In my last column I explained the use of leadcore line to present trolled lures to early season walleyes. There are two other options that achieve this same end: inline snap weights and keel-trolling sinkers.

Incline snap weights can be used with standard lines, such as monofilament or no-stretch superline. I’ve had success using inline snap weights with 14-pound test Stren Superbraid.

Offshore Tackle makes a full line of snap weights offered in a kit that contains sinkers from one-half up to 3 ounces. I’ve found the 2-ounce models to be the best for achieving depths of nearly 25 feet.

Snap weights employ an oblong sinker attached by means of a split ring to a spring-loaded clip. The clip features two pads, one of which is outfitted with a tiny pin. To attach the weight to the line, you squeeze the clip open and place the line within the pads, making sure it is behind the pin. The spring tension secures it to the line.

The sinker is “snapped” onto the line a set distance from the lure. Fifty feet is a good place to begin. This is where line counter reels are a must.

Feed the lure out 50 feet, snap on the weight, then let it back the necessary distance to allow the lure to tick bottom. Keep some tension on the spool as the line pays out so the sinker doesn’t free fall to the bottom.

The same process described for achieving the correct depth with leadcore also is used with snap weights. I’ve found a combination of 50-50 — 50 feet to the weight, then 50 feet out — will get a minnow bait down in the 22-foot range when trolling at 1.5 mph.

Like leadcore line, lines rigged with snap weights are speed sensitive. The reaction time is faster with snap weights. The lures come up quicker when the speed is increased and drop faster when the boat slows.

One disadvantage of a snap weight is that it must be removed when you wind in a fish. Keep tension on the line as the sinker is removed or fish can be lost.

A final lead option is a keel-trolling sinker. These are tied between the leader and the running line. One- to 3-ounce weights should be carried to achieve running depths ranging from 12 to 30 feet.

I’ve just begun experimenting with keel sinkers, and haven’t had the success I’ve had with leadcore line and snap weights. But some anglers have found them to be quite productive in many trolling situations.

It’s best not to mix different systems, i.e. don’t fish rods with leadcore while fishing ones with snap weights. The lines track differently when making turns and some nasty tangles can occur. Even when using the same system, make very wide turns to prevent snarls that try the best of patience.

A few final thoughts on trolling with these systems:

• Superlines and leadcore have little to no stretch, thus holes can be worn in a walleye’s mouth as the fish is brought in.

• Wind the fish in slowly and evenly. Don’t pump the rod or the fish can drop off with any slack.

• Landing nets with extendible handles are a big plus for netting fish as they come to the surface near the boat. This keeps the fish away from other lines that might be in the water.

Jeff Knapp is an outdoors writer for the Butler Eagle.