I will be doing alot of trolling in Canada in two weeks. Not much casting. Mainly crankbaits. I have heard of 'skis doing this rolling manuvere(sp.) Would this compromise the integrity of a leader if I don't use swivels?? I have 49 strand s.s. wire rated way up there, and this I will use for trolling. I do want to make some shorter, s.s. dowrigger wire leaders for casting. This is a thinner wire, and don't want this to fail at boatside. Would swivels save the day? Thanks.

Swivels are better to tie to. The wire may cut your main line for that reason i would use a swivel.

It would be a good idea to use a quality swivel such as a 150 lb stainless steel, solid ring, ball bearing swivel. There are several good ones out there such as the SPRO and Sampos. I would use a fairly long leader, at least 18 inches, with at least 100 lb wire or seven-strand. The rocks up there are tough on the line.

The last thing one wants to scrimp on is the leaders. Been there. Done that. Not a good way to land a big fish. Big fish will tear cheap terminal tackle apart.

Good luck.

For casting jerks and cranks, you do not need a swivel. A solid ring on that end would be my preference. For trolling, your baits may roll out with speed or weeds and you will definitely want the swivel.