Sinkers and Weights

Sinkers and Weights

Sinkers and weights are used to help your bait reach the desired depth in the water.

Without weight, your bait may float too high or drift too much, especially in deeper water or moving current. Adding a small amount of weight helps you control where your bait sits.

Common Types

There are many types of sinkers available, but for beginners, the simplest and most useful option is the split shot.

Split shot weights:

• Are small and easy to use
• Can be attached directly to your line
• Come in different sizes for different situations

They are a great starting point because you can quickly adjust your setup by adding or removing weight as needed.

How to Use Them

Split shot weights are typically pressed onto the line using pliers.

You can place them:

• A short distance above your hook
• Above a swivel or leader

This helps control how deep your bait sits in the water.

Choosing the Right Amount

The goal is to use just enough weight to:

• Keep your bait at the right depth
• Maintain control of your line

Too much weight can make your setup feel heavy and unnatural, while too little may not get your bait where it needs to be.

Materials

Many sinkers are made from lead, but there are also alternatives such as:

• Tin
• Bismuth

These are often chosen by anglers who prefer more environmentally friendly options.

Keep It Simple

You do not need a large variety of weights to get started.

A small selection of split shot in different sizes will cover most beginner situations and work well with simple setups, including float and bubble fishing.