Do I need swivels?

[finlander]

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.

[Musk Rat]

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

[HerbB]

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.