How to Choose the Right Sinker

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Two questions answer almost everything

A sinker does two jobs: get your bait down, and keep it where you want it. So before you tie one on, ask two things: how much current is there, and how far do I need to cast? Stronger current and longer casts call for more weight. Calm water and close fish call for less. Use the lightest sinker that still does the job, because less weight means a more natural bait and a better feel for bites.

The shapes worth knowing

Split shot. Tiny round weights you pinch onto the line. Perfect for adding a little weight for finesse presentations, and easy to add or remove on the fly. Best in calm water and close range.

Egg (slip) sinker. An oval weight with a hole through the middle, so the line slides freely. This is the heart of a fishfinder or Carolina rig: a fish can pick up the bait and move off without feeling the weight. A go-to for soaking bait on the bottom inshore.

Pyramid. A pyramid-shaped weight built to cast far and dig into sand. This is the surf fishing standard, because its flat sides keep it from rolling in the wash.

Sputnik (grip sinker). A pyramid with wire arms that grip the bottom. When the surf or current is strong enough to drag a plain pyramid, a sputnik holds your spot.

Bank. A teardrop weight for fishing structure and deeper water, like wrecks and ledges. More of an offshore tool, but good to recognize.

A simple starting kit

For inshore and the beach, you can cover most days with a few split shot, a couple of egg sinkers in different sizes, and some pyramid weights from about 2 to 4 ounces for the surf. Add a sputnik or two if your beach has real current. Match the weight to the day, start light, and add only what you need to hold bottom.