What size split rings for a 5/8oz jerkbait?

[amishnightmare88]

I have some Smithwick jerkbaits and i want to add a little weight to them to make them suspend like i want them. I watched a vlog on YouTube about adding split rings to them. I have never done that before. i was a buy it and use it type guy until i used my friends in ground pool to see how different baits respond. Like i said, i have never added split rings or changed the hooks on any my lures. What are is the size split rings i need to make a 5/8 jerkbait work more "natural"? Thanks

[CJ]

How do you want them to suspend? I know that it takes half of a suspend strip behind the front hook to get a rogue to truely suspend at 50 degree surface temp. Suspend strips are made of lead and even half of one is going to be heavier than most any split ring. I used to use 2/3 of a suspend strip cause I liked a slow sink. I would put it right in front of the middle hook. That made it suspend level. Some guys prefer them to suspend nose down however.

[A-Jay]

When it come to suspending baits, adding / subtracting weight by switching out hook & / or split rings usually entails some trial & error.

I'll admit that I'm not exactly sure what is meant by making a jerkbait work more natural.  But will add that depending on the bait and what you're trying to accomplish, split ring modification often results in a fairly minor altering of a baits action.   That maybe what you're looking for.  Up scaling or down sizing treble hooks will usually result in more of a change in action than doing the split rings alone.  Again, it depends on the bait and what you're looking for.

 A couple more factors to take into consideration and that will also affect the way the bait works is the water temperature and the line you choose to use. 

As mentioned above Suspend dots & strips are another way to tune a baits action when you're looking for something other than the "out of the box" presentation.

As for the hook size on a Smithwick -  Perfect 10 uses #4 trebles , Elite 8 & standard Rogues use #4 trebles.

Split rings, not 100% sure but I believe it's size #2 and #3 respectively.

A-Jay

[amishnightmare88]

AWSOME! Thanks AJ! 

[bassin is addicting]

On my Rogue's I use suspend dots (trial and error) as to what you want it to do. 

Size 3 split rings.

I would recommend that you definitely swap out hooks. I use Gamakatsu #4's.

They are great hooks and won't break your bank account. 

[amishnightmare88]

Thank ya sir! Have to get the pool uncovered again to test them out so I can see what's going on.