I know this is a bass fishing forum. Trout season is still (ok) in central PA but the water temperature is rising. I am fishing with a 10 year old nephew and we are about to go to Walker Lake in Snyder County due to the temperature changes. Alot of crappie, bass, walleye, catfish, pike populate the lake. 

 

I am going to use minnows for him as the primary bait. Fatheads or Rosey Reds rigged to a slip bobber rig on four pound test. The hook is a size 6 Eagle Claw Rotating Hook. I am going to use a slip bobber so we are able to adjust depth. I think this setup will allow him to catch alot of different species. What is the best way to rig this setup?

 

Should I use a ball swivel and a leader line after the bobber so if we experience a snag or line break we don't use the bobber? And if we use a ball swivel, what type of leader line and test should we use?

 

Currently he is using four pound co-polymer line.

 

This will be a primary rig for the younger guy to learn with this year and I think by using minnows, it gives him the opportunity to catch many species.

 

You can use a swivel and leader if you like but its not necessarily since you are already using copolymer. You can just use some split shots above the hook as weight. 

One trick to not lose your float is to put another bobber stop under your float. Usually closer to the sinker, so you can still make good cast. If you get stuck and break off, the bobber stop will keep your float from coming off your line.

I also use minnows for trout fishing in the winter. Same technique as you mentioned. But i use high visibility braid as a main line to a swivel with a mono leader. The advantage of braid is further casting and i can see my line better to take up the slack if its windy.