Swingers, hangers
What are Swingers and Hangers and what role do they have?
Swingers and hangers are two systems for indicating the tension or release of the fishing line, thus indicating fish bites, systems that significantly improve the detection of the indicator. Essentially, we are talking about a weight attached to the main line either through a thin rod (rigid or flexible) or through a chain, placed between the reel and the indicator.
There are three distinct categories: swingers for rigid rods, hangers for chains, and the flexible rod known as a quiver. Since both the quiver and the swinger have rods, we can refer to them collectively as swingers.
Functionally, there are a few differences between hangers and swingers. The hanger can be used both when fishing with tight lines and with slack lines, while the swinger is inherently more suitable for fishing with tight lines.
How do swingers and hangers work?
Both swingers and hangers for fishing are equipped with a modern line attachment system, making them usable with various types of fishing lines. In the case of swingers, the weight is adjustable and slides along the swinger rod. The adjustment is made according to the distance we are fishing at, the sensitivity of the bite, etc. Swingers allow for line stabilization for the correct detection of carp bites, being especially ideal for fishing in strong wind conditions. The hanger can be used both when fishing with tight lines and with slack lines, while the swinger is inherently more suitable for fishing with tight lines.
When fish hook themselves and run, they can either move away from our position on the bank or, conversely, come towards us. If the hooked fish moves away, the swinger or hanger is lifted, and the bite is called a “run.” If the fish comes toward us, then the line slackens and the swinger or hanger lowers. The weight of the swinger or hanger helps keep the fishing line fixed to the sensor roller and signals this type of bite, known as a “drop.”
What do we choose: Swingers or Hangers?
Both are valid options, and choosing one system over the other is a matter of personal preference. However, if you are hesitating between one system or another, what can ease your choice is specifying the advantages of each system. If you are fishing at greater distances or in a fixed position, swingers may be more indicated. They have the advantage of being more stable and suitable in strong wind conditions, thus not prone to giving false alarms in wind, not sticking to the indicator when a fish takes the line, not falling to the ground when the support is very low, and not hitting the support when they detach from the line. Hangers are preferred for fishing on pegs or smaller rod pods when the distance between the indicator and reel is shorter. They are also preferred for finesse fishing or in situations where fish are cautious and a too-tight line might scare them away.