Fishing Terminal Tackle

Fishing Terminal Tackle

After you've gathered your fishing equipment and supplies, such as terminal tackle, it's time to go fishing. Supplies such as fishing hooks, snaps and sinkers qualify as terminal tackle, while lures and live fishing bait don't. Combine individual terminal tackle items to form a fishing rig, such as bobber and sliding sinker rigs. To catch the big fish, fill your tackle box full of these sporting goods essentials. Then, you'll have everything you need to set up your fishing line based on the type of fish you plan to catch.

What types of hooks should I purchase?

Keep a variety of hooks in different sizes so you aren't limited to catching a certain species of fish. Most anglers start out with a single hook such as a bait hook. The hooks, produced mainly from stainless steel, are chemically sharpened so they don't dull. Choose a hook designed to catch a preferred fish, such as snapper, trout or cod. Additionally, use a treble hook when you'd rather use artificial lures. This type has three barbs for the fish to grab so there's a greater chance you'll land a catch. You can experiment using other hooks, such as double hooks and soft plastic worm hooks, depending on whether you fish in fresh or saltwater.

What's the purpose of using a swivel?

The swivel attaches to the fishing line so you can add the lure to the rig. It is designed to tie the hook to one end and the line to the other. The swivel also keeps the line from tangling. Moreover, you can purchase this terminal tackle in different sizes and shapes. A ball-bearing swivel rotates so the line untwists when you're reeling in a heavy fish. On the other hand, a three-way swivel allows you to add an additional lure. Use a combination snap swivel to simplify changing lures.

How does a sinker help catch fish?

A sinker helps the lure float to the bottom quicker to where the fish prefer hanging out. Generally, you can also cast further with a sinker attached. Anglers use a bullet sinker when catching bass or claw sinkers when fishing in water with strong currents.