Pollock Primer (Part 2)

[Ryan W]

If you want to make the sinkers easier to bust off, try making an overhand knot right above your surgeon's loop (and don't use a kiwi loop). This will reduce the breaking strength, enabling the line to bust easier.

[Tin Squid]

Originally Posted by Ryan W

If you want to make the sinkers easier to bust off, try making an overhand knot right above your surgeon's loop (and don't use a kiwi loop). This will reduce the breaking strength, enabling the line to bust easier.

That is absolutely a good way to make a sinker break off and I've made rigs that way as well. The reason for recommending the 3-way swivel rig is it has been the easiest way to quickly bust off sinkers with big fish attached. I have seen people trying to break the sinker off in the past with a big pollock on the hook and frankly, they were having some serious difficulties as the fish was limiting the leverage they could get on the rig. I opted for the 3-way swivel rig with light line so as to not have that problem. That rig with one hook at 4 to 4.5 ft and a 20 pound sinker line with a 3-way swivel is one I still use on "very sticky" cod wrecks as well. I keep a few in my bag "just in case".

[Chico]

Thanks for all the great info. I did manage to land a 29# pollock last Aug. with Capt. Jeff, "beginners luck". I already booked on the Voyager's May 1st trip this year! Can't wait, gonna try jigging for them this time.

[Tin Squid]

Originally Posted by Chico

Thanks for all the great info. I did manage to land a 29# pollock last Aug. with Capt. Jeff, "beginners luck". I already booked on the Voyager's May 1st trip this year! Can't wait, gonna try jigging for them this time.

You are certainly welcome! Jig up a few for me on May 1st.