Big Game Fishing Crimps Crimpers and Crimping Techniques

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Instructor: RJ Boyle
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Learn essential crimping techniques for big game terminal tackle. This video covers crimp sleeve selection for mono and wire leaders, proper compression methods with compound and plier-style crimpers, tool maintenance, and preventing connection failures when fighting marlin, tuna, and wahoo.

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Big Game Fishing Crimps, Crimpers, and Crimping Techniques

Crimping failures lose more big fish than most anglers realize. A poorly executed crimp creates a weak point in your terminal tackle that fails under pressure from large pelagic species like marlin, tuna, and wahoo. Understanding which crimps to use, how to execute proper crimping technique, and when crimping tools require maintenance separates anglers who consistently land fish from those who experience inexplicable break-offs during critical moments.

Why Do Crimps Fail During Big Game Fishing?

Crimp failures occur when compression is insufficient, excessive, or uneven across the sleeve. Under-crimped sleeves allow wire to slip under load. Over-crimped sleeves fracture the wire strands or crack the sleeve itself. Both scenarios create catastrophic failure points when fighting fish that generate sudden directional changes and sustained pressure. The problem intensifies with larger diameter wire and heavier crimps where proper tool selection and technique become non-negotiable.

Environmental factors accelerate crimp degradation. Saltwater corrosion weakens aluminum and copper sleeves over time. Leaders that see repeated use or extended exposure to sun and salt require inspection before each trip. Crimps showing discoloration, deformation, or any separation from the wire should be replaced immediately.

What Crimping Tools Work Best for Different Big Game Applications?

Crimping tool selection depends on crimp size, wire diameter, and the species you're targeting. Compound leverage crimpers generate the compression needed for heavy mono and wire leaders used in marlin and tuna fishing. Plier-style crimpers work for lighter applications but lack the mechanical advantage required for consistently strong crimps on heavy tackle. Single-crimp tools create uniform compression across the entire sleeve. Double-crimp tools require proper spacing and equal pressure on both crimps to prevent weak spots.

Tool maintenance directly affects crimp quality. Crimping jaws wear over time, creating uneven pressure distribution. Inspect jaws regularly for smooth, parallel surfaces. Damaged or pitted jaws require replacement, not attempts at field repair.

Which Crimp Sleeves Should You Use for Specific Fishing Scenarios?

Aluminum sleeves work well for mono and fluorocarbon leaders where flexibility matters. Copper sleeves provide superior holding strength for wire leaders targeting toothy species. Single barrel crimps suit most applications. Double barrel crimps offer redundancy for maximum-strength connections on heavy leaders, but only when both barrels receive equal compression.

This video demonstrates proper crimping technique, tool selection for different tackle requirements, and the inspection methods that prevent rigging failures during big game fishing situations.

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Jeffery Babcock 10.24.2018

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