Lead vs Tungsten?

[allfingsfishy1]

Hi Everyone,

I'm really new to bass fishing and was wondering if any of you had an opinion on what worm sinkers are best to use, lead or tungsten?, and if tungsten, are they really worth the extra cost?

[fishfordollars]

They are as far as I'm concerned.

[Catt]

Totally personal preference, since I was given some tungsten weights I use both and find neither one better.

Are tungsten weights worth the higher price?

That's up to you!  

[SimonSays]

I feel like tungsten is better than lead when it comes to transmitting the feel of bottom structure.  As for other concerns on size and such vs lead I'm not sure as I've landed fish on both setups.  

[J Francho]

Since lead is no longer for sale in NY, I use tungsten.  Steel and tin weights are just WAYYY too big, though I sometimes like a bigger (not heavier)  weight with big baits.  Watch out for nicks in the paint job - it'll cut your line.  If you have a choice, pick the one that fits profile and fall rate you think the fish desire.

[Raul]

Advantages of tungsten:

1.- Denser than lead: means that for the same weight tungsten sinker are smaller than lead sinkers, in some application smaller sinkers are better.

2.- Because it 's denser it has better vibration transmitting properties: you can feel the bottom composition better, which sometimes it 's important.

3.- Harder than lead: which means it doesn 't deform as much as lead does when fishing rough terrain.

4.- Better acoustic properties: in some circumstances such acoustic properties are better, like in Carolina rigs.

5.- Non toxic: in some places in the country lead is banned.

Disadvantages of tungsten:

1.- Expensive

2.- You can 't pour tungsten ( and for me that is a disadvantage, most of my sinkers & jigheads are poured by me ).

So it 's a matter of personal prefence.

[Sam]

As usual, Raul gave a great response to your query.

So here is my two cents.

If you are fishing a tournament or just want to know what is on the bottom then use tungston.

If you are out for a fun time then use lead.

When the fish "hits" your bait, either way you will know it.

Your type of weight is one of the variables in your set up with your line test and type; your rod's specifications; and your reel's power and type that will help you "feel the bite."

So, as the other guys have said, it is personal preference.

Just go out and have some fun and use either type, or use a brass weight.  

[Bassin_Fin@tic]

I'm all for tungsten but can't afford it so I don't own very much.

[flatbass]

Tungsten is much more sensitive

The small size makes for a more natural presentation.

I think I get better hooksets because there is no large sinker in the way.

They are more expensive, but if you will look at some of the smaller tungsten manufactures you can get some real deals.

I have used them for several years and would never go back.

[Pigsticker]

I own only tungsten but I think due to tungsten's small size you get less hang ups.  This might also might be because I only use braid so I just straighten out a hook to get my weight back                      Superline hook<Tungsten

But I bought a 4 pack of tungsten 1/4 oz weights back in december and still have two left.

[Primus]

I definetely prefer Tungsten for many of the reasons already cited, however you can still catch plenty of fish with lead sinkers. I look at Tungten sinkers, premium hooks and florocarbon line as potential difference makers that will pick you up a few extra bites during the season, nevertheless these can be pricey upgrades and I've seen many folks catch their share with more budget oriented options. In conclusion if Tungsten won't break the budget it's worth having, but it's not a neccesity unless you're fishing in certain tournaments when their is a lot of money on the line.

[allfingsfishy1]

Found some transparent worm weights on ESPN, anyone used these?

Not sure if i can post link, please advise.

Thanks