The twist on micro-swivels

Most inshore anglers believe that large, bulky swivels impede casting accuracy, spook fish, and can lead to unnecessary cut-offs. This philosophy may have held merit in the past; however thanks to new developments in technology, a downsizing tendency has influenced the terminal tackle industry to produce a new crop of micro-swivels. These new swivels provide superior strength and outstanding durability in a petite, compact package.

Tiny micro-swivels were inspired by the finesse-fishing craze, where anglers continue to scale down their terminal gear to fool savvy fish. Low profile super strong micro-swivels complement the stealthy, low visibility terminal gear approach, where invisible fluorocarbon leaders and hard-to-see thin wire hooks are now the norm.

Popular applications for tiny micro-swivels include connecting braided line to fluorocarbon leaders, monofilament line to fluorocarbon leaders, and fluorocarbon or monofilament to wire leaders. Not only getting the job done, micro-swivels are so small they reel right through the guides, allowing light-tackle anglers to reel the bait or lure right to the rod tip for efficient casting. An additional benefit is that micro-swivels track through the water quietly and are far less visible than their larger counterparts.

Equally advantageous, these minuscule works of wonder are proving to be just the ticket for avoiding a serious problem affecting all light tackle anglers, line twist. Line twist leads to frustrating tangles, reduces casting distance, and creates weak links in your line. That’s because the inherent design of spinning reels rely on the bail to wind line onto the spool. As the bail lays line evenly onto the spool, it turns and twists the line. Therefore, with every crank of the handle you’re applying more twist. And the more twisted the line becomes, the farther up the spool the twist travels. The problem is compounded by the torque caused by the resistance of the bait, lure, or a hooked fish. Plus, if you try to reel against the drag, twist inevitably becomes an even bigger headache. While there are several ways to prevent line twist, there is no question the easiest is to include a micro-swivel in your terminal gear.

There are various types of micro-swivels designed to match specific fishing applications. However, three basic designs cover most inshore needs and familiarizing yourself with the pros & cons of each will help in making the most of your day on the water.

The basic barrel swivel design comprises a small barrel that has been swaged around formed eyes. Barrel swivels are extremely popular due to their affordability and wide range of sizes. Under minimal loads, a micro-size barrel swivel will perform to specification. However they do have disadvantages, such as their inability to turn smoothly under extremely heavy loads and friction occurs in the barrel when the eyes and body rub against each other. When sized inappropriately or subjected to repeated battles with strong saltwater gamefish, the friction within the swivel can inhibit its overall performance.

The SPRO Corporation currently markets a series of barrel swivels manufactured out of high-grade stainless steel known as Power Swivels. If you are going to employ the use of a barrel swivel, Power Swivels stand out above the rest. Not only do these swivels easily outperform their brass counterparts by providing a super smooth rotation and unbelievable strength and durability, but even the smallest Power Swivels are close to twice as strong as comparative brass swivels, despite their tiny appearance. With Power Swivel’s micro-size also comes reduced visibility, offering very little water resistance and superb stealth for finesse type fishing.

By comparison, ball bearing type micro-swivels contain tiny stainless steel ball bearings positioned between the spindle and body. This enables the swivel to rotate freely, negating any twist, even under the heaviest of loads. The perceived disadvantage of ball bearing micro-swivels is their price. However, in certain situations — especially when chasing trophy fish — you can’t afford not to use them. Ball bearing micro-swivels offer anglers the ultimate in smooth rotation and exceptional strength. Sought after by professionals, ball bearing swivels come in a variety of sizes to fill the needs of any fisherman, inshore or off.

Heavy swivels, once only available for commercial use, are quickly gaining respect in the industry by providing the tiniest in strength -vs- size ratio. There isn't another micro-swivel out there that can match the strength of a heavy swivel for its size. Heavy swivels bear little resemblance to common barrel or ball bearing swivels. Rather than a barrel shaped body with rings at each end, heavy swivel’s have a trim, tube-like profile containing no protruding midsection. Anglers commonly refer to heavy swivels as wind-on swivels because their streamlined shape permit them to run safely through rod guides and onto a reel. Heavy swivels are available in different sizes - most of which fit on the tip of your finger.

Extremely compact and unbelievably strong, heavy swivels do have one potential disadvantage. Heavy swivels turn more freely than standard barrel swivels, but not quite as smoothly as ball bearing models. If a precise lure or technique generates a lot of line twist, you may want to use a ball bearing swivel.

When it comes to sizing swivels, the standard theory is to use a swivel that is one size heavier or I should say stronger than the leader. While using a swivel that’s just large enough to get the job done has merit, such as being less visible and posing less of a temptation to other fish, stepping it up a bit is recommended. If you’re not stealth fishing and can get away with a substantially stronger swivel than your leader, you’ll get that much more insurance.

Selecting the correct micro-swivel hinges largely on how you’ll be fishing. As I mentioned, their outstanding performance and extremely low profile prevent line twist when trolling, casting, and fighting powerful fish. Finally, keep in mind that micro-swivels are a critical element of your terminal gear and need to be cared for. Like with all of your tackle, rinse with fresh water after each use and replace them periodically, even if they appear to be operating smoothly. Doing so will guarantee that they’ll do their job and hold together when you need them most. Do not allow your swivel to be the weakest link in the chain!