Fishing is a popular pastime enjoyed by millions around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, understanding how to properly set up your fishing line is crucial.
One of the key components of a fishing line setup is the weight, also known as a sinker. But what exactly is a sinker and how do you use it?
In this post, we will explain everything about how you can put on a weight/sinker on a fishing line.
Let’s start.
What is a Sinker?
A sinker, also known as a fishing weight or Knoch, is a small, dense object that is attached to a fishing line. Sinkers come in various shapes and sizes and are typically made from dense materials such as lead. However, due to environmental and health concerns associated with lead, sinkers are increasingly being produced from other dense materials.
Sinkers can be as small as 1 gram (0.035 oz) for applications in shallow water, and even smaller for fly fishing applications, or as large as several pounds (>1 kg) or considerably more for deep-sea fishing. They are formed into nearly innumerable shapes for diverse fishing applications.
What is the Purpose of a Sinker?
The primary purpose of a sinker is to sink your bait or lure down to the desired depth, keeping it close to the bottom where many fish species feed. By adding sinkers to your rig, you can adjust the presentation of your bait and ensure it stays in the strike zone longer, increasing your chances of hooking the big one.
Sinkers are used to increase the rate of sink, anchoring ability, and/or casting distance of a fishing lure or hook. They are crucial in helping you fish your rig efficiently close to the bottom. Different shapes and sizes of sinkers can be used for different types of fishing.
How to Put A Weight on Line – Easy Step-By-Step Tutorial
Here’s how you can put weight on line easily:
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment and Fishing Weight Sinker
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary equipment. This includes your fishing rod, fishing line, hooks, and of course, your sinker or weight.
Sinkers come in various shapes and sizes and are typically made from dense materials.
Step 2: Attach a Weight to Your Line
To attach a weight to your line, you’ll need to decide where you want the weight to be. For shallow water fishing, a combined weight of 1⁄8 ounce (3.5 g) will do the trick. Position 1 or 2 weights 1–2 ft (30–61 cm) from the hook.
Then, pinch the weights onto the line with needlenose pliers. Be careful not to squeeze the sides completely closed since that could damage the line.
Step 3: Tie on Your Hook
Next, you’ll need to tie your hook to the line. Start by threading the line through the eye of the hook. Then, make a small loop in the line and pass it through the eye of the hook again.
Next, take the end of the line and make a small loop around the standing part of the line. Finally, pull the end of the line through the loop and tighten.
Step 4: Add Any Additional Tackle to Fishing Rig
Depending on the type of fishing you’re doing, you might need to add additional tackle to your rig.
This could include things like a bobber or a second hook. Remember to attach your terminal tackle using fishing knots.
Common Tackle Mistakes to Avoid
When setting up your tackle, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Fishing at the wrong time: Most fish tend to stay deeper in the water during the midday sun.
- Choosing an ineffective lure: Lures that look unnatural in the water tend to get fewer bites.
- Selecting the wrong hook: The hook is small, but one of the most important aspects when considering your tackle.
Step 5: Cast Your Line
Once your line is set up, it’s time to cast. To cast a fishing pole, start by reeling in your line until the bait is about 12 inches from the tip of the rod.
Next, grip the base of the rod with your thumb over the button at the back of the reel and face the area of water you want to cast into.
Step 6: Reel in Your Line
After casting your line, you’ll need to reel it in. The right way to reel in a fish is to locate your target, ensure your entire body is facing the target, load the rod back, and cast straight towards your target.
You can employ an Overhead Cast, a Sidearm Cast, and even a Drop cast as you fish.
Different Types Of Sinkers Used In Fishing:
Sinkers are essential tools in fishing, and they come in various shapes and designs to serve different purposes. Here’s a detailed overview of different types of sinkers commonly used in fishing:
Pear-Shaped Sinker:
Made from lead, this sinker has a pear-shaped form. It is versatile and suitable for both predatory and non-predatory fish.
Anglers use it for trolling and drift fishing due to its effective performance in various water conditions.
Cube Shaped Sinker:
Another lead sinker, the cube-shaped design makes it suitable for casting. Similar to the pear-shaped sinker, it is useful for trolling and drift fishing, offering stability and control in the water.
Surfed Sinker:
This wider, rounded sinker provides superior holding ability, making it ideal for surf fishing. It prevents baits from drifting too far, keeping them in the strike zone longer.
Bullet Sinker:
Shaped like bullets, these sinkers have a hole through the middle where the line attaches. They are commonly used in worm fishing for bass and work well with soft plastics.
The streamlined shape reduces resistance, allowing for accurate casts and smooth retrieves.
Bell Sinker:
Bell-shaped sinkers attach to the line via a ring at the top. They are primarily used for fishing below the hook, dragging along the bottom.
The design prevents snagging and allows the sinker to move smoothly over rocks and obstacles.
Olive Sinker:
Specifically designed for ledgering, olive sinkers are used to weight fishing lines. Anglers attach weights directly to the line, allowing the bait to sink to the desired depth.
They are effective for targeting a variety of fish species.
Sliding Sinker:
This fishing device consists of a sinker that slides up and down on the main line. A swivel is attached to a leader and hook. Sliding sinkers provide a free-moving presentation, making them effective for live bait or bottom fishing.
The sliding feature allows fish to take the bait without feeling the weight.
Swivel Sinker:
Swivels are small devices that allow the fishing line to rotate freely, reducing line twist. Swivel sinkers combine the sinker and swivel, preventing tangles and ensuring smooth movement in the water.
They are commonly used in trolling and deep-sea fishing.
Sinker Drop-Shot Rig:
The drop-shot rig is a finesse technique where a weighted leader suspends the bait off the bottom. The sinker is attached at the end of the line, while the hook is tied above it.
This setup keeps the bait at a specific depth, making it highly effective for enticing finicky or suspended fish.
Surf Sinkers:
Pyramid sinkers as well as spider (sputnik) leads are arguably the most commonly used forms of weight for surf fishing.
Surf anglers favor these sinkers because they hold up well to currents and therefore keep baits where they are most likely to bring bites.
How to Attach a Weight to a Fishing Line: 6 Types
Here’s how you can attach a weight to a fishing line:
How to Attach a Split-Shot:
Split-shot sinkers are small, easy-to-use sinkers that can be pinched onto the fishing line.
They are versatile and ideal for adjusting the depth of your bait without retying your line. Great for finesse fishing techniques.
- Step 1: Pinch the split-shot sinker onto your fishing line.
- Step 2: Find a balance between pinching it tight enough to hold securely without damaging your line, and not too loose that it slides up and down your line.
How to Attach an Egg Sinker:
Egg sinkers, named for their oval shape, slide freely on the fishing line. They are commonly used in Carolina rigs and catfish rigs.
The hole through the center allows them to move smoothly, providing natural bait presentation to fish.
- Step 1: Slide the egg sinker onto your line.
- Step 2: Tie a swivel onto the end of your line to prevent the sinker from sliding off.
- Step 3: Attach around 18 inches of line to the other end of the swivel, then add your hook.
How to Attach a Bullet Sinker:
Bullet sinkers have a streamlined bullet-like shape, allowing them to cut through water efficiently. These sinkers are excellent for Texas rigging soft plastics like worms and creature baits.
The pointed end helps them navigate through underwater vegetation.
- Step 1: Slide the bullet sinker onto your line with the pointed end first.
- Step 2: Tie your hook and soft plastic bait to the line below the sinker to keep it in place.
How to Attach a Bell Sinker:
Bell sinkers have a bell-shaped design with a ring at the top for line attachment. They are used to keep bait close to the bottom and are popular for bottom fishing.
Bell sinkers prevent your bait from drifting too far in currents.
- Step 1: Measure about 2 ft above your hook and pinch the line to mark the spot.
- Step 2: Attach the bell sinker above the marked spot to allow your bait to float up, making it more visible to fish.
How to Attach a Bank Sinker:
Bank sinkers are flat, rectangular sinkers designed to hold your rig in place, especially in areas with strong currents or waves.
They are commonly used in river fishing and surf fishing scenarios, anchoring your bait securely.
- Step 1: Place the bank sinker against the fishing line on the side.
- Step 2: Squeeze the sinker with fishing pliers to secure it in place on the line.
How to Attach Hollow Core Lead Wire:
Hollow core lead wire is a flexible, weighted material that can be cut into desired lengths.
Anglers use it to add weight to their rigs without altering the line’s diameter significantly. It provides a subtle, stealthy approach for delicate presentations.
- Step 1: Put the lead in the wire cutter portion of your pliers.
- Step 2: Lightly close the pliers to score a shallow groove all the way around the lead.
- Step 3: Wiggle the lead with your fingers and break it off from the roll.
- Step 4: Insert the tag end of your fishing line into the hollow core lead wire to add weight to your rig.
3 Steps To Put a Weight on a Fishing Line:
Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Split Shot
Split shot weights are small, spherical metal sinkers with a slit on one side.
They are lightweight and perfect for various fishing situations, especially in ponds, lakes, and rivers. Follow these steps to use them effectively:
Positioning the Weights:
Decide how deep you want your bait to be and position 1 or 2 split shot weights approximately 1–2 feet (30–61 cm) above the hook on your fishing line.
Using Needlenose Pliers:
Use needlenose pliers to pinch the weights securely onto the line. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as it might damage the line. Ensure the weights are firmly attached.
Checking Stability:
Give the line a gentle tug to ensure the split shot doesn’t move. It should stay in place to maintain your desired bait depth.
Step 2: Rubber Core
Rubber core sinkers are elongated metal cylinders with a slit and a rubber core. They are larger than split shot weights and allow for fishing in deeper waters. Here’s how to use them:
Attaching the Sinker:
Position the rubber core sinker approximately 2 feet (0.61 m) above your hook on the fishing line. Adjust this distance based on your target depth.
Using Needlenose Pliers:
Similar to split shot weights, pinch the rubber core sinker onto the line using needlenose pliers. Ensure a secure grip without damaging the line.
Step 3: Ring Loop & Eye
This method involves threading your fishing line through the eyelet of the weight. Here are the detailed steps:
Threading the Line:
Pass the fishing line through the eyelet of the weight, ensuring it goes through smoothly.
Tying an Overhand Knot:
Tie a simple overhand knot with the line, leaving a long tail for further threading.
Thread the Tail Back:
Take the long tail and thread it back through the eyelet of the weight, creating a loop around the weight.
Securing the Knot:
Pull both ends of the line to tighten the knot and secure the weight in place. Make sure the knot is tight and the weight doesn’t slide along the line.
How to Remove Weight From the Line?
To remove weight from a fishing line, you can follow these steps:
Identify the Weight:
Determine what type of weight you have on your line. It could be a split-shot sinker, a rubber core sinker, or another type.
Loosen the Weight:
If it’s a split shot sinker, you can use needle-nose pliers or regular pliers to gently pinch the prongs that hold it in place until it’s loose enough for removal.
Remove the Weight:
Once the weight is loose, you should be able to slide it off the end of your line. Be careful not to pull too hard or you might risk breaking your line.
Check the Line:
After removing the weight, check your line for any signs of damage. If the line is frayed or weakened, you may want to cut that section of the line and re-tie your hook or lure.
Additional Tips:
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when removing weight from your fishing line:
Inspect the Line:
Before reusing the line, carefully inspect it for any signs of abrasions, nicks, or weak spots where the weight was attached. If you notice any damage, it’s essential to cut that section of the line and re-tie your hook or lure.
Weakened line can lead to lost fish or even a snapped line during a crucial moment.
Avoid Repeated Use:
While it’s common to reuse weights, especially split shot, it’s a good practice to avoid using heavily pinched split shot repeatedly.
Over time, the metal can become fatigued, leading to a weakened grip on the line. If you find that a split shot has been significantly pinched, it’s better to replace it with a fresh one.
Use Quality Materials:
Invest in high-quality split shot and rubber core sinkers. Cheaper, inferior weights can have rough edges or poor slit designs, making them more difficult to remove without damaging the line.
Quality weights often have smooth, well-defined slits, making them easier to pinch and remove.
Consider Environmentally Friendly Alternatives:
Lead-based weights can be harmful to the environment, especially in freshwater ecosystems. Consider using environmentally friendly alternatives such as tungsten or bismuth weights, which are non-toxic and more eco-friendly.
Practice Knot Tying:
If you frequently use the ring loop & eye method, practice tying secure knots that are easy to untie. A well-tied knot is essential for both the effectiveness of your rig and the ease of removing the weight later.
Carry Different Sizes:
Carry a variety of weights in different sizes and styles in your tackle box. Having a selection allows you to quickly adapt to changing fishing conditions without compromising the integrity of your line by repeatedly adding or removing weight.
Frequently Asked Questions: Put Weight on a Fishing Line
Is It Necessary To Use Fishing Weights On A Fishing Line?
While it’s not always necessary to use weights on a fishing line, they can be very beneficial. Weights help your bait or lure sink to the desired depth in the water where fish are more likely to be found.
They can also help you cast your line further and navigate through underwater structures without getting your line caught.
Where To Put Weight On A Fishing Line?
The placement of the weight on a fishing line depends on the type of fishing you’re doing. For bottom fishing, weights are typically placed above the hook.
For float fishing, weights are placed below the float and above the hook. The exact distance can vary, but a common recommendation is to place the weight about 1-2 feet from the hook.
How To Properly Distribute Weights On The Line?
Proper weight distribution on a fishing line depends on the type of fishing and the conditions. For example, if you’re fishing in a current, you might need to add more weight to keep your bait or lure at the desired depth. If you’re fishing in still water, less weight may be needed.
The key is to use the minimum amount of weight necessary to achieve the desired depth and presentation.
Are Sinkers And Weights The Same Thing?
Yes, in fishing terminology, the terms “sinker” and “weight” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to a piece of metal or other heavy material that is attached to a fishing line to help it sink to a certain depth in the water.
Do fishing weights go above or below the hook?
Fishing weights typically go above the hook. This helps to keep the bait or lure suspended at the desired depth and can also prevent the line from getting snagged on underwater structures.
The exact distance between the weight and the hook can vary depending on the type of fishing and the conditions, but a common recommendation is to place the weight about 1-2 feet above the hook.
How much weight should I put on my fishing line?
The amount of weight you should put on your fishing line depends on several factors, including the type of fishing you’re doing, the conditions, and the type of fish you’re targeting.
As a general rule, you should use the lightest weight that allows you to cast your line to the desired distance and keep your bait or lure at the desired depth.
How to set up a fishing rod for lake fishing?
Setting up a fishing rod for lake fishing involves several steps:
- Assemble the Rod: Start by assembling your fishing rod according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Attach the Reel: Next, attach your fishing reel to the rod. Make sure it’s securely fastened and aligned correctly.
- Thread the Line: Thread your fishing line through the guides on the rod, starting from the tip and working your way down to the reel.
- Spool the Reel: Attach the line to the reel and start winding to spool the line onto the reel. Make sure the line is wound tightly and evenly.
Attach the Hook and Weight: Finally, tie your hook to the end of the line and attach your weight. The weight should typically be placed about 1-2 feet above the hook.