Replacing Stay Lock with split ring for flouro leaders

[Ranckenstuff]

Is it okay to remove the snap, replace with a split ring in the loop and connect directly to bait with only one split ring?

[Shawn Kellett]

You can but why would you? Most split rings start to open up after 1/2 dozen uses. You also need to always have a split ring tool on you, they suck to change baits in the waves, and I've seen split rings start to fray leaders.

Aside from one lot a few years ago, stayloks have been pretty bullet proof in my experience. They're not cheap, but neither are my baits, rods, boat, reels, electronics...

[Esox_Magnum]

I to prefer the Stay Locks, have had a couple break while changing baits but so far never on a fish and the couple that broke were more my fault than anything for not taking the 2 seconds to swap out when I knew they were getting weak. Kinda like when your in that prime time and just had a monster follow and seeing that little fray in the line and know you need to retie but also know you only have a few cast window to make things work, do you take the time to retie and maybe miss the window or cast and hope?