Best Swivel For Braided Line

Matador51

Cadet
Joined
Mar 5, 2005
Messages
18
I have noticed I'm using a lot more ball bearing swivels than normal.<br /><br />I would classify myself as a walleye fisherman. I usually use 8-10 lb Fireline or equivalent with a 3-4 ft section of 8 lb Vanish leader. I tie the Vanish to the Fireline using two uni-knots and I do not have a problem. I use the smallest ball bearing swivel I can purchase and this is where the problem occurs.<br /><br />I have also noticed this fishing trout with larger swivels. They open up or get sprung to the point where it's hard to get them fastened again.<br /><br />Recommendations appreciated, thanks.
 

walleyehed

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Jun 29, 2003
Messages
6,767
Re: Best Swivel For Braided Line

Are you saying the split-rings are the part giving trouble???
 

Matador51

Cadet
Joined
Mar 5, 2005
Messages
18
Re: Best Swivel For Braided Line

My problem occurs at the snap itself. I often notice the snap is open.<br /><br />In addition, when I try to change baits it is hard to close the snap again which tells me there has been a lot of stress on it and it is deformed.<br /><br />My signal to change the snap swivel occurs when it won't stay closed with a slight tug.
 

walleyehed

Admiral
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Jun 29, 2003
Messages
6,767
Re: Best Swivel For Braided Line

Go to cross-lock snap swivels...they can't move aft to pull out..
 

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: Best Swivel For Braided Line

Cross-lock or coast-lock Sampo stainless ball bearing snap swivels work for me.<br /><br />Sometimes closing the snap is a chore, but they never open by accident.<br /><br />I lost a couple of very heavy fish (salt water) when those RATZAKRATZA safety-pin type snaps opened. Haven't used one since.
 

Tom2697

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 30, 2004
Messages
49
Re: Best Swivel For Braided Line

Are you using the snap-swivel to connect the leader to the hook/lure? If so, I've had fish open the snap on the strike. Coast-lock swivels are definitely more secure but they will still open. I always connect my leader to the hook/lure and then use a swivel to connect my main line to the leader to prevent twist. I use more leader but I usually need to replace my leaders after no more than 2 fish. Granted, I fish for some REALLY toothy critters.<br /><br />On another note, if you are already spending more money for the ball-bearing swivels, don't waste your money by buying the safety pin style snaps. Spend the extra pennies and get the cross-lock or coast-lock style as JB suggested.
 

gonfishn

Commander
Joined
May 16, 2002
Messages
2,390
Re: Best Swivel For Braided Line

I'm with you JB..They cost a little more but they are more reliable for heavier fins..if it wasn't for busted swivels or frayed lines there would be no excuse on how the bigun got away..
 

KaGee

Admiral
Joined
Aug 14, 2004
Messages
7,069
Re: Best Swivel For Braided Line

Originally posted by gonfishn:<br /> ..if it wasn't for busted swivels or frayed lines there would be no excuse on how the bigun got away..
Or to make another trip to Cabella's to buy more tackle!
 
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