How to put a weight on a fishing line? Easy step by step tutorial

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If you’ve considered taking up fishing as an outdoor hobby or you’re giving fishing a go just for the heck of it, the satisfaction of having tried fishing will come when you catch your bounty.

However, while putting bait to your hook is simple, learning how to put a weight on a fishing line can also be made simple.

What is the purpose of using a sinker on a fishing line?

The purposes of adding weight to fishing lures are:

• to enable you to cast your rod at a distance of your choice
• to keep your rod at a certain level in the water
• and to allow you to drift, troll and anchor your bait

What are the three types of sinkers?

• Split shot Sinker
• Rubber Core Sinker
• Tied Sinker (Ring, Loop, and Eye)

Given below are step by step guides on how to add weight to fishing lures using each type of sinker.

How to Attach Rubber Core Sinker to Fishing Lures

• Step 1: When you wish to fish on the bottom, find the best spot on your fishing lure and attach the split shots eighteen to twenty-four inches from your hook. If using live bait, place the split shots three to four inches from your hook.
• Step 2: Either with the help of pliers or with your hands, open the mouth of the split shot located at one end by pinching the fins at the other end.
• Step 3: Once the split shot opens, take the open end to the desired distance away from the hook and compress the end shut to secure the fishing line.

How to Attach Split Shot to Fishing Lures

• Step 1:  Simply apply some pressure as you insert the line into the rubber-lined groove of the sinker and twist the tabs in opposite directions.
• Step 2: Give a light pull on the sinker to ensure the weight is secure.

How to Attach a Tied Sinker to Fishing Lures

• Step 1: Thread the end of your line through the ring of your sinker.
• Step 2: Make a secure knot right below where the sinker will rest leaving enough space to secure your hook or any tackle you will need.

Tips to bear in mind while putting  a sinker on a fishing line (Dos & Don’ts)

It isn’t enough to learn how to put a weight on a fishing line. If you want a catch, or you want to score good catch consistently, you need to keep the following in mind too:

•  A light sinker will usually be your best option. You can start with that.
• Use the heavier type of split shot if you wish to fish in fast-moving water like rivers and streams or if you plan to cast your fishing line long distances.
• If you are using live bait, say for ice fishing or in cases when your lure is suspended beneath a fishing float, opt for a lighter split shot. Doing so will prevent the bait from coming close to the surface.
• If your slip shots keep slipping, using large loops, pull a loop of your fishing line through the opening of the sinker. Then, fasten the sinker through the loop, and this will secure the weights firmly in place without the need to make permanent knots.
• While rubber core sinkers are reusable, traditional split shot weights are not.
• Sophisticated sinkers like a pyramid, bell, reef, bank, egg, walking, cone and the like require special knots and comparatively complicated configurations.
• For more guidance, refer books and websites, particularly those used as references/resources.

Now that you know how to put a weight on a fishing line, it’s time for you to go fishing. Let me know if you have any follow up questions in the comment section.