How to Choose the Best Fishing Swivels: Types and Functions

Fishing swivels are essential tools in every angler's gearbox. They help reduce line kinks and keep the line firmly connected to the tackle. Choosing the right spinner for your needs depends on factors like your fishing style, target fish, and the environment.

1. Basic Functions of Fishing Spinners

A fishing spinner connects fishing line to other tackle (such as hooks and bait) while keeping the line flexible in the water and reducing tangles and knots. It performs the following basic functions:
a. Anti-Tangle
The most important function of a fishing spinner is to prevent the line from twisting or tangling in the water due to the movement of the bait or other factors. Especially when using multiple tackle, double hooks, or complex baits, a spinner effectively prevents tangles and keeps the line flowing smoothly.
b. Connecting Lines and Tackle
Spinners are typically used to connect the main fishing line to hooks, bait, sinkers, and other accessories. Their design allows for flexible movement in the water and enables quick and secure connection to various tackle.
c. Reducing Underwater Drag
The smooth surface of a fishing spinner reduces the resistance of the water to the tackle, which is especially important for fast-moving bait. The spinner's flexibility allows the bait to move more naturally in the water, enhancing its appeal and improving the chances of successful fishing.

2. Types of Fishing Spinners

Fishing spinners can be categorized into several types based on their functionality and design. Each spinner has its own unique advantages, and the choice should be based on your specific fishing needs.
a. Standard Swivels
This is the most common type of fishing spinner, typically consisting of a round or oval metal ring without any complex internal mechanisms. It is simple yet effective, suitable for most fishing situations.
Suitable for: Suitable for a variety of fishing methods, especially freshwater fishing and general saltwater fishing.
Advantages: Simple construction, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
This spinner is well suited to general fishing needs, such as fishing for small to medium-sized fish. It prevents line tangles and provides some flexibility in connection.
b. Ball Bearing Swivels
Ball bearing spinners are more efficient than standard spinners. They are equipped with a small ball bearing inside, which allows for smoother rotation and reduces friction. Due to their smooth rotation, ball bearing spinners are particularly effective in high-load fishing. Suitable for deep-sea fishing, power fishing, and catching large game.
Advantages: Smoother rotation, suitable for higher tension, reduced friction, and increased line life.
Due to its smoothness, this type of spinner is particularly valuable for fishing that requires long periods of steady-state fishing and high tension.
c. Snap Swivels
Snap swivels feature a snap hook that allows for quick connection and disconnection of the line from other tackle, such as hooks or lures. They are particularly suitable for fishing that requires quick accessory changes.
Suitable for fishing that frequently requires changing tackle, bait, or fishing techniques.
Advantages: Easy installation and replacement saves time, especially when frequently changing bait or tackle.
Not only is this spinner convenient, it also reduces the risk of line tangles during accessory changes.
d. Interlock Snap Swivels
These swivels not only offer a rotating function but also feature a stronger closure system, ensuring they remain in place even under high pressure. This design provides a more secure connection, making it particularly suitable for fishing requiring strong tension.

Suitable for: Big fish fishing, heavy fishing, and environments requiring high tension.

Advantages: A secure connection, suitable for high-intensity fishing, and preventing tackle from loosening.

Joint swivels are commonly used for saltwater fishing or large freshwater fishing, especially when high tension is required.

e. Duplex Swivels

Duplex swivels feature two swivels that allow simultaneous connection of multiple lines or multiple tackle. This type of swivel is ideal for fishing with multiple tackle or baits.

Suitable for: Multiple lines, double hooks, or situations requiring multiple baits.

Advantages: Versatile, particularly suitable for complex tackle and multiple fishing methods.

This type of swivel is particularly useful for fishing multiple spots or multiple bait setups.

3. Fishing Spinner Material Selection

The material of a fishing spinner directly affects its durability and corrosion resistance. Choosing the right material can be tailored to your fishing environment. a. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is the most common material for fishing spinners. It's not only strong and durable, but also highly corrosion-resistant. It's particularly well-suited for saltwater fishing, where it resists the salt in the seawater, extending its lifespan.
Pros: Highly corrosion-resistant and strong, it's suitable for saltwater fishing.
Cons: Relatively heavy, making it unsuitable for finesse fishing.
b. Copper Alloy
Copper alloy spinners are lighter than stainless steel and also offer good corrosion resistance, making them suitable for freshwater or light tackle.
Pros: Lightweight, suitable for freshwater fishing, and cost-effective.
Cons: While corrosion-resistant, they're not as durable as stainless steel in saltwater.
c. Aluminum Alloy
Aluminum alloy spinners are the lightest and are ideal for fishing that requires less tackle. While not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel and copper alloy, they're still suitable for milder fishing environments.
Pros: Lightweight, suitable for finesse fishing.
Cons: Less corrosion-resistant, generally only suitable for freshwater fishing.

4. Other Considerations When Choosing a Fishing Spinner

a. Size and Load Capacity
The size and load capacity of a fishing spinner should be tailored to the size of the line being used and the target fish. Smaller spinners are suitable for thin lines and small fish, while larger spinners are suitable for larger fish with greater strain.
Selection Tip: Ensure the spinner's load capacity meets the strain requirements of the species you are fishing. Failure to do so may cause the spinner to break or fall off.
b. Spinner Smoothness
A smooth spinner reduces line friction and prolongs its life. Smoothness is particularly important for ball bearing spinners used in high-tension fishing. A smoother spinner also effectively reduces line tangles caused by poor spinning.
c. Corrosion Resistance
For saltwater fishing, corrosion resistance is crucial. Salt in seawater can quickly corrode ordinary metals, so spinners made of stainless steel or copper alloy are more suitable.