Can I make a rotten bottom lead link with one of those pulley rigs or not..?
Yes, you can either buy rotten bottom links, that cost the earth, or there’s a far cheaper version I use.
Will have to go out to the fishing shed and get you a picture in a bit because it’s not the easiest to explain, although it’s very simple.
I’ll try and sort it in a bit.
Another option is what I use for close in wrasse fishing although it won’t cast too far or too hard.
30lb mainline direct to three way swivel, a 30 or 40lb hook trace on the stand off part of the swivel and 20lb line weight trace on the bottom part.
Just tie the weight direct to the 20lb and if you get snagged, that should snap first.
Obviously it’s not suited to power casting but if you’re lobbing it out up to 50 yards or so it’s no bother. Just check the 20lb length every cast and replace if it’s roughed up. I usually give it a good stretch in my hands and if it breaks, I have my answer, ie replace it.
Also worth using a relatively strong but springy hook that will bend out from snags with a steady pressure.
I’ll grab a picture of my pulley rig rotten bottom in a bit.
Oh, and rather than expensive weights, try and find something disposable, such as old spark plugs, large nuts, anything that’s around 4-5 ounces.
Pebbles in old tights was a traditional one. I’ve gathered pebbles and wrapped them in chicken wire pouches.
If the weight has rough edges like an old nut, I’ll tie a bit of thick mono around it and create a loop to attach to the rotten bottom, rather than try and tie the 20lb direct to it.