Creature Feature – Falling Hard for Tungsten

Increasingly more anglers are falling hard for tungsten fishing tackle. I’m among those who have switched to tungsten and will never go back to using “traditional” lead tackle, because tungsten simply outperforms lead. It’s a game changer! Let’s check out some of the reasons why tungsten is the gold standard of fishing tackle.

Because tungsten is nearly twice as dense as lead, anglers get more weight in a smaller package. For example, a one ounce sinker made from tungsten is around 30% smaller than a one ounce sinker made from lead. Tungsten sinkers and jigs also sink faster than identical lead tackle. These qualities mean that baits get down to where the fish are with greater stealth and speed.

Also, because it’s such a hard metal, tungsten provides enhanced sensitivity so anglers can better detect changes in the type of bottom – i.e., when rock transitions to sand or mud. This increased sensitivity also helps anglers detect bites better than they can with lead tackle. Additionally, tungsten doesn’t get jagged edges like easily-chipped lead weights, meaning reduced occurrences of getting hung up on the bottom or frayed line. Furthermore, tungsten tackle clicks and amplifies sound better than lead, helping draw in more fish.

Last but not least, tungsten is environmentally friendly and doesn’t poison loons, swans, eagles, herons, and other aquatic wildlife like toxic lead tackle. Yes, tungsten costs more, but it’s simply the best high-performance tackle material made today. Besides, isn’t safe wildlife and clean natural resources priceless? 

Article & photo by Margie Manthey