for those that use snaps on cranks...

[jomatty]

i know many folks consider this to be an absolutely terrible idea but ive found that when i have less rods than i would like and do not know exactly what bait i want to throw for the day that they are a good option.  i like the action better than when tied normally although if i know exactly what i want to throw for the day i will often tie a rapala knot.

what i am considering doing however is removing the split rings from all my cranks and always using a snap.  one of my favorite search baits is the speed trap and that is how it is sold out of the package.

do you guys that use snaps take the split rings off?  how about on lipless cranks and traps?  in my experimenting the action looks good and removing the split rings takes away a lot of my issue with using snaps as a small snap is not much larger than a split ring so it is not that visible.

anyhow yes or no on removinn the split rings?

[=Matt 5.0=]

I started using snaps this season, as opposed to snap swivels. I only use them on hardbaits. So far, on a lipless crank like my Traps, and Cordell Super Spots, I haven't noticed any adverse affects. Once in a while I will notice the Cordells will run sideways, but not the Traps. I can't say for sure if ths is the snap, or the bait.  I have caught a few fish already in the two weeks we have been out. So far so good I guess!

[LONGEARS]

I have used snaps for years.The snap replaces different types of loop knots which allow the lure to wobble to full effect,Therefore there is no need to remove the split rings.Just run them like they are designed

[Bankbeater]

I leave the split rings on with the snaps.  I think it actually give the crankbaits a little more action.

[Brad_Coovert]

I've been using the snaps for years on crankbaits.  Taking off the split rings will not hurt the action.

Brad

[MALTESE FALCON]

I leave the split ring on. However, I have one Rat-L-Trap that swims on it's side if I use a snap on the split ring. Tying directly to the split ring it swims fine........go figure.

Falcon

[Guest the_muddy_man]

I use snaps for years NOT SNAP SWIVELS  I also leave the spilt rings on the lures. I have found that using different size snaps can effect the action and the wobble of the cranks and it helps to have the lure do different things at different times!

[Guest avid]

I pride myself on learning and tying the best knot for the situation.

That being said, I'm getting lazy and so use snaps on my crankbait rod.

I usually remove the split ring.  I figure the less extra stuff the better.

But I really don't think it matters.

[.ghoti.]

I quit using any kind of snap a couple of years ago. I use light line, either 8 or 10, for cranking, so I re-tie often. Adding a snap doesn't save me much time, so I figure why add another potential failure point.

I have started using oval split rings. When I find a crank that catches fish ( not all of them do ) I put an oval ring on it. One of my goals for this year is to put down the senko and ika and use a crank more often. I hope to have my selection of cranks weeded out by the end of the season. Probably won't all get done; I have about two gazillion cranks, but I'll make a good start on it. I'd like to end up with a couple of boxes of cranks that I know catch fish.

Cheers,

GK

[BIG M]

split rings off and snap on.

[Marty]

I also leave the split rings on.

[bassmaster8100]

i never use snaps, Ive had some break on me after I had a fish hooked besides it only takes an extra few seconds to tie directly to the lure.

[llPa1nll]

I personally leave the split rings on and I use a product called Norman Speed Clips. I however only use this with my lipped diving Crankbaits. You can check out the Norman speed clips here.

[Bud]

I use Duolock snap swivel and leave the split rings on.  I have never had a fish break a Duolock.

[flyphisher #]

I use duolocks w/ the split ring....Sometimes I will even hook to the lure to give it a different action. Only had one snap break. That was after catching 25 keepers in 2 hours off of riprap and it broke from me trying to bend it back.

[ohiobassmaster93]

i always remove the split ring on my snaps. sometimes when i see them i buy the ones without the splitring on them at first.

[jomatty]

thanks guys, the split rings are coming off, although its clear they dont need to.  i just like as little excess stuff on the bait as possible so...