Split shot
Also called shot, pinch-on weight, split-shot weight
Split shot are small, pinch-on lead or non-lead weights added to a leader to make a nymph rig sink faster and track deeper.
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- Indicators & weight
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- Beginner
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- Freshwater
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What Split shot means
Split shot are round weights with a slit. You pinch them onto the leader or tippet with fingers or forceps to add weight without changing flies.
Many anglers place split shot above the tippet section, often a short distance above the fly or above a knot that acts as a stop. You can stack two smaller pieces instead of one big one, and you can move them up or down to change sink rate.
Because split shot grabs the line, it can nick or weaken tippet, especially lighter diameters. Many people replace the section that held the shot after a few moves. Some waters restrict lead split shot.
Why it matters on the water
Weight placement changes how a nymph rig behaves. More weight or weight closer to the flies gets down quicker but can hang up more and makes the rig harder to cast cleanly. Less weight or weight farther away drifts more naturally but may never reach the feeding lane.
Split shot is the fastest way to adjust depth without retying flies. If the indicator drifts through good water without ticking occasionally, add a small shot. If you are snagging constantly, take one off or slide it farther from the flies.
Read next
- LeaderThe leader is the clear, tapered line between the fly line and the fly. It turns the fly over and gives you a clean, controlled presentation.
- Strike indicatorA strike indicator is a small float or marker on the leader that shows takes and depth while nymphing. It moves, stalls, dips, or shoots sideways when the flies get bumped or eaten.
- TippetTippet is the thin, level line tied to the end of your leader. It’s the section you cut back and replace as you change flies and re-tie knots.
- Tungsten beadA tungsten bead is a small, heavy metal bead tied on a hook to add weight and help a fly sink faster.
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