Does anyone know the use of the rubberband run through the sucker's nose (by use of baiting needle) and how to set it up? I don't have Herbie Quick Strikes around here (I don't like purchasing by catalog either, I watch my nickels)and I'd like to make my own. Thanks.

The rubber band is one of the ways this rig keeps the sucker on. When the band is in the nasal passage, the loops on either end are twisted to make it tight, then clipped to the main snap which is also attached to the hook that is stretched out towards the dorsal fin. Upon hookset, the rubberband breaks and the sucker is released so it doesn't come into play when you're trying to drive the hook into the musky.
Innovative Sport Group makes the Herbie Rig. One other one to try is the Maina Lift Off Rig.
Rob