Fishing terminal tackle can be incredibly specific and it mostly depends on two variables: your fishing tactics and the species you target. This will further determine, or simply narrow down your choices. You can find tackles made from lead, wood, plastic, stainless steel, tungsten, tin, foam, etc. The material and the size of the terminal tackle depends on the rig you will use.
Hooks
Even the scantest of rigs can’t go without a fishing hook. They are the most basic fishing terminal tackle you will buy. They keep the bait attached to the line, and once the fish bites, they keep the fish on the line. Keep in mind the type of fishing you plan on doing when buying fishing hooks. If you fish in blue waters, go for hooks with good saltwater resistance. And don’t forget the underwater flora too. Lightly curled hooks, in general, snag less on weeds. You want to have a hook that will be impossible for fish to get rid of, but at the same time, its design should make it less prone to getting entangled in rocks. Double-check if it comes with or without baits. You need this info to plan the configuration for the rest of the fishing gear. Hooks are part of every rig and they are used to catch almost all species.
Floats and Indicators
Equally essential, bobbers and indicators show the location and depth of the bait. Experienced anglers can fish without them, but if you are new in this hobby, then it is a recommended piece of gear. When your fish decides to bite, the indicator will show it.
Swivels
When left unchecked, the baits can twist the line in some tricky ways. Use snaps and swivels to prevent this from happening. They not only facilitate the movement of baits but they also make changing them faster and easier Rigs can be made from various materials, but brass, plastic and steel are the most common ones. They are used to create rigs for catching bigger fish, especially if you include more than one three-way swivels.
Sinkers and Weights
Add weights to your rig to make sure it stays in deep water. Lead sinkers are the most common weights on a rig, however, they can also be made from tungsten and tin. There are different ways to add the weights to the rig. You can tie them, or pinch and clip them to the line. Sinkers are used in trolling, fly fishing, floating and bottom fishing (with a bait).
Split Rings
These are the part of the rig that allows you to change segments. Split rings can also affect the motion of lures. Since they are the connecting part in your rig, split rings should be made from a durable material that can withstand being immersed in water for longer periods of time. This is why stainless steel split rings are the most common choice today. They are an essential part of your fishing arsenal if you go for panfish, muskie, pike or walleye.
Configure Your Terminal Fishing Tackle
It is one thing to be familiar with each element that goes into a fishing rig, but making it on your own is a totally different thing. If you are new to the fishing world, assemble your rigs following detailed instructions.
Using classic rigs that are designed for specific species is the best way to dip your toes in fishing. Do your research and learn which kinds of fish can be found in different waters. Having a clear idea of the type of fish you are after can greatly improve your fishing experience. For staters, follow the advice of other anglers who have had success with the fish that you’re trying to catch.
