Fishing sinker is a special type of tackle used to add weight to a line 
or lure. Anglers attach a sinker to draw bait down to depths where fish 
tend to congregate. Because the exact depth can vary by species, 
location and conditions, fishing enthusiasts often use a variety of 
sinkers to add different amounts of weight. The fishing sinkers were 
traditionally made of lead. However, lead is harmful to an enormous 
variety of wildlife, and lead fishing sinkers and other lead tackle 
contribute significantly to the risk.
The bell fishing sinker features a bell-shaped design 
with a swiveling hook fastened to the top. These fishing sinkers cast 
well in the wind, making them a favorite for shore anglers. The rounded 
profile of the fishing sinkers also reduces its chance of snagging. For 
boat anglers, bell fishing sinkers are often used on a three-way rig. 
This rig is designed to get baits deep without needing any extra 
equipment, like downriggers. The rig consists of a three-way swivel with
 one eye for the main line. The next loop holds a drop line with a bell 
sinker at its end. Finally, the last loop holds a leader and a lure or a
 live bait rig. The rig is effective when bounced along the bottom or 
lowered to a desired depth and trolled in open water.
The split shot is a small ball of lead with a slit cut into one side. To
 use this type of sinker, simply wrap the slit in the ball around your 
line and clamp down on the metal to secure it to the line. Some split 
shots feature small handles on the opposite side of the opening, 
allowing them to be removed and reused. A clam shot is a variation of a 
split shot. It maintains a groove for holding line and is an oval shape,
 making it more snag resistant. Despite their popularity, split shots 
pose some serious health and environmental risks, according to the U.S.
Geological Survey. Loons and other wildlife often swallow abandoned 
split shots, and then suffer illness or death due to the lead content. 
When large numbers of these sinkers are abandoned, they may increase the
 lead content in a body of water, which may eventually affect the 
drinking water for area residents.
















































