That is the question!
Fishing from docks, piers, bridges and shoreline of all types the question of how much weight, if any, should be added to a live bait rig often comes up. The answer is not as simple as it would seem, many factors play into the decision. What is the target species, what type of bait, current and amount of light all play a role in the decision making process.
Target Species
The single most important factor in determining weather to free line a bait (no weight at all) or add a sinker is the target species. Species like Flounder or Black drum are almost exclusively bottom feeders and there should always be weight to get the bait to them. But some of the sportier fish like Snook, Redfish and Trout will often times attack bait that is higher in the water column.
Type of Bait
So types of bait require weight for the presentation to work. A piece of cut mullet or a chunk of lady fish almost always do better soaked on the bottom, but live bait will often times call for a free line presentation. Live mullet spend most of their time near the surface, and free lining them with a light wire hook will allow a much more natural presentation resulting in more hook ups.
Current
In areas with massive current it can be very difficult to get a natural presentation. If the current is so strong that a free lined bait just sits on top of the water fighting the current a small amount of weight should be added. If the current is lighter and the bait can fight the current well, free lining will often be the best option.
Amount of Light
When the sun is high and the temperatures are up fish tend to head form deeper water. Durring times of very high light a little weight is called for. Early in the morning and when the sun starts to cast longer shadows it is time to return to a free lined bait!
