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Unless you’re a seasoned angler, you are not alone if you are wondering how to use a barrel swivel. Thousands of anglers struggle with how to use a barrel swivel. What even is a barrel swivel? When should you use it?  The importance of a barrel swivel cannot be understated. The experts at Rite Angler have compiled a helpful guide to assist new and less experienced anglers using a barrel swivel for saltwater fishing! What is a Barrel Swivel? A barrel swivel is a unique piece of tackle that allows anglers to be more efficient in the water. Barrel swivels allow the fishing line to untwist during retrieval and help prevent tangling. The barrel swivel lets the two lines rotate independently, allowing the line to untie itself during casting and retrieval. It can also apply weight, helping the line sink further into the ocean and find new schools of fish to catch. For inexperienced anglers, a barrel swivel can help ensure your first cast or drop is not one of frustration as your lines tangle and twist with the shifting of the water. Because of current and tide and drifting, saltwater is notorious for tying up lines with one another, leading to line loss and immense frustration. Why is a Barrel Swivel Important? Lines that are twisted weaken one another, leading to untimely snaps and a loss of both rig, bait, and catch! A barrel swivel keeps the lines untangled. Naturally, this ensures that the line will remain strong and not snap during casting or retrieval, or a drop down to the reef–especially if it is wrestling with a strong fish. You can see how frustrating that would be, especially since repairing a line and attaching new bait takes time–time that could be spent catching another fish or chatting with a new friend at the pier. When Should You Use a Barrel Swivel? Fishing in the ocean usually leads to your line getting tangled in the water's shifting currents. While it's not required, it should be mandatory in tumultuous waters. A barrel swivel ensures your lines remain untangled and strong, saving you headaches and trouble later in your fishing adventure. For new anglers, a barrel swivel can save time as you are still learning the sport. It familiarizes you with tackle and other tack pieces' functions during a cast or drop. Plus, the weight of a barrel swivel can help sink your line further in the ocean, enticing more fish to swim up and take a bite. Where Can You Find a Barrel Swivel? Rite Angler has premier, high-quality barrel swivels and saltwater fishing gear for the serious angler. We also supply other terminal  tackle, rigs, tools, cutlery and lures for new and experienced anglers. Our barrel swivels are made by anglers for anglers, with a satisfaction guarantee on every piece of terminal tackle. Our barrel swivel is made with highly corrosion-resistant materials and is graded for saltwater use while maintaining the strength to wrestle and pull large fish to the surface.

If you want a fun, adventurous, and relaxing weekend adventure, pier fishing is your excursion! What screams relaxation more than sitting, casting your line, and enjoying the beautiful weather as you snag a few story-worthy fish?

Do you want to know some of the best tips and tricks on how to catch redfish from a pier? There is no other fish like the redfish, and when you land a good one, you’ll be thrilled beyond words. The smell of the sea and the satisfaction of reeling in a big catch is unlike anything else in the world.

Downrigger vs. planer: which one should you use?   Well, it depends on a few things. It seems like every fishing forum has had a debate of downrigger vs. planer, with both having their pros and cons. But which one is the better option for your next trolling adventure…   And which one is the most cost effective? What is a Downrigger? Using a heavy metal weight and specialized “rod” system, a downrigger setup is used in trolling to place bait at a desired depth. This allows for more precise fishing and effective targeting of suspended fish schools, or fish that hunt below the surface. A downrigger can be especially effective when using your sounder to find fish, then deploying your baits to the exact depth.  Downriggers for fishing allow a good mix of depth control and stability, although they can be very expensive and cumbersome. Characteristics A downrigger setup is larger than a planer and requires skill but can be deployed deeper than a planer. A downrigger rig has a metal cannonball that generally weighs between five and 25 pounds. It has a spool, weight, boom, rod holder and cable to control everything. An entire downrigger setup can cost upwards of $300 and comes with either manual and electric spools for weight deployment and retrieval. Downriggers allow for high-speed trolling with less tension on the rod. Pros Downriggers can go deeper, 200 feet or more Downriggers put less pressure on the rod Provides more reliable depth control than a planer One of the most popular methods for HST Suitable for deep reef trolling for Grouper Cons Far more expensive than a fishing planer Does not use the force of the water for depth control They are complex to use and set up It is often stationary and cumbersome Does not fit in a tackle box What is a Planer? A fishing planer is a specialized metal fishing tool that helps anglers target and catch fish that hunt below the surface. In the debate of downrigger vs. planer, planers are often cited as the more affordable option for anglers and work excellently during times when the fish swim a little higher in the water column, anywhere between 5 and 30 feet down. Characteristics Planers are smaller and lighter than a downriggers and act as a hydrofoil when deployed. They have a sliding metal ring that release tension on the line when a fish strikes. Planers are often used by connecting direct to the mainline or attached to a cleat on the transom with the mainline attached to the planer by rubber bands.   Planers also do not have a heavy lead sinker like a downrigger. Instead, the forward motion of the boat causes the hydrofoil shape of the planer to “push” down deep. Pros Very affordable It works better when fish like wahoo swim a bit higher in the water column They are easy to use No special equipment needed. It uses water to force depth Different planer sizes mean different depths Fits in a tacklebox Can be run directly on your mainline Cons Planer rods must be well separated to avoid tangles Generally only reaches about thirty feet in depth depending on planer size Ineffective during months when the fish are down very deep Tough to manage in rough seas Can be difficult to retrieve while boat is in motion So, Downrigger Vs. Planer: Which One? A downrigger for fishing and an ordinary fishing planer are effective for deep-sea trolling for different purposes. Both are effective getting your baits deeper to catch certain species of fish.   A good rule of thumb is to consider where you will be fishing and how. A downrigger will be your best option if cost is no issue, and you want to get your baits very deep. If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to getting your baits down, then a fishing planer is the better option.   As far as cost effectiveness goes, it’s hard to beat a planer! You can find high quality fishing planers at Rite Angler. They’re great for targeting wahoo, kingfish, tuna and more!

Fishing with a swivel is perfect for relaxed, tangle free  fishing trips. They are easy to use, comfortable to maintain, and help eliminate many problems ordinarily encountered with traditional tackle. What is a Snap Swivel? A snap swivel is a specialized tackle that helps connect your fishing line to your lure while ensuring your line does not twist. A snap swivel rotates in a full circle to help and offer a more relaxed experience than a traditional snap. How Snap Swivels Work A snap swivel combines two pieces of terminal tackle: the snap and the swivel. A snap is a clasp that attaches to the lure, or lure leader, while the swivel prevents a line from twisting as it rotates circularly around a fixed point. This is especially important for trolling. Snap Swivels vs. Snaps Fishing with swivels can be more relaxing for many anglers, although professional tournament fishers use traditional snaps. There are reasons for this, but ordinarily, if you are looking for a relaxed fishing weekend and are not trying to compete for cash, prestige, or fame, a snap swivel is the best option. When Do You Want To Use a Snap Swivel? Fishing swivels are beneficial for all types of fishing, especially in saltwater, where the currents and sea conditions can be more tumultuous, and the fish can be more challenging to wrangle. It would be best if you used a snap swivel for the following reasons: You're Changing Lures Quickly If you are fishing in an area with diverse fish and different feeding patterns, having a snap swivel can make changing lures and bait far easier. It can also help keep your line from snapping in a struggle, making it easier to recast or get back on the troll if the fish gets away. Constantly retying the lures and lines can be exhausting. It's especially true when you have to swap baits, and not all of us have sixteen or so different rods ready to go with precise lures that we can switch out at a moment notice. Concerned About Twisted Lines The worst feeling in the world is having your line snap or get tangled, especially when the fish you are angling for is only around at certain times. Every minute counts and time spent fumbling with the fishing line is time you could've spent trying to snag that all-important catch. Fishing with a swivel helps reduce that from happening as a snap swivel moves independently from the line, helping keep the line steady no matter the struggle or shift of the water. They also allow your baits, if you’re trolling, to not spin and flip. Out with the Kids Ensuring children can fish is paramount; otherwise, they will have a poor time. A snap swivel helps children keep their line secure and untangled, as their unpredictable nature leads to many rods not working as intended. A snap swivel makes it easy for children to enjoy fishing with all their wild energy. Trolling the Deep With Experienced Anglers Experienced anglers know that the snap swivel is a go to for most trolling efforts. Not only do they allow for less line twist and less bait spin, but you can change out baits and lures very quickly, keeping you on the action. Snap Swivels and More Finding the right snap swivel can make or break a relaxing fishing trap. We want every fishing trip to be the best, and we can make that happen with high-quality tools. We bring you the highest quality fishing swivels and tackle at Rite Angler. For more information, check us out and contact us here.

It can seem challenging to catch pompano. A pompano is a deep-bodied toothless fish that tends to be picky with the rigs they'll latch on to. Luckily, anglers everywhere have developed a stunning pompano rig to help catch these elusive and delicious beauties. Pompano make for great table fare! A Pompano Rig A pompano rig, also known as a chicken rig, is a lure that helps saltwater fisherman catch bottom fish, and fish along the shoreline. A pompano rig is highly effective for surf fishing and pier fishing when targeting surf perch or pompano, where the rig earns its name. How is a Pompano Rig Different From Other Rigs? Pompano rigs imitate sand flea eggs and have a bright bead with a vibrant yellow float. As a result, it makes it impossible for pompano to resist and can hold your bait at the bottom of the ocean. Attaching a sinker, usually 2-4 oz. in weight, can help keep your bait at the perfect level to attract beautiful catches. How To Tie a Pompano Rig Tying a pompano rig is simple once you have done it at least once. Once you learn how to tie a pompano rig, you will be ready to hook bait and catch some fish! Ensure Stability You want a sinker for your pompano rig to reach the depths where the pompano hunt and other bottom fish dwell. Firstly, you should use a clinch knot if you can. Pull about five feet of fishing line, then tie the snap swivel to ensure your rig has stability before you attach a sinker to your pompano rig. Tie Your Dropper Secondly, you should tie your first dropper ten inches above your sinker. You can connect a second dropper another ten inches above the first. It ensures you can use multiple baits throughout your fishing adventure, allowing for more lucrative fishing. Slide the Float Next, you want to slide your float over the first dropper loop before sliding your bead on carefully. Be cautious, and do not hurt yourself; otherwise, you will end up with a prick or cut from the sharp hook as you set up your pompano rig. Down to the Barrel Finally, you tie your barrel swivel to the other two dropper knots. After doing so, you can connect the barrel swivel to the rig's top. It ensures that your pompano rig is ready to go. Or, you can just get some pre-tied Pompano Rigs and forget all the hassle! Baits Should You Use There are several baits that pompano cannot resist. After you have learned how to tie a pompano rig, or get some pre-tied Pompano Rigs, you should decide which bait you will use. Sand Fleas As mentioned, the pompano rig has a coloration that resembles sand flea eggs, which pampano and other bottom fish love to consume. It makes excellent bait to attract hungry fish. They are also known as "mole crabs," which you can find by the seashore. Shrimps Shrimp is always a fantastic bait to purchase at your local bait shop. You should be aware of high and low tides, however. If it is low tide, cast your shrimp farther than high tide to ensure the most guaranteed catch. Where Can You Get a Pre-Tied Pompano Rig? Rite Angler has provided saltwater anglers with bait and tackle for years. We have high-quality pre-tied pompano rigs, droppers, swivels, and more to help ensure your next saltwater adventure is worth bragging over. For more information, click here.

Cast net fishing is arguably one of the best ways to catch mullet. It’s a convenient way to fish, and it’s relatively easy to do. Every angler has their own way of doing things, but there are some basic tips and techniques that can help you get started with catching mullet with a cast net.

Often an exercise in futility, successful redfish fishing depends on a small but varied tackle selection. Commonly caught in the 4 to 6-pound range, red drums or “redfish” vary from rats of 15 inches or less to the greater-sized bull redfish that can exceed sixty inches in length and weigh a staggering ninety pounds. Redfish have an “inferior” mouth, meaning their nose extends out over the mouth. Reds typically use their hard nose to root around at the bottom of the water column. These fish are opportunistic feeders, not scavengers. It is a challenge for any expert to determine the best tackle for redfish since they can be so picky on any given day. The gear you should use will depend on where you want to fish and the size of fish you anticipate catching… and how the fish are reacting that day. Best Rods and Reels for Redfish Most anglers will target reds in the 3 to 10-pound range. For this type of red drum, medium spinning and light conventional setups work the best. Alternatively, those fishing for larger bull redfish in inlets and around bridges might be better suited using stout, conventional gear. Medium spinning rods with fast action with a 3000 or 4000 series reel work incredibly well for anglers explicitly targeting redfish. Fast-action in this scenario refers to a stout rod at the butt and middle with tapering for a limber tip. As one of the best rigs for pier fishing and other inshore situations, this outfit enables a fisherman to cast light lures and baits while maintaining appropriate strength to handle decent-sized fish. Like we said, they can grow huge. Some will utilize spinning rods when fishing with lighter lures and live bait. This setup is more appropriate when fishing redfish sized thirty inches and under in open water. Choosing a Fishing Line Option Modern saltwater fishing gear providers offer three basic choices regarding fishing lines for redfish outfits. These include fluorocarbon lines, braided lines and monofilament lines. Using a braided line remains the more popular choice. It is more expensive but doesn’t stretch, offers increased sensitivity, casts further, and lasts longer. A few feet of fluoro or mono leader should be used to help hide the line from the fish's sight. Some anglers prefer the stretch and feel of the monofilament line. Although braided line may remain more popular among redfish anglers, there is no end-all best tackle for redfish. It all comes down to a matter of individual preference. Pair this with one of our redfish rigs for pier fishing, and any angler is bound to reel in some nice reds. Top Artificial Lures Both live bait and artificial lures work great when targeting redfish. The main advantage of lures over traditional live bait is fishermen can use lures to cover more water while they search for fish. Some reddish may scatter out on larger, more expansive flats, making lures the better tackle solution. A tried-and-true lure option, the spoon may very well represent the top artificial redfish lure of all time. Weedless spoons help prevent the lures from getting caught in grass flats and still serve as one of the best search baits, enabling anglers to cover a significant distance safely. Plastic, tailed jigs are one of the oldest swimming bait options and are notably effective for catching various fish species. Red drums are no exception to the allure of these artificial baits. A simple, economical, effective option, soft plastic baits come in a wide array of colors and styles. Nonetheless, lighter colors work best in clear water for catching reds, and darker colors are a better solution for murkier conditions. Top Tackle Solutions for Catching Redfish Anglers have several choices at their disposal when attempting to fill a cooler to the brim with redfish. The best tackle for redfish will vary depending on the location, tide, temperature, time of year, and other factors. Rite Angler has some of the all-time best saltwater fishing gear for catching reds. With Rite Angler you have so much at your disposal that you can try. Once you figure out what works best to catch redfish, you should have a few rigs and lures that you can return to get them repeatedly. Always try varied fishing techniques, as variety is crucial to catching any fish. Our team from Rite Angler focuses on creating durable, corrosion-resistant fishing gear for the angler who understands the importance of quality fishing tackle. To learn more about what we can do to help you start catching reds (or any fish of your choice) in no time, reach out to Rite Angler today!

Have you wanted to try saltwater fishing but don't know where to begin? Here are 12 saltwater fishing tips for beginners.