The Ultimate Guide to 3 Way Swivels: Setup, Techniques, and Best Practices

Fishing enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference in their success on the water. Among essential tools, the 3 way swivel stands out due to its versatility and effectiveness in various fishing applications. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about 3 way swivels—from setup and applications to techniques for maximizing your catch.

Comparison Table: Types and Applications of 3 Way Swivels

Type of Swivel	Description	Best Applications	Pros	Cons
Traditional 3-Way	Classic design with three arms	Bottom fishing, trolling	Simple setup, effective for various baits	Prone to bending/breaking
T-Turn Swivel	“T” shaped swivel that minimizes twists	Drift fishing, anchored boat fishing	Reduces tangles	Can jam under stress
Ball Bearing Swivel	High-quality swivel with bearings	Deep water fishing, multi-line setups	Durable, smooth rotation	Higher cost
Barrel Swivel Combo	Two barrel swivels used together	Versatile applications	Reduced breakage, great for deep water	More complex setup
Brass Swivel	Made from brass for added strength	Heavy-duty applications	Strong and reliable	Heavier than alternatives

Understanding the 3 Way Swivel Rig

The 3 way swivel rig is an essential setup for anglers targeting species like walleye and catfish. Its design allows for multiple lines to be presented simultaneously, optimizing bait presentation across different depths and areas.

What is a 3 Way Swivel?

A 3 way swivel consists of three arms that pivot around a central ring, providing flexibility in line arrangement. This feature is particularly beneficial for presenting bait or lures at varying depths, which is essential when fishing in diverse water conditions.

Why Use a 3 Way Swivel?

Using a 3 way swivel rig can drastically enhance your fishing experience. It allows for effective bait presentation, reduces line twists, and increases your chances of catching fish. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or the shore, this rig offers versatility that can adapt to various fishing environments.

Setting Up a 3 Way Swivel Rig

Setting up a 3 way swivel rig is straightforward, but attention to detail is essential for optimal performance. Follow these steps for a successful setup:

1. Gather Your Equipment: You’ll need a 3 way swivel, a main fishing line, dropper line, sinker weight, and a leader line with a hook.

2. Attach the Swivel: Connect the main line to the central eye of the 3 way swivel.

3. Add the Dropper Line: Attach a length of dropper line to one of the side eyes of the swivel. This line will hold the sinker.

4. Attach the Sinker: Connect your chosen sinker weight to the end of the dropper line, which will help maintain depth.

5. Add the Leader Line: Connect another line (the leader) to the remaining side of the swivel. Attach your hook at the end of this line.

6. Test the Rig: Before heading out, ensure everything is secure and functioning correctly.

Techniques for Using a 3 Way Swivel Rig

Trolling with a 3 Way Swivel

Trolling is one of the most effective techniques for utilizing a 3 way swivel rig. By varying the speed of your boat and adjusting the depth of your lines, you can effectively cover more water and entice different species of fish.

Bottom Fishing

Bottom fishing with a 3 way swivel rig is ideal for targeting species that dwell near the seabed. By adjusting the sinker weight, you can easily fish in shallow or deep waters, making this rig incredibly versatile.

Drift Fishing

When drift fishing, the 3 way swivel allows for natural bait movement, mimicking the look of prey. This approach can be particularly effective in currents, as it enables your bait to flow naturally with the water.

Technical Features of 3 Way Swivels

Below is a comparison table outlining the technical features of various 3 way swivels available on the market:

Brand	Material	Size Options	Weight Capacity	Special Features
SPRO	Brass	3 sizes	Up to 50 lbs	Enhanced durability
Eagle Claw	Stainless Steel	4 sizes	Up to 30 lbs	Corrosion resistance
Rosco	High Test Steel	2 sizes	Up to 40 lbs	Multi-line applications
Bass Pro Shops	Brass	3 sizes	Up to 25 lbs	Dual lock snaps
Cabela’s	Zinc Alloy	3 sizes	Up to 35 lbs	Smooth rotation with minimal twist

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Conclusion

The 3 way swivel rig is a versatile and essential tool for anglers seeking to enhance their fishing prowess. Understanding its setup, applications, and techniques can drastically improve your chances of landing your target species. Whether you are trolling, bottom fishing, or drift fishing, mastering the 3 way swivel rig will undoubtedly elevate your fishing experience.

FAQ

What is a 3 way swivel rig?
A 3 way swivel rig is a fishing setup that uses a specialized swivel with three arms, allowing for multiple lines to be presented at various depths simultaneously.

How do I set up a 3 way swivel rig?
Attach the main line to the central eye of the swivel, connect a dropper line with a sinker to one side, and a leader line with a hook to the other side.

What species can I catch using a 3 way swivel rig?
You can target various species, including walleye, catfish, bass, and more, depending on your location and bait used.

Can I use a 3 way swivel for trolling?
Yes, trolling with a 3 way swivel rig is effective as it allows for multiple baits at different depths.

What materials are 3 way swivels made from?
Common materials include brass, stainless steel, and zinc alloy, each offering different strengths and durability.

Are there specific weights I should use with a 3 way swivel rig?
The weight depends on the water depth and target species. Generally, 1-2 oz for shallow waters and 5-6 oz for deeper waters.

How do I avoid tangles when using a 3 way swivel?
Using high-quality swivels, ensuring lines are properly arranged, and avoiding excessive slack can help minimize tangles.

What is the advantage of using a ball bearing swivel?
Ball bearing swivels offer smooth rotation, minimizing line twists and improving overall rig efficiency.

Can I use artificial baits with a 3 way swivel rig?
Yes, a 3 way swivel rig is compatible with both natural and artificial baits, making it versatile for different fishing situations.

Where can I buy 3 way swivels?
You can find 3 way swivels at various retailers, including sportfishingbuddy.com, reelrapture.com, tacklewarehouse.com, norrik.com, and basspro.com.