
When it comes to fishing for catfish, there are a variety of baits, rigs, and sinkers that can be used depending on the water conditions. In small impoundments, a pinch-on weight or a few split shots may be enough to get baits to where catfish feed, but in bigger waters, a heavier sinker may be required. Bank sinkers are a type of fishing sinker that can be used when fishing for catfish. They are typically used when fishing in currents and anchoring out in the river. While some anglers prefer using bank sinkers, others opt for no-roll sinkers or egg sinkers, which are popular for catfishing. Ultimately, the choice of sinker depends on personal preference, fishing conditions, and the type of fish being targeted.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use case | Big tailraces, rivers with currents |
| Pros | Ability to add/remove weight, cheaper |
| Cons | Gets snagged easily, more components to lose |
| Compared to | No-roll sinkers, egg sinkers |
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What You'll Learn

Bank sinkers are good for adding weight
When it comes to catfish angling, there are various factors to consider when choosing the right sinker. The type of sinker used will depend on the fishing conditions, such as current, wind, depth, and location. One popular option for catfish fishing is the bank sinker.
The ability to add weight with bank sinkers is advantageous when fishing in deeper waters or when there is a strong current. The extra weight helps to get the bait down to the desired depth, increasing the chances of attracting catfish. This is particularly useful when fishing for catfish, as they can inhabit diverse waters and different depths.
Another benefit of using bank sinkers is their affordability. They are often mentioned as a cheaper option compared to other sinkers. Additionally, their design allows for easy removal of weight when packing away fishing rods, making them convenient for transportation.
However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks of using bank sinkers. Some anglers have mentioned that bank sinkers may snag more easily. Additionally, when using a sinker slide with a bank sinker, there are more components to keep track of and potentially lose. Anglers should also be cautious not to add too much weight, as an unnatural amount of weight may cause the catfish to drop the bait.
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They are useful for fishing in rivers with currents
When fishing for catfish in rivers with currents, bank sinkers can be a useful option. Bank sinkers are effective in rivers with currents because they can anchor your bait in place, preventing it from being swept away by the current. This is especially beneficial if you're fishing in areas with strong currents or deeper waters where the current may be more pronounced.
One of the advantages of using bank sinkers in rivers with currents is their ability to add weight to your rig. This additional weight helps to counter the force of the current, allowing you to maintain control over your bait presentation. By adjusting the weight of your bank sinker, you can ensure that your bait remains in the target zone, increasing your chances of attracting catfish.
Another benefit of bank sinkers in these conditions is their stability. The design of bank sinkers, with a flat or curved shape, helps them to stay in place on the riverbed. This stability is crucial in rivers with strong currents as it prevents your bait from being dragged along the bottom, potentially spooking the catfish or causing snags.
When using bank sinkers in rivers with currents, it's important to consider the weight and design that suits the specific conditions you're fishing in. For stronger currents, you may need to use heavier weights, typically ranging from 4 to 6 ounces, to effectively counter the force of the water. Additionally, the shape of the bank sinker can impact its performance. Some anglers prefer using flat or curved bank sinkers as they believe these shapes snag less and provide better stability in currents.
While bank sinkers offer advantages in rivers with currents, it's worth noting that other sinker styles, such as no-roll sinkers or egg sinkers, also have their proponents. Ultimately, the choice of sinker depends on various factors, including personal preference, the specific fishing conditions, and the behaviour of the catfish in that particular river. Anglers often experiment with different sinkers and rigs to find the setup that works best for their specific river and target species.
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They are cheaper than other sinkers
When it comes to catfish angling, there are a variety of sinkers to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One option that is often favoured by anglers is the use of bank sinkers. While there are differing opinions on the effectiveness of bank sinkers compared to other options, one undeniable advantage they offer is their cost-effectiveness.
Bank sinkers are known for being inexpensive, making them a popular choice for anglers on a budget. Their affordability means that anglers can stock up on these sinkers without breaking the bank, which can be especially useful when fishing in areas where there is a higher risk of losing tackle, such as in rivers with strong currents or areas with underwater obstacles. The low cost of bank sinkers also means that anglers can experiment with different weights and techniques without having to worry about the financial burden of purchasing more expensive sinkers.
In addition to their initial low cost, bank sinkers can also save anglers money in the long run. Their simple design and ease of use often mean that anglers can rig them up quickly and efficiently, reducing the amount of time spent on the water and, consequently, the associated costs of fishing trips, such as fuel and bait. Furthermore, the durability of bank sinkers should not be overlooked. While all sinkers are susceptible to wear and tear, bank sinkers are known for their longevity, further adding to their cost-effectiveness.
Another factor contributing to the affordability of bank sinkers is their versatility. Anglers can use bank sinkers in a variety of fishing scenarios, from river fishing to bank fishing in lakes and reservoirs. This versatility means that anglers do not have to invest in multiple types of sinkers for different fishing environments, streamlining their tackle selection and reducing overall costs. Additionally, bank sinkers can be used with various baits and rigs, providing anglers with the flexibility to adapt to the conditions and target catfish effectively without incurring additional expenses.
While the performance and effectiveness of bank sinkers in catfish angling may be debated, their economic advantages are undeniable. Bank sinkers offer anglers a cost-effective solution without compromising the opportunity to land a decent catch. Their affordability, durability, and versatility make them a popular choice for anglers of all experience levels, providing a practical option for those seeking value for money in their fishing endeavours.
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They are easy to transport
When it comes to catfish angling, ease of transportation is a key consideration. Bank sinkers offer a distinct advantage in this regard, providing a convenient and hassle-free option for anglers on the move.
One of the primary benefits of bank sinkers is their removability. Anglers can easily detach the sinkers from their rigs, making them highly portable. This feature is especially advantageous when packing rods away in a truck or vehicle, as it reduces the overall weight and bulkiness of the setup. The ability to remove the sinkers simplifies transportation, making it more convenient to travel to different fishing spots.
Additionally, the compact nature of bank sinkers contributes to their ease of transport. Their small size and lightweight design make them easy to carry, store, and manage. They can be effortlessly packed away with other fishing gear, occupying minimal space and adding little weight to the overall load. This portability is particularly valuable for anglers who frequently travel to different fishing locations or those who prefer a more streamlined setup.
The versatility of bank sinkers further enhances their transportability. Anglers can use them in various fishing scenarios, eliminating the need to carry multiple types of sinkers. Bank sinkers can be adapted to different conditions, currents, and environments, providing a flexible solution that simplifies the overall gear setup. This adaptability means anglers can travel light, knowing they have a versatile tool that can be adjusted to suit the specific fishing requirements of each location.
Moreover, the affordability of bank sinkers makes them an attractive option for anglers. Their cost-effectiveness means that purchasing multiple sets for different fishing locations is more financially feasible. This affordability also reduces the worry associated with potential loss or damage during transportation, as replacing them is relatively inexpensive.
In conclusion, bank sinkers are highly transportable due to their removability, compactness, versatility, and affordability. These features make them a convenient and practical choice for anglers, particularly those who frequently travel to different fishing spots or require a more streamlined and adaptable setup. Bank sinkers' ease of transportation contributes to a more enjoyable and efficient fishing experience, allowing anglers to focus on their catch rather than the hassle of managing bulky or cumbersome gear.
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They can be used with sinker sliders
When it comes to fishing for catfish, there is no single type of rig that works for all situations. This is because catfish inhabit diverse waters, so there are many ways to set out baits for the best bite. In small impoundments, a pinch-on weight or a few split shots are sufficient to get baits out where catfish feed. However, in a big tailrace, you might need a 6-ounce bank sinker to cast a bait out into the sweet spot below a dam.
A sinker slider, also known as a fishfinder, is a versatile piece of terminal equipment that can be used with bank sinkers. It is useful for anglers who want to fish with live bait. Sinker sliders are especially important when fishing for catfish because they allow the fish to pick up the bait without sensing pressure or feeling the weight of the sinker. This is important because catfish are very sensitive when it comes to grabbing bait and will immediately spit it out if they feel resistance.
The sinker slide is placed above the swivel, with a live bait rig consisting of a naked J-hook below the swivel. It is important to make sure that the swivel diameter is larger than the hole in the sinker slide to prevent the swivel from getting jammed and stuck. Additionally, the plastic slider should be checked periodically for integrity as braided lines can wear a groove in the plastic.
Using a sinker slider can also help protect your line and prevent it from breaking. When a weight is tied directly to the line, it can weaken the line and cause it to fray. By using a sinker slider, you can maintain the strength of your line and reduce the risk of losing fish and tackle.
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Frequently asked questions
Bank sinkers are beneficial when fishing in a big tailrace as they can help you bomb a cut bait out into the sweet spot below a dam. They are also useful when you want to add weight to your setup.
Bank sinkers can get snagged up easily. They also have two contact points with your line, which can make it harder to cast.
Bank sinkers are ideal for fishing in lakes and reservoirs when there is wind, current, or depth that makes an unweighted rig impractical.
Egg sinkers are the most popular sinkers for catfishing. No-roll sinkers are also a good option when fishing in moving water, as they have a flat shape that helps them stay in place on the bottom.










































