Fishing Swivels

Fishing Swivels Buying Guide

Fishing swivels help reduce line twist and create a reliable connection between your main line, leader, trace, lure, sinker or rig. This category includes barrel swivels and snap swivels, giving options for lure fishing, bait fishing, surfcasting, rock fishing and general saltwater use in New Zealand.

Barrel Swivels or Snap Swivels?

The best choice depends on how you fish. Barrel swivels are simple fixed connectors. Snap swivels include an opening clip, which makes changing lures, traces or rigs faster.

• Barrel swivels: Best for fixed rigs, traces, ledger rigs, strayline rigs and bait fishing setups.
• Snap swivels: Best for quick lure changes, sinker changes, surf rigs and tackle setups that need regular adjustment.

Choosing the Right Swivel Strength

Use the smallest suitable swivel for the fish, line and rig. A smaller swivel is less bulky, while a stronger swivel is better for heavy sinkers, stronger casts and larger fish.

• 8kg to 9kg swivels: Suitable for light lure fishing, trout, small kahawai, baitfish rigs and lighter harbour setups.
• 18kg to 30kg swivels: A good match for kahawai, trevally, gurnard, smaller snapper and everyday saltwater rigs.
• 43kg to 48kg swivels: Useful for stronger inshore fishing, surfcasting, heavier traces and mixed saltwater species.
• 60kg to 70kg swivels: Best for heavy surfcasting, rock fishing, larger bait presentations and stronger terminal tackle setups.

When to Use Snap Swivels

Snap swivels are helpful when changing tackle regularly. They suit spinning lures, spoon lures, soft bait clips, sinker changes and surf rigs where speed and convenience matter.

When to Use Barrel Swivels

Barrel swivels suit rigs that stay tied in place. They are often used between the main line and trace, above hook traces, or within bait fishing rigs where a fixed connection is preferred.

Pack Size Guide

Smaller 10 packs are useful for heavier swivels that are used less often. The 20 and 50 pack options suit regular rig tying, tackle box restocking and anglers who prepare multiple traces before fishing.

Fishing Tip

Match the swivel to your line strength and target species. An undersized swivel can become a weak point. However, an oversized swivel can look bulky and may affect lure movement or bait presentation.