The running sinker rig, also known as the ball sinker rig, is an extremely popular and easy to create rig. There are a few variations depending on personal preference, conditions and/or location. This is a simple and versatile setup for all levels of fishing.
The basic setup includes: Sinker on the mainline which goes to a swivel to leader and then to hook.
When to use this rig:
Ideal for calm or slow-moving water.
- In freshwater near rocky areas, wood debris and open areas.
- In saltwater this rig is ideal for estuary and mangrove fishing, sand flats, beaches, channels, rocky and reef areas.
Best species to target with this rig:
All bottom dwelling fish and some opportunistic pelagic’s
- Popular freshwater fish include: Trout, Redfin, Perch, Eel, Catfish and Murray Cod
- Popular saltwater fish include: Snapper, Bream, Flathead, Flounder, Whiting, Trevally, Jacks, Jewfish and more.
Variations of the Running Sinker Rig
Running Sinker Rig – to Swivel
Sinker on the mainline to swivel to leader to hook.
Running Sinker Rig – to Hook
Sinker on the mainline that runs all the way to the hook (no swivel or leader).
Running Sinker Rig – Between Swivel and Hook
Mainline to swivel with sinker running on the leader between the swivel and hook.
*Other slight variations of the above would include the use of a bead in front of the sinker or using Ezi rigs for ease of changing the weight of your sinker.
See FAQs for more tips & details on this rig.
Tackle needed to create a Running Swivel Rig:
Leader
Line strength should be determined based on targeted species. Leader length should be between 60 cm (24 in) to 100 cm (40 in).
3 kg (6 lb) line for Whiting, Bream, Mullet or other lighter fish.
6 kg (12 lb) line for Flathead, Trevally, Jacks, midsized Snapper and other larger fish.
8 kg+ (16 lb+) line for larger reef fish, Jewfish, large Snapper, Salmon, etc.
Swivel
(single and 3 way)
Size should be based on leader strength/size. Swivel break strains differ by brand. Be sure the weight matches or is slightly above leader weight.
Size 10 – 14 for lighter line, such as 3kg or less
Size 8 for thicker leader, 6 kg
Size 6 or less for heavy line, 8 kg+
Hooks
Type & size is determined by species.
Bait holder sizes 2, 1, 1/0 and 2/0 are good for inshore fish under 3 kg in weight
Long shanked sizes 1/0 and 2/0 are good for Flathead and 4/0 for Whiting
Kirby hooks size 6/0, 7/0 and 8/0 are ideal for larger species such as Jewfish, mature Snapper, Kingfish and larger reef species.
8 kg+ (16 lb+) line for larger reef fish, Jewfish, large Snapper, Salmon, etcType and size is determined by species.
Sinker
The general rule of thumb is lighter weight for lighter tackle.
Ball/bean sinkers sizes 1,2,3 and 4 are suited for lines/leader under 6kg and ideal for most estuary, sand flats, channels and drop off areas. Sizes 5+ are better for heavier lines of 8 kg+ for reefs, deeper waters or areas of stronger currents.
FAQS
Which variation of the running sinker is the best?
This comes down to preference and location. Here are some benefits of each type.
Sinker to hook is ideal for fishing areas with snags. It is also good for fishing areas where a lighter sinker can be used, such as boats, docks and piers. This rig is perfect for keeping your bait on the ocean floor.
The other versions are ideal for areas of faster moving waters, where heavy sinkers are needed to hold their position. Having a leader allows the fish to run with the bait which can help with more hook ups. A leader also helps your bait move around with the current on or near the bottom, covering more ground to entice fish.
Which variation has the best casting distance?
Either sinker direct to hook or sinker on the leader between the swivel and the hook. When the sinker is on the mainline above the swivel, casting distance can be slightly reduced, as the leader and bait provide wind drag going through the air.
Which variation is best for reef fishing?
Sinker to hook is ideal for reef fishing as it can get your bait down to the reef quicker and keep it on the reef. It is also easier to de-snag as you can bounce the sinker up and down directly on the hook to jar it lose.
This is the same for freshwater fishing when targeting the likes of Murray Cod hidden in wooden debris.
The sinker to hook is about power versus finesse as there is no leader to give the fish room to hide in structure after taking the bait.
Other Fishing Rigs
Bait Jig Rig
Paternoster Sinker Rig
Unweighted Rig
