Are you planning a salmon fishing trip and wondering what size swivel to use?
Look no further!
Swivels play a crucial role in fishing, especially when it comes to salmon. But with so many sizes and types available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about swivel sizes for salmon fishing, including how to choose the right size for your needs and why it matters.
So grab your fishing gear and let’s dive in!
What Size Swivel For Salmon Fishing?
When it comes to salmon fishing, choosing the right size swivel is essential. Swivels are used to prevent line twist and tangles, which can be a common problem when fishing for salmon.
Swivel sizes are classified using an aught scale, similar to fishing hooks. The smallest size starts at 12 and gradually increases as the numbers go down to size 1. After reaching size 1, swivel sizes switch to 1/0 and go up to size 12/0, which is the largest swivel size.
In general, it’s best to choose the smallest swivel size that you can get away with, as this won’t spook the fish as much as an oversized swivel. For example, when fishing for trout, a size 12 swivel is most often the best choice. However, when fishing for bigger fish with heavy lines, it’s necessary to increase the size of your swivel since this also increases the amount of weight that the swivel can bear without breaking.
When it comes to salmon fishing, many anglers underestimate the importance of swivels. Whether you are mooching, jigging or downrigger fishing, your swivels play an important role. Especially when you are trolling for salmon using a flasher.
A flasher’s main job is to create sound. The rotation of the flasher in the water sends out powerful vibrations that attract salmon. In order to rotate freely, most flashers have a ball bearing swivel on the head. If a flasher doesn’t have a ball bearing swivel on the head, your flasher will continue to rotate but will start to put twist in your line until eventually your line will break, usually about the time you get a good hard strike.
The rule of thumb is that stuff that doesn’t spin when going through the water doesn’t need to be paired with a snap swivel. However, when fishing with stuff that does spin or rotate as it’s retrieved or trolled—most spoons, in-line spinners, dodgers and flashers—a snap swivel is recommended.
When choosing the right size swivel for salmon fishing, you generally want to use a swivel with a maximum strength that is a little bit heavier than your leader line. You may also go another size larger than the strength of your leader line. A smaller swivel is more stealthy, but when you’re fishing for big game like salmon, having a strong swivel is even more important.
Understanding The Importance Of Swivels In Salmon Fishing
Swivels are a crucial component in salmon fishing, as they help prevent line twist and tangles. When fishing for salmon, it’s important to use a swivel that is strong enough to handle the weight of the fish, while also being small enough to not spook the fish.
When trolling for salmon using a flasher, a ball bearing swivel on the head of the flasher is essential. This allows the flasher to rotate freely without putting twist in your line. Without a ball bearing swivel on the head, your line will eventually break, usually at the moment you get a good hard strike.
It’s also important to consider the type of lure or bait you’re using when choosing a swivel size. If you’re using a lure that rotates or spins during retrieval, such as spoons or dodgers, it’s recommended to pair it with a snap swivel. This will prevent line twist and make it easier to switch out lures quickly.
In general, when choosing the right size swivel for salmon fishing, you want to use a swivel with a maximum strength that is slightly heavier than your leader line. This ensures that it can handle the weight of the fish without breaking. A smaller swivel is more stealthy and less likely to spook the fish, but when targeting bigger game like salmon, having a strong swivel is crucial.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Swivel Sizes For Salmon Fishing
There are several factors to consider when choosing swivel sizes for salmon fishing. Firstly, you need to consider the weight of the fish you are targeting. Salmon are known for their size and strength, so it’s important to choose a swivel that can handle their weight.
Secondly, you need to consider the strength of your leader line. As mentioned earlier, it’s best to use a swivel with a maximum strength that is a little bit heavier than your leader line. This will ensure that your swivel can handle the weight of the fish without breaking.
Thirdly, you need to consider the type of fishing you will be doing. For example, if you are trolling with a flasher, you will need a swivel that can rotate freely without causing line twist. In this case, a ball bearing swivel is recommended.
Lastly, you need to consider the size of your bait or lure. If you are using a larger bait or lure, you may need a larger swivel to ensure that it can handle the weight and movement of the bait or lure.
Different Types Of Swivels For Salmon Fishing
There are two main types of swivels that are commonly used for salmon fishing: barrel swivels and ball bearing swivels.
Barrel swivels were the first type of swivel to appear on the market. They are made up of two circles made from wire which forms the eyes and then goes into the central section of the swivel. Barrel swivels are large, robust and bulky in design. They have been superseded by both rolling and crane swivels which offer greater strength despite being significantly smaller.
Rolling swivels have a cylindrical central section. They are both stronger and smaller than a barrel swivel, although they are more expensive to manufacture. The design of rolling swivels means that they perform better than barrel swivels when under load, with the swivels still able to spin and reduce line twist when placed under considerable pressure.
Ball bearing swivels have ball bearings inside to minimize friction and deficiencies found in barrel swivels. Ball bearing swivels allow the swivel to twist freely when it is under pressure. Ball bearing swivels are also much more expensive due to the added mechanisms.
When it comes to salmon fishing, ball bearing swivels are highly recommended for use with flashers. Flashers create sound by rotating in the water and sending out powerful vibrations that attract salmon. If a flasher doesn’t have a ball bearing swivel on the head, your line will start to twist until eventually it breaks, usually about the time you get a good hard strike.
How To Choose The Right Swivel Size For Your Fishing Needs
Choosing the right swivel size for your salmon fishing needs is crucial to your success. As mentioned earlier, it’s best to choose the smallest swivel size that can handle the weight of your leader line. However, when salmon fishing, you may want to use a swivel that’s a little bit larger than your leader line’s strength.
For example, if you are using a 20-pound test leader line, you may want to use a size 4 or 5 swivel. If you are using a 30-pound test leader line, a size 5 or 6 swivel would be appropriate. If you are using an 80-pound test leader line, you may want to use a size 8 or even a size 10 swivel.
It’s important to keep in mind that the larger the swivel, the stronger and heavier it is. This can have an impact on its performance, especially when trolling or casting for salmon. A larger swivel can create more drag in the water, which can affect the movement of your lure or bait.
When choosing a swivel for salmon fishing, it’s also important to consider the type of fishing you’ll be doing. If you’re trolling with flashers, you’ll want to use a ball bearing swivel on the head of your flasher to prevent line twist. If you’re using spinning lures or baits, a snap swivel is recommended.
Tips For Properly Using Swivels While Salmon Fishing
Here are some tips for properly using swivels while salmon fishing:
1. Choose the right size: As mentioned earlier, choosing the right size swivel is important. Use a swivel that is a little heavier than your leader line or go one size larger than the strength of your leader line.
2. Use ball bearing swivels: When using a flasher, make sure to use a ball bearing swivel on the head of the flasher. This will allow it to rotate freely and prevent line twist.
3. Avoid using too many swivels: Using too many swivels can create weak points in your line and increase the risk of breakage. Stick to using one or two swivels at most.
4. Check for damage: Before each fishing trip, inspect your swivels for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If you notice any damage, replace them immediately to prevent any potential issues while fishing.
5. Use the smallest swivel possible: As mentioned earlier, using the smallest swivel possible is best for avoiding spooking the fish. However, make sure it is still strong enough to handle the weight of the fish you are targeting.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you are using swivels properly while salmon fishing and increase your chances of a successful catch.
Conclusion: Why Choosing The Right Swivel Size Is Crucial For Successful Salmon Fishing
Choosing the right size swivel is crucial for successful salmon fishing because it can prevent line twist and tangles that can lead to lost fish. When trolling for salmon using a flasher, it’s important to use a ball bearing swivel on the head of the flasher to prevent line twist. A cheap barrel swivel can quickly lose its ability to rotate, leading to damage to your line and ultimately break-offs.
Additionally, when choosing the right size swivel for salmon fishing, it’s important to consider the strength of your leader line. You want to use a swivel with a maximum strength that is slightly heavier than your leader line or even one size larger. This will ensure that your swivel can bear the weight of a big fish without breaking.
While it may be tempting to use a larger swivel for added strength, it’s best to choose the smallest swivel size that you can get away with. This is because an oversized swivel can spook fish and decrease your chances of getting a bite.