASS BEST FOR: Detecting subtle bites in heavy cover

AIRRUS N-SYNCHAND SHIMANO CURADO The Airrus N-Synch ANSC 721M features a continuously wound blank that swellsinto a sensitive grip. Team it with a Shimano CU200DHSV that sucks in 30 inchesof line per crank, thanks to its 7:1 gear ratio, and you’ll be ready to haulmonster largemouth from heavy cover. (Rod: $226; 702-395-2173;rodsbyairrus.com. Reel: $200; 949-951-5003 x3142; shimano.com) Tie On … TERMINATOR T-1 SPINNERBAIT A 1-ounce bait with the frame of a ½-ouncer. Gets deep without spooking fish.($8.99; 800-944-4766; terminator lures.com) TROUT BEST FOR: All-around light freshwater duty

QUANTUM XPS RODAND REEL Quantum’s XPS701ML is a medium-light 7-foot rod for 1/8- to 3/8-ounce lures.It’s not an ultra-flexible stick like some trout rods, but it’ll handle down to4-pound-test line and you’ll be able to set a hook solidly with it. Quantum’sXtralite XPS 05 spinning reel is a perfect match. This reel holds 125 yards of4-pound-test line, has six bearings and a 5.2:1 gear ratio. (Rod, $50; reel,$40; 800-588-9030; quantumfishing.com)

Tie On …WORDEN’S ROOSTER TAIL This 1950s vintage in-line spinner design is updated with new “flash”holographic colors. ($3.72; 509-854-1311; yakimabait.com) PANFISH BEST FOR: Fly rodders on a budget

ALBRIGHTYELLOWSTONE KIT Okay, calling this a panfish rig isn’t exactly correct. The AlbrightYellowstone Emergency Outfit will work just fine for trout and even lightsmallmouth fishing, too. It’s also a smart option to bring along as a backup incase your high-end fly rod loses an argument with the door of your pickup. Thekit includes a two-piece, 9-foot graphite rod and a die-cast disc-drag reel.You’ll need a 5- or 6-weight line for the rig, plus backing, of course. (Rodand reel, $69; 866-359-7335; albrighttackle.com) Tie On … GAINES SNEAKY PETE This classic hard-bodied popper creates minimal surface commotion. It’s idealfor picky panfish. ($4.99 for two; 800-237-4444; cabelas.com