This is what the 'stopper' leader of a typical slide-baiting rig looks like. Normal length is between four and six feet with a 3/0 barrel swivel on top and the stopper on the bottom. The stopper in the photo is made of stainless steel and a 3/0 barrel swivel was slid onto the ring before it was welded shut. Some stoppers are made out of brass rings and, in a pinch, plain old washers will do . The extra tab of wire at the top is where the baited hook leader will stop once it reaches this point. This keeps the bait a few feet off the bottom so it's easier for the fish to find. Once there is a strike, the hook leader passes over the tab, past the lock-in hook and down to the stopper. The purpose of the lock-in hook is two-fold. In the event that the lead line does not break upon strike and the lead (or the stopper) somehow gets snagged on the bottom during the battle, the lock-in hook will prevent the fish from running back up the mainline. Also, the struggling fish can help free a snagged stopper or sinker.
Signed the Guestbook yet?
Please let me know of any problems with this page
smokemeatman@yahoo.com
