The most common split ring found on lures is a round circle and has an open
action in that the "split" is obvious or pronounced. The sharp edge of the
split can fray/cut your line/knot causing you to lose not just a fish but
the lure itself as well. When tying onto the ring always make sure your knot
is away from the opening, preferrably on the opposite side of the ring.
Periodically check the lure to ensure the knot remains away from the split
opening.

Some lures, particularly more expensive ones, come with a split ring shaped
more like an oval than a circle. The split or opening is usually on a long
side and makes it easier to tie on away from the sharp edge. But, still
check your knot often.
Most anglers will not tie on a swivel or snap to end of their line and
attach that to a split ring. Ever seen baitfish wearing braces? I haven't.
Some anglers will use a small quick attach gadget on the end of their line,
but they also remove the split ring. Again, baitfish don't wear braces.

Depending upon lure, line, rod, reel, etc. some anglers will attach a small
barrel swivel to their line then add a leader of 10-16" that they tie to the
lure. This prevents line twist from affecting action and the distance from
the lure pretty much disguises the presence of the swivel.

The best place to see/learn the action of your lure(s) is in a swimming pool
( an unoccupied pool would be best). You can see clearly what the lure does
as you try various rings, knots, quick attachments, etc. However, two
cautions must be considered- 1. Pool liners cost more than hooks (Don't snag
the bottom!!) and 2. Chlorine tastes bad, to humans and fish. (Wash your
lure well in plain water afterwards).

Now having said all that, on to your real question. Attaching a swivel to
the split ring puts a lot of metal in the lure's face which can possibly
turn off the fish. It may or may not affect the action. Sometimes a subtle
change can be all it takes to either get a bite or turn off a fish. I prefer
to keep the amount of metal in the bait's face to a minimum.

One of the things I like about fishing (especially bass fishing) is that you
can experiment in so many ways with what you have. Many of the baits taken
for granted today came from experiments tried in the past. Take a day on the
lake and experiment with various ways to tie on and present your lure. If
one way works and another doesn't, then stick with what works, but when that
no longer works, try something else.

It's 19 degrees outside right now and all this rambling about lures is
making me want to go fishing, so I'd better stop before I catch pneumonia.



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Shelby Foles, Realtor
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Foreclosure Specialist; General Sales and Listings
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"Ed Sievers" wrote in message
...
I am real new to bass fishing and I read a great thread for newbies (in
the rofb archives) re the pros and cons of using snap swivels, barrel
swivels, 2 to 3 ft leaders with a swivel, etc. The opinions were varied
but no one recommeded attaching a swivel of any kind at the lure. However,
none of the guys who posted in the thread addressed the split ring that
often comes with a new lure; e.g. a crankbait. Should I attach my line to
the split ring for the best/correct action whenever the manufacturer
provides one? I recall that some really good fishermen have advised me
that when trout fishing with a spoon, to always tie the line directly to
the spoon for best lure action.

TIA
Ed Sievers (aka "Old Phart")