From the hook that holds your bait in just the right position to the floats that provide that all-important bite indication, terminal tackle is the kit you find at the business end of your line. You need the leads that enable you to take your line out to where the fish are hiding together with the swivels and clips that hold an effective rig to the line and much more besides. Anglers rely on terminal tackle to deliver the results they are looking for!
What should you look for?
Your specific needs will depend on your chosen angling discipline, the species you are targeting, and the kinds of venues you usually choose to fish. Venues often have their own rules regarding what types of terminal tackle can be used and these may dictate what you decide to invest in when you are equipping your tackle box. You should look for strong, durable and corrosion-resistant terminal tackle. Colours that can be seen from the bank but which are low-profile when below the surface are essential. You need shapes and textures that will draw the fish in and won't spook them when they are feeding on your free baits.
How much terminal tackle should you buy?
Less is rarely more with terminal tackle. It is best to give yourself numerous options, so choose various patterns, sizes and weights. This will give you the greatest chance of having the perfect rig for any given circumstances. On the other hand, you don't want to weigh yourself down too much or clutter up your tackle box! To give yourself the best chance of success, research the venues that you will be fishing to discover what hook patterns and types of terminal tackle are typically allowed or are favoured by those who fish there. You can then decide what to buy and, depending on where you are heading for a particular trip, you can always choose to reduce what you have to carry by leaving any items which you are unlikely to use at home for the day.
Experiment with your terminal tackle
As you progress on your angling adventure, you can experiment with different options and find out what works for you at each venue. You will discover what feels right and what delivers the best results.
No guarantees
If we could tell you which terminal tackle is guaranteed to work well for you, we would. But there are no sure things with angling! What works for one person or at a certain venue, may do nothing at all for the next guy. You will also find that a set-up which yields you amazing success one day will leave you scratching your head on your next trip. Patterns will emerge if you are paying attention and you will learn what tends to work and when. Ultimately, it is your skill and initiative which will get you the results you are looking for. Your terminal tackle is just the final piece in the jigsaw.