Abstract: This invention provides a method of providing a barrier coating over the surfaces of a plurality of sinkers (10), each having a line passageway (21) therethrough, and to sinkers (10) having a barrier coating (25, 27) over the exposed surfaces thereof including the line passageway (21). According to the invention, sinker bodies (11) are pressed from metal iron powder and immersed to paint the line passageway (21). The external surface of the body (11) is then cleaned so that the sinker may be handled leaving the passage coating (26) intact. The body is conveyed through successive spray stations at which opposite sides are painted and rolled over between painting stations for this purpose. Different barrier coatings such as epoxy coatings may be applied to the line passageway and the exterior surface.