I have a pole type retrieve that usually works in fairly shallow water - down
to about 15 feet.

I also made a chain type by hooking six inch pieces of light chain to a big
ring and attached a 3 ounce weight. The ring is tied to heavy cord. I put the
ring around the line and let it slide down to the plug. The chains hang the
hooks and you can pull it loose. That works when you hang up in old line on the
bottom - a pole often will not do that.
Ronnie

http://fishing.about.com