RE: Question for Josh???
you CAN..however, for best results, I seem to get more bites from quality fish if the weight and the bait are independant. As in the line can slide through the sinker and therefore the fish wont feel the "resistance". One secret is use is to buy the #3 split rings for 20 for $1 and use those instead of swivels. I actually catch most of my bass with a 3 or 4' leader. I use at LEAST 16 lb leader - I break too many fish off using 12 or 14. Dont be afraid to throw a 10 or 12" plastic on there.. You'd be surprised how many 1 - 2 lbers will bite it and get hooked!
Good luck!