Tackle

Bug sinkers are ideal for estuary and lake fishing where a light, low profile lead is preferred. They are often used in a running sinker rig, where the main line is threaded through the sinker and left unattached, so it can move more freely, usually positioned either running directly to the hook, or restricted to running along the main line above a swivel connection. Unlike small ball sinkers, the bug sinker's flat sides make it less prone to rolling along the bottom in current. Use a bug sinker when water flow is a little too fast for split shot, but not so fast as to require something heavy.

The Pyramid Sinker is a popular choice for surf and ocean fishing. This design will bury itself in a soft sandy bottom for a firm hold in strong currents.  

Rocket Sinkers sink fast and are ideal for bottom fishing deep water with paternoster (dropper) rigs. The round, wide, bulbous base thins towards the top where a brass swivel is fitted as an attachment point. You can attach, remove or change your sinker easily using a loop knot tied at the end of your line; simply thread the loop through the eye of the swivel, then push the sinker through the loop and tighten the line, so the loop wraps around the swivel eye. Reverse that process for quick sinker removal. Some anglers use rocket sinkers running along the main line between hook and swivel, or two swivels or rings.

Split shot sinkers are very useful when fishing light in streams or estuaries. Many anglers also use them when float fishing to balance their floats and hold the bait down where the fish are. Split shot sinkers have a 'split' in one side that you fit your line into; and then you squeeze the sinker with pliers, closing the split around your line to fix the sinker in that position. The sizes are small enough that you might attach or remove several split shot sinkers to achieve and/or maintain the perfect weight as conditions change.

Star sinkers are ideal for fishing sandy sea floors, especially surf beaches. These sinkers are designed to bury themselves as the water moves them around, so your bait holds in position for longer. They're a great option when you need to anchor your bait in a favourite beach gutter.

Surf sinkers are popular with beach anglers using running sinker rigs. The squat convex disc shape is excellent for casting distance, while offering good resistance to rolling in strong surges or wash. They're ideal when you need extra holding power to keep your bait in the best position for longer.