What is this?

[jackiekennedyfishingguide.com]

A friend dropped these off today. I have no idea what they are or what they can possibly used for. About 2 3/8" long and the lead is necked down in order for the spring to fit on it. The lead is nearly 1/2" in diameter. The one end is attached to the rod with the loop at the top and the top lead slides down on the rod.
I'm very curious to know what this may be.

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[FishingTxAdmin]

I did some googling and the best I can come up with is something called a Burley/Berley Cage. Looks like you put some it inline and fill it with some stuff called burley, like some kind of bait. But honestly, it looks a bit small for that, but maybe something similar. The spring is just a way to hold the attractant bait without it being actually on the hook.

Also looks like this size could be called a spring feeder. Same concept, just smaller. https://www.google.com/search?q=lead+spring+weights+fishing&safe=active&biw=1920&bih=1070&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAmoVChMIqa-r9OL-xwIVQVU-Ch2wAwii#safe=active&tbm=isch&q=fishing+spring+feeder


This one on eBay looks pretty close
http://www.ebay.com/itm/5x-Metal-Spring-Fishing-FEEDER-25g-0-88oz-Groundbait-Coarse-Carp-Fishing-Tackle-/261830291701




Beyond that, I've got nada.

[jackiekennedyfishingguide.com]

Yes, that is very similar and I guess that is what it is for. It is a new one on me.

[Gentleben]

Dang super dor kaint so dorky after all lol!!!!!!!!!!!!

[ETexJohney]

That funny looking thing with a spring could be something to rap around a fishing line that has a hook on the end that's stuck on a log or twig. Maybe you use another rod and reel with line and bump your hook to get it free.
That's just my guess.
ETex Johney

[GILBERT G]

With the spring in the middle I thought its design for a soft landing...lol

[Lou The Fisherman]

Jeez, with my years on this earth i have never seen a sinker (weight) with a spring in the middle.
Never seen this "thing" before.

[GILBERT G]

Mr lou whos been around longer you or the Alligator...lol