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Sinker Size for Surfcasting

Posted: Tue Apr 05, 2011 5:26 pm
by Grawpy
What should be the maximum sinker size/weight for optimum casting.
For e.g. I have a rod capable of upto 35lb and line at 25lb, for this what should be my heaviest sinker without using a shock leader for a long cast? Is there any formula to calculate the sinker size?
Also a Tear drop shaped sinker is better or a cylindrical shaped sinker is optimum for casting with lesser wind resistance?
Finally, can I use the above sinkers (not a sliding sinker) which is sliding on the main line with the main line looped in the eye of the sinker? Will it reduce the casting distance due the sinker not being in line with the main line and hanging side ways on it?

Lots of questions in an inquisitive mind :raincloud:
Pros & Bros it'll be very helpful if you please reply... :)

Re: Sinker Size for Surfcasting

Posted: Tue Apr 05, 2011 9:53 pm
by Peace
There's no formula to derive the the casting weight as it depends on the nature and build acrosss different types of rod blanks. To be safe, stick to the casting weight stated on the rod itself. (It should be written there) Shock leader may be required if you use light lines, I would say 25lbs is just sufficient to go without one if you're those who cast very hard.

Optimum casting distance does not solely depend on the casting weight, it takes a good balance of rod length/action suited for your own physique as well. Casting techniques play an important role as well. Shapes of sinker should be determined by what's important to you, ie. distance (aerodynamic) or grip on the seabed. Those cyclindrical or bullet shape types are great for casting while those pear shapes on will work better griping onto soft muddy seabed.

As for sliding the sinkers, we need to see how the overall setup/rig is like. But if the sinker is not at the very end/tip of the terminal rig, it'll generally reduce casting distance by quite a bit.

Re: Sinker Size for Surfcasting

Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 10:27 am
by Grawpy
Thanks Peace... Good Information there :D
Peace wrote:To be safe, stick to the casting weight stated on the rod itself. (It should be written there)
But the problem is that my rod does not state the casting weight :confused:

Re: Sinker Size for Surfcasting

Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 9:22 pm
by Peace
Hmm, if that is the case it's going to take some trial and error to find out. It's stated as a heavy action rod so it probably can take a 3-4oz sinker comfortably.

Re: Sinker Size for Surfcasting

Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 9:53 pm
by Grawpy
Ok.... I'll try and error (hope that no error will happen :clover: ) with some sinker.
I have some sinkers having C-2 or 2 or sometimes 28 gms written on them. Now, i know that 28 gm = 1 oz, but what is that C-2? Is it 2 oz or size 2 sinker? 0.o

Re: Sinker Size for Surfcasting

Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2011 12:05 am
by Peace
I have a few of these C-X sinkers as well, they look and feel like ounces to me.