3 Best Sinkers for Surf Fishing

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Hey there my fellow beach fishers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best sinkers for surf fishing. As you may know, surf fishing is a unique way of angling where specialized gear and tackle can be needed to deal with the strong pull of the waves and current.

And one of these options that is often different to general fishing is to do with the weight you add to the end of your surf rig – i.e. the humble sinker for it is these little beads of lead that can be the difference between catching fish and not. So for those of you looking for some good sinker options for surf fishing, let’s check out three options I have come up with below.

My three recommended sinkers for surf fishing

I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:

 Sinker for Beach FishingPriceGet it
best sinkers for surf fishing - Fishfun 5pcs Tungsten Fishing WeightsFishfun Tungsten Fishing Weights$CURRENT PRICE
best sinkers for surf fishing - Dr Fish 5 Pack Fishing No-Roll SinkerDr.Fish No-Roll Sinker$$CURRENT PRICE
best sinkers for surf fishing - Breakaway Super Sinker 6ozBreakaway Super Sinker$$CURRENT PRICE

What are sinkers for surf fishing?

One of the most essential components of any surf fishing rig is the sinker. When you are fishing from the beach and casting out into the surf, the waves will be pulling very hard on whatever bait you are using. Hence, you may need to use a sinker that will keep your bait where you want it to stay.

This means that your sinker will need to be:

  1. Heavy enough without causing problems for your rod and reel.
  2. Built to withstand current and the pull of the waves – e.g. either flat or with little spikes.

For these reasons, a traditional ball sinker used for general fishing my not suit due to the fact that they can roll around and move way from where the fish are.

What should you be looking for?

Below are some factors to consider as you look for a good sinker for surf fishing.

  1. Type of sinker
  2. Construction material
  3. Sinker weight
  4. Shape

Type of sinker

Sinkers for surf fishing come in two types: static or mobile.

  1. Static sinker: These dig into the bottom and keep the bait in place. Because they are immobile, static sinkers are ideal for presenting dead or cut bait as it appears more natural to predators. Generally, there are four kinds of static sinkers – tongue, pyramid, storm, and sputnik.
  2. Mobile sinker: This sinker is intended to move along the ground or bottom with the current – they do however tend to be flatter or linger so they are not as susceptible to the current. Mobile sinkers are very effective at naturally presenting your bait. They come in three kinds: dropper sinkers, egg weight, and coin weight.

Construction material

Because it is heavy and inexpensive, lead is the most commonly used material for saltwater fishing sinkers. People may be concerned about the safety of a lead sinker for surf fishing, however in general, they are fairly safe as long as you don’t put them in your mouth.

Other metal sinkers are available such as bismuth and tungsten however they tend to be more expensive.

Sinker weight

This factor is crucial since this determines how stable your bait will be once you cast it. A light line rig weighing fractions of an ounce are good for still conditions however the heavier you go, the more stable it may be – as well as the further it may cast.

Many experienced anglers recommend a 2-4 ounce pyramid or sputnik sinker in normal water conditions. On the other hand, a heavier sinker, such as 6 ounces, may be required if the current is too strong.

best sinkers for surf fishing - sinker with spikes

Shape

Surf fishing weights are designed differently to cater to your needs. For example, when you want to take your bait all the way to the bottom, an egg-shaped sinker is preferred for surf fishing. It has a round design with a hole in the center for easy attachment to your fishing line – commonly used for Carolina rigs etc.

A frog tongue sinker is a specialized shape for surf fishing as they can stay in the current as they sink to the bottom. With enough tension, they can burrow in the sand as well.

Sinkers with a pyramid shape can dig deep into the sandy bottom. However, if the sinker escapes the sand, the wave pressure can cause it to roll over.  These are good for paternoster rigs etc.

What do I use?

For surf fishing here where I live, I like to use a flat, round sinker. These are shaped almost like a flying saucer and designed to sit on the bottom and resist the current. Weight classes range from 2 to 6 oz depending on the conditions.

I also use a star sinker on a paternoster rig if there are too many stingrays about.

My three recommendations broken down

So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:

1. Fishfun Tungsten Fishing Weights

This first sinker option is very durable and perfect for surf fishing in many conditions. They contain a higher density in build than lead meaning they weight more for a smaller size for greater accuracy as well. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Fishfun
  • Type: Static
  • Construction material: Tungsten
  • Pieces: Five
  • Dimensions: ‎3.15 x 2.36 x 0.26 inches
  • Weight: 0.62 ounces

Other inclusions:

  • Easier line threading
  • Absence of fraying lines die to smooth finish
  • Fewer snags on weeds

Why have I chosen it?

The tungsten build is an excellent alternative to lead as it sinks faster and has high sensitivity. Use this option for your Carolina or Texas rigs.


2. Dr.Fish No-Roll Sinker

My second recommended sinker reaches the bottom fast thanks to its incredible design with a shape that helps in keeping your bait in place. It also comes with a polished surface to protect your fishing line when in use. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Dr. Fish
  • Type: Static
  • Construction material: Lead
  • Pieces: Five
  • Dimensions: ‎‎4.84 x 3.35 x 0.63 inches
  • Weight: 7 ounces

Other inclusions:

  • Flat triangle design
  • Polished surface

Why have I chosen this?

With its flat triangle design, this sinker will not be easily moved by the waves ensuring that your rig stays precisely where you want it. This is a great option for surf fishers who face rough tides and turbulent currents.


3. Breakaway Super Sinker

My last recommended sinker is a bestseller due to its effectiveness in keeping your bait in its proper place. It was carefully designed to withstand strong currents with spikes that will dig onto the sand. See its specifications below:

  • Brand: Breakaway Tackle
  • Type: Static
  • Construction material: Lead
  • Pieces: Two
  • Dimensions: ‎‎5.04 x 2.87 x 1.81 inches
  • Weight: 6.08 ounces

Other inclusions:

  • Stainless steel rotating wires
  • Aerodynamic design

Why have I chosen this?

These sinkers look like sputniks and are designed to reduce sinker weight without sacrificing hold or staying power when fishing on sand or other soft bottoms. The sinkers have four self-locking wire arms hat when deployed downward, will provide a strong hold against currents.

The sinkers’ unique aerodynamic shape increases surf casting distance as well.

Conclusion

There you have it, my three best sinkers for surf fishing. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul

best sinkers for surf fishing - pinterest

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Hi, I'm Paul

I am a passionate fishing, camping and four wheeled driving hobbyist who researches, tests and educates around issues and equipment relevant to them.

I am by no means a professional however my passion is to assist you in making informed decisions about buying and using awesome gear that will give you the best chance of success at whatever you are doing for the best price.

Please get in touch if you have any questions.

Paul