Split rings for lures

[NormC]

Some lures have split rings through the eye when you buy them. Others do not.

Should I use the lures as bought, or add a split ring to them all

Where the eye on the lure has sharp edves, it is pretty clear that I should add a split ring, but what about others?

If I add rings, do I go as small as possible, ie as close as possible to the breaking strain of my leader, or should I go heavier to ensure they last as long as the lure?

Thanks

Norm C

[Roo]

good question :-? :-/
I'd not even thought about it really. I just put on a split ring to match the rings on the trebles. No point upgrading trebles and split rings at the business end and not at the tow point, But as for if you need one there at all......... :o :o I dunno but I'm interested to find out.

roo.

[4x4frog]

I'd fit a ring to all lures if possible.
I hadn't actually looked at which types had rings and which didn't :-?

I have a couple of bags of various size split rings in my 'at home' supplies. I check the rings and eyes of lures when I buy them and replace any that don't look up to the quality of the ines I have on hand. I also most times add a swivel to the split as I find it easier to tie the lure on this way. When I tested a few lures for swim/action in the pool I found that when fitted with a swivel a lure most times swam/moved better. Just my opinion though.

[NormC]

Now that is interesting 4x4. I avoid using swivels with lures. But only because I've read on a number of occasions that you should not use them as they can disrupt the lure action. For example, if I ever use snaps with my lures, I use snaps without a swivel.

I'll be interested in othe ideas on this. I'm more than prepared to try swivels with my lures. I just thought it was not a good idea.

Norm C

[TinarooTriumph]

You won't see any Snaps, or Snap Swivels in my Tackle Box thats for sure. Trust my loop knots and leader over a Snap that takes the action out of your lure, and could possibly even open up. I've used a few snaps and snap swivels before and they just ruin the action of your lure - I don't care what others say Im staying right away from em'!.

When I replace, or add my split rings on the tow point, I always match them to the recomended breaking strain, which should be stated on the back of the packet... e.g. 50lb ring for 50lb leader. That goes for the Treble or Double eye's aswell.

[4x4frog]

Happy to remove the swivels, just looked like they were swimming better. maybe just my wishful thinking?
I will find time soon and do another check maybe.
Still it's good to get all views.
Given you mentioned a knot, what knot is best??

[TinarooTriumph]

They might have been swimming better mate, might have been the particular design of your swivel you were using... there's plenty of models out there... just don't think they will be able to pull their capacity without busting open.

There's quite a few good lure knot's... Perfection loop, Lefty Kreh Loop, Uni Loop. Check out the Video Steve made for AusFish regarding the Perfection Loop... go to Hints & Tips at the top of the screen and then to animated knots.

[4x4frog]

They might have been swimming better mate, might have been the particular design of your swivel you were using... there's plenty of models out there... just don't think they will be able to pull their capacity without busting open.

There's quite a few good lure knot's... Perfection loop, Lefty Kreh Loop, Uni Loop. Check out the Video Steve made for AusFish regarding the Perfection Loop... go to Hints & Tips at the top of the screen and then to animated knots.
Ah ha. I don't think I'd have aproblem around Brisbane with my land based luring and any being stretched but I will keep it in mind; I never even though about the swivel being the weakest link.
Will check the knots section too, thanks. I haven't done the full tour as yet so Ausfish still has some secrets for me.

[NormC]

The perfection loop is a great knot, but I have trouble tying it out on the water, probably due to clumsy fingers and my need for reading glasses these days.

I find the Rapala Knot easier to tie and (so far) just as good. This link shows the knot.

http://www.fishsa.com/kntiesra.php

[Stumpy-USA2]

Every lure I have has a split ring on it. I like the ones from Excalibur that are big on one end and narrow on the other. Just by changing which end of the ring you tie to you can change the action of the lure slightly. The big end allows for a wider wobble and the narrow end give a tighter wobble. This helps match the action of the baitfish from summer to winter. As far a why to use one at all, tying directly to the lures loop will hinder the action a little by not allowing it to wobble as freely as it should. Using a split ring creates a metal on metal joint that will not hinder the baits action. You might want to look at the "Ultimate Lure Saver" split rings they are made of titanium and have a # test weight that they will open up at. You use them on your trebles so you can use a heavier # test line and if you get hung up just pull the lure free only losing the trebles. I have used them and the only down side is the price. They cost about $10 U.S. for 6 of them. With the number of baits most of us have it is impractical to use them on every one, but might be worth putting on the expensive ones like Lucky Craft's, or Jackal's.

[last_cast]

Norm,

I like to avoid rings if it is possible (obviously not for bib towed lures). Test how the lures swims with its original split and then try it with just a loop knot. If it swims OK, great, do not worry about a split ring. If not, upgrade to the same split ring you use on your trebles, preferably a "smoother" type split ring like an owner or Hyper Ring GT. I find the Rod Harrison (or Dan Byford) variation of the Lefty Kreh loop knot the easiest to tie and the strongest I have used. It is almost the same as the Rapala knot above except you do knot go through the overhand loop the first time, you just go straight into wrapping around your standing line.

[last_cast]

Here is the loop knot I was talking about. Originally got this from Rod Harrisons Web site (I think), but it is not posted there any more.