attaching crankbait to fishing line

[crankbait2009]

i have been noticing that some people use snaps and swivels to attach there crankbaits to their line.   at this moment i am tying the line straight to the crank.  besides the "time" it takes to swap out baits, what are the advantages?  is it better practice to use a swivel and snap rather than the straight tying method?

if it matters, i use 3/8-1oz crank baits.

[Micro]

You don't need the swivel.  Just the snap.

The advantage is quick lure changes.  The disadvantage is that, with some lures, the weight of the snap can make the lure sit funny in the water at rest.  For instance, a little crank make sit with a more nose-down attitude than a lure without the snap.  But that only happens with very light lures that I've noticed.  

I like Norman Speed Clips.  I like then because they are small, stainless steel, symetrical, and tend to pick up less gunk than Duolock snaps.  But they are harder to use than Duolocks.  If your fingers tips are cold, they are a pain (literally).  If I'm fishing water that doesn't have a lot os gunk in it, I'll use Duolocks because they are easier to use.  

[crankbait2009]

thanks Micro,

now what determines what pound test snap i get?  i see 20,30,40,60, 85 and 150 pound test snaps.

[.ghoti.]

San Diego Jam knot.

Does two things for you.

1. it tends to reduce lure changes. I've been guilty of swapping cranks way too often when using a snap.

2. you always have a fresh knot. When using snaps, it's very easy to keep using the same snap and knot. You need to re-tie every now and then.

[Redhed]

San Diego Jam knot.

Does two things for you.

1. it tends to reduce lure changes. I've been guilty of swapping cranks way too often when using a snap.

2. you always have a fresh knot. When using snaps, it's very easy to keep using the same snap and knot. You need to re-tie every now and then.

what is the big deal with the SD jam knot? it seems similar to the improved clinch knot. what is the difference and why is it ideal for cranks? just askin bc i dunno lol

[Marty]

I've been using size #1 duolock snaps for years. That size is rated for 20#. My line is never stronger than 15#. I always use a Palomar knot with no problems.

As far as avoiding the snap because it forces you to tie fresh knots, that may be necessary for some, but not all. Over the years I've trained myself to check my line frequently, regardless of whether there's a snap or not. Obviously, you have to do what works the best for you.

[lubina]

You don't need the swivel. Just the snap.

I do the same

[bmadd]

http://www.***.com/descpage-BCLSS.html

Use size 1.

[Sam]

Use a snap without the swivel.

Easiest method to change crankbaits.  

[shootermcbob]

I also use a snap. No swivel

[NBR]

Loop knot or a snap - no swivel. Personally I think the loop knot such as a King Sling is better than the snap but I'm to lazy to retie so I use a cross lock snap.

[PondHunter]

I tie directly with a loop knot or a uni-knot. The loop gives more action than tying tight with the uni-knot.  I don't even keep the split ring on them. The lakes I fish on are usually very clear, and when I took all of that hardware off the front, my catch rate went up alot.

I used to use all kinds of snaps and such when I was always worried that I had the wrong bait tied on.  

[J Francho]

Palomar > Duo-Loc > Crankbait.

[Crestliner2008]

Most crankbaits come with a split ring attached to their eye. I remove these and use a small snap instead. Some cranks run better with a metalic link like a small snap or the split ring supplied; as opposed to tying directly to the eye of the crank. If I'm using a snap (for quick change) then I remove the split ring always. Rarely have I ever tied to a split ring because knots are less reliable that way.

[strick9]

Norman Speed Clips no swivel.

[Bassn Blvd]

I NEVER use snaps.  How much time can you possibly save by using snaps anyway.  I guarantee I can change my lure and tie it on before you can change yours using a snap and begin the retrieve of your next cast.