How to Make Lead Fishing Sinkers

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Some fishermen make their own sinkers for the financial saving and some just enjoy using tackle that they crafted. Whatever the reason, making your own sinkers is easy and fun. The initial cost of the equipment will be returned quickly once you start making the sinkers. Another advantage is that you can make sinkers that may not be available in your area. An angler can make enough sinkers in one session to last for most of the season. Always remember to be safe and do not take shortcuts on safety procedures.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Lead
Melting pot
Sinker mold
Ladle
Skimmer
Heavy gloves
Safety glasses
Particle mask
Side-cutting pliers

Step 1

Place the lead melting pot on a sturdy work surface or bench. Ensure the work surface can withstand molten lead. Work outside if possible or make sure your work area has good ventilation.

Step 2

Place some lead ingots inside the melting pot. Don safety glasses, heavy gloves and a particle mask. Plug the pot in and turn the heat control to at least the medium setting. Adjust the setting when lead is molten to keep it liquid.

Step 3

Skim surface with a metal ladle or skimmer to remove impurities on the surface of the lead. Discard impurities into a metal can. Stir lead and repeat to remove all impurities.

Step 4

Put the pour ladle into the lead and let it warm up. Dip some lead and pour it into the mold cavity until filled. Adjust the melting temperature if needed to keep the lead fluid.

Step 5

Allow the lead to cool for several minutes. Remove the sinkers from the mold. Trim any excess lead from the sinker with side-cutter pliers. Examine the sinker for serviceability. Re-melt any sinkers that are inferior.

Tips & Warnings

Cast lead into ingots for storage.

Practice makes perfect. Experiment with pour rates and temperatures to find what works for you.

Read and obey the manufacturer's owner manual for the melting pot and mold.

Pouring lead can be dangerous. Proceed slowly and wear proper safety equipment.

Resources

Lyndon Huggens: Fishing Sinker Pouring

Article Written By Daniel Ray

Daniel Ray has been writing for over 15 years. He has been published in "Florida Sportsman" magazine. He holds an FAA airframe and powerplant license and FCC radiotelephone license, and is also a licensed private pilot. He attended the University of South Florida.

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