CONTENDERCHRIS, normally in the harpoons used for swords the tip detaches from the harpoon handle once you stick the fish. I don't know how your set up would work with the extra weight if the fish decides to run unles you stone it with the shot.
Guys do a search there is a lot of info on this on this site. i have asked this question before when I started to get into swordfishing. I asked the same question because i don't like the idea of a poly ball. Someone suggested that it is better not to have too much rope if you are going to attach the end of the rope to the cleat. This make sense because you don't want the fish to gain speed after is harpooned. My harpoon has a 30' rope and i cleated to the boat. hope this helps