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Saltwater Gear
Sinker
Gets your bait down
Weight beats current and surf. Use the lightest sinker that still holds bottom where you are fishing.
What it does
Weights your line so bait sinks.
When to use it
In current, deep water, or surf.
Common mistake
Using way too much weight.
🛒 Shop Guide
Split-shot assortment
$4 – $8
Tiny adjustments for docks and bays.
Egg sinkers 1/2 – 1 oz
$5 – $10
Standard pier bottom rig.
Pyramid sinkers 2 – 3 oz
$6 – $12
Holds sand in beach surf.
What to look for
- Non-lead options: tungsten, steel, or bismuth
- Egg or split-shot for calm water, pyramid for surf, bank for rocks
- A small range of sizes: 1/4 oz up to 3 oz covers most kid trips
Skip this
Skip lead if a non-lead version is on the shelf — better for birds, fish, and hands.
Prices are typical US ranges and change over time. Ask a grown-up and your local tackle shop before buying — shop staff will help you match gear to your home water for free.
🎓 How to Use It
- 1Slide an egg sinker on the main line, then tie on a swivel so it stops above the leader.
- 2Cast, let it settle, then reel up the slack until the line is straight.
- 3If your bait is dragging away, add weight. If you cannot feel bites, take some off.
Care & storage
Keep them in a separate hard box so they do not crush your other tackle.
🛟 Safety Tips
- Never put a sinker in your mouth and always wash hands after handling lead.
- Heavy sinkers swing hard — keep people clear when you cast.
🧑✈️Captain Tip
Learn one piece of gear per trip. By the end of the summer you will know your whole kit better than most adults.