View Full Version : Attaching line to crankbaits
spooled
03-21-2002, 07:54 AM
I usually tie a Rapala knot to my crankbaits.(the knot a few inches from the eyelet) This seems to allow the lure to run more true. What do you fellas use when attaching cranks to your line? Thanks for any input.
spooled
03-21-2002, 08:01 AM
Or do you use snaps?
I use a very small cross-lock snap and a Palomar knot.
If you dont use your knot use a snap with the larger rounded end. (not snap/swivel).
DaCoder
03-21-2002, 09:11 AM
I use the Rapala knot with a small quick-change clip (not a swivel). About 2 feet up from the lure I tie in a barrel swivel to help reduce line twist.
Dutchman
03-21-2002, 01:12 PM
Ditto on the polamar knot and Duo-lock snaps, I prefer the #2. Best action from the bait, truer tracking, and easiest attachment when changing cranks...
" Fishing is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope "
Why a snap and not a snap swivel?
Marty
03-21-2002, 05:26 PM
I use a small duo-lock snap. J.P., a swivel isn't used because it could possibly affect the action of the lure and it isn't necessary because crankbaits don't twist on the retrieve like, say, an in-line spinner.
spooled
03-21-2002, 09:26 PM
Sir Dutchman, Thanks for your post. I checked out Cabelas catalog and the Duolock snaps come in 1/2" 5/8" and 3/4" legnths not #1,#2 and 3#. What size do you use? They also come in packs of 72. I guess I'll be set for a while. I like the quick change feature. I'm starting to learn that changing lure presentations can have a big impact on fishing productivity. Thanks
Fuzzy
03-21-2002, 09:33 PM
Ditto - high quality snaps
We use the 5/8ths inch size on Erie but if your after salmon I'd go the larger one. Good luck
WAeyes
03-22-2002, 06:09 AM
I use the 1/2" for shallow running small lipped baits, they are plenty adequate.
For deeper trolling baits with the larger lips you will want a bigger one, as ETT has stated.
DaCoder
03-22-2002, 07:48 AM
Exactly. That's why I have the barrel swivel tied in. Works great for switching between spinner rigs and cranks and not having to worry about the line twists. It may not be the "correct" way, but it works for me.
Marty
03-22-2002, 05:59 PM
>Exactly. That's why I have the barrel swivel tied in.
>Works great for switching between spinner rigs and cranks
>and not having to worry about the line twists. It may not
>be the "correct" way, but it works for me.
Good for you, DaCoder. I am also a big believer in doing what works for me, even though it's considered "incorrect." However, I'd be too embarassed to tell on a public forum what some of those things are!
Look-A-Like
03-22-2002, 06:54 PM
When using the snap locks do you remove the split ring and attach directly to the crank bait or leave it on? I started using snap locks last season but didn't remove the split ring.
WAeyes
03-22-2002, 08:08 PM
I have chosen to remove the split rings because I use a snap all the time. I think the split ring is mainly for people who want to tie direct to the lure without a snap.
Walleye Express
03-23-2002, 09:41 AM
A wet Palamar has no equal. Capt: Dan.
stewart
03-23-2002, 10:22 AM
What the capt. is hinting at is the relative weakness of loop knots...
Ristorapper
03-23-2002, 02:34 PM
I have for the past three years used the Norman lures speed clip. I have run into a few problems with them however. In cold weather or when you have wet hands they are very hard to open to change lures. I haven't had too many problems with them but find that the guys that use my equipment have difficulty opening them. So when I was at the tackle shop last week I picked up what I see used mostly by guys I have fished with and that is the Duolocks. They are generally larger in size than the norman speed clip thus easier to operate. I will however continue to use the Norman speed clip on my side of the boat however. I like them. When taking someone else along I should tie on a Duolock to the other line to better serve my partner I guess. Seems I am always helping them(wife or buddy) change the cranks when we do change. See the norman lures speed clip and others at:
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/index/index-display.jhtml?id=cat20293&navAction=jump&navCount=1&parentId=cat20176&parentType=subcategory
BW(ND)
Dutchman
03-23-2002, 07:19 PM
Different stores may package them and label them differently, I prefer the 5/8". They are easier for my fat fingers to handle. My local bait/tackle shop sizes them as 1#, 2# etc. I've never bought them bulk, but it would most likely be cheaper. Sorry for the confusion.
" Fishing is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope "
Jim Carroll
03-23-2002, 09:09 PM
Hi Risto- Most guys I know using Norman's remove their split rings. It makes them a lot easier to use. I'm with ETT, I use Duolocs #2 (5/8) for big plugs and #1 (1/2") for small plugs.
Daren
03-23-2002, 09:11 PM
Don't forget, if you use a snap you still have to rety from time to time to prevent breaking off the lure. Personally I preffer to tie directly to the lure. I normally tie directly to the lure myself as I feel it gives the best action. I believe that how you fight the fish will determine if you get the fish in more than the line strength determines this. Knot strength varies from the type of knot so depending on the knot you tie and the pound test line you have really decides how hard you can fight a fish.