Tying on lures

[bkwapisz]

I noticed that most fishermen tie lures on with various knots. Is there any reason to NOT use a snap swivel on these? I'd assume so since it's easier to use a swivel than to keep retying lures. Anyone have any thoughts on this?

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Tying on lures

They can affect the action of the lures.

 

[gonefishie]

Re: Tying on lures

what he said^^^plus one needs to retie often anyway. I can tie a palomar knot in the dark, not so sure about a snap swivel though.

 

[Mark_VTfisherman]

Re: Tying on lures

Depends on the lure and what you are fishing for. Many of my rods have a really small swivel with a rod-length of leader to either a fly snap or a #1 crosslock. Salmon spoons work well with the crosslock- the swivel lets me use other spoons or spinners still. Original Rapalas: I like the snap swivel right on its beak if I am changing lures a lot, but I am beginning to think that a simple fly snap or even a crosslock (both without a connected swivel) might catch more fish in certain circumstances.

I think the snap swivel acts like a clicker and adds an element of sound attraction. But that is my opinion...

 

[Bass Tracker TX17]

Re: Tying on lures

I have always used a snap swivel. Even on my ultralight rod. Yes i do change lures a lot and i use it also for line twist. I found (for me) the line is more forgiving on and off the reel. I use a Palomar knot and retie every so often. I fish LMB and Bluegill.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Tying on lures

Unless a snap swivel is load rated, which they are not, it's not coming on the boat. Seen too many of them pulled open.

We use ball bearing coastlocks if absolutely necessary for the presentation. Otherwise baits are tied directing for the leader. One less thing to fail.

 

[bkwapisz]

Re: Tying on lures

Well my kid changes lures quite often and it's getting to be a PITA to fish when I'm constantly retying. I want him to enjoy himself, and I've heard the old adage "The only thing you don't do when fishing with kids is to fish" but I'd like to enjoy myself a little as well. I think he's getting a swivel. It's not like we're catching Marlin here...

 

[JB]

Re: Tying on lures

Depends on several things.

Some lures have different action with even a small ball bearing crosslock or coastlock and I will not use any other snap swivel. Those I tie on with a uniknot. Small floating Rapalas always get tied on.

I use a fly snap on most small, light lures.

Anything that requires a bite-proof leader (big, heavy snake and musky lures) gets one made up from titanium multistrand with a coastlock snap swivel backed up with about 50# shock leader.

Bottom line: NEVER use any snap other than a crosslock or coastlock and always use a BB swivel if you can. Like dingbat says, the others open too easily.

 

[LongLine]

Re: Tying on lures

Use a locking snap swivel on all spoons. Make sure it is round so it won't interfere with the spoons action. You can tie plugs direct but check the plugs action. With a tight knot, you can ruin the action.

Tom B.
(LongLine)

 

[scipper77]

Re: Tying on lures

Snap swivels are fine to use but it is better to tie on directly. A snap swivel will not prevent you from catching fish. I will use a swivel to change baits if I don't know what's working and after I start to have success I will tie directly on.

When fishing, knowing what there hitting will get you the fish, but fine tuning your presentation will separate the men from the boys.

I have had many experiences lately where I go to the local pond, have some random fisherman tell me that I should be fishing with some other technique and then proceed to catch 4 or 5 bass while he is trying to act like he isn't watching me pull them in. Feels great when that happens.

 

[Socal Pat]

Re: Tying on lures

IMO swivels are best for two applications. Trolling and anytime you throw a lure with a spinning reel. I don't use one with a baitcaster.

 

[bkwapisz]

Re: Tying on lures

Great advice here. Thanks for all the input. I think I'm going to do as scripper advised and start off with one then once I see what works tie on.