Tie Direct or Quick Snap?

[Chris Barlage]

when using cranks, do you like to tie direct to them or use a quick snap or does it really not matter. I read the back of the box of some and it says that unless you tie direct it will alter action. I find myself using a quick snap if I am trolling a crank but tie direct when pitching and retrieving.

[Hawg]

You're supposed to use a loop knot. I've never cared enough to master it but it does make a difference.

[solbes]

I direct tie jigs. And use a very small Duolock snap (no swivel) for most cranks. I remove most of the line tie split rings as well as those are best used when tying direct. Any crank bait bills that have recessed tie points, I leave the split rings on.

[Slabasaurus]

I always used the loop knots when using cranks, it did seem to me that a snap would alter the action. Now that I've switched over to fly fishin, if I'm using a streamer or anything resembling a baitfish, I use a loop knot.

I tie the Non Slip Mono Loop, or Kreh Loop.

For those unfamiliar with how to tie one... here's a link with instructions.

How to tie Non Slip Mono Loop

[Alagnak]

I always used the loop knots when using cranks, it did seem to me that a snap would alter the action. Now that I've switched over to fly fishin, if I'm using a streamer or anything resembling a baitfish, I use a loop knot.

I tie the Non Slip Mono Loop, or Kreh Loop.

For those unfamiliar with how to tie one... here's a link with instructions.

How to tie Non Slip Mono Loop

Although......some manufacturers like Luhr Jensen send the crankbait with a snap on it to make sure you use it to give it the best action.

[kfk]

You don't need mono loops and snaps are probably better.

This is directly from Rapalas HSOforum:

Duo-Lock Snaps provide a fast and easy method for changing lures while not inhibiting lure action at all. In fact, the use of Duo-Lock Snaps will assure a centered pull point on the lure, maximizing action.

[Hawg]

..

[20lbSloughShark]

I mostly use bigger cranks, and I use a duolock snap. If I was going to use a smaller crank for walleye I would tie directly to the split ring. I never trusted the rapala knot.

[EBass]

I use a small snap. I take off the "O" ring and use a snap.

[dan z]

I use cross locks 90% of time now. I used to tie direct and lost several lures as the line slips through the split rings on some cranks or jerk baits.

[Raider4ever]

I use the things that look like the bottom half of a swivel. Love them for cranks and walk-the-dogs.

[h8go4s]

I use the things that look like the bottom half of a swivel. Love them for cranks and walk-the-dogs.

Huh? Which is the bottom half of a swivel?

[vman11]

Pretty sure he meant the snap, which is the bottom half of the snap swivel:

I haven't tied directly to a Rapala in years and feel it hasn't impeded my fish catching rates. I tie to a snap and connect that to the o-ring. Makes it easy to try different sizes and colors with little effort.

[Northlander]

I use a very small cross lock snap swivel. I have never had it effect the bite.

[minky]

But on the right day, tieing direct can make all the difference.

[Stick in Mud]

Snap for me. I find that I get lazy if I'm tying direct because I'm less likely to change lures.

[mainbutter]

I'm a quick knot tier, I tie direct to everything that isn't a spoon or inline spinner.

[RuKiddingMe]

I use loop knots probably just as much a snaps, no real reason for the decision to either, mostly either a time issue or just a matter of what is already setup.

On a side note I really like to use loops knots (bigger longer ones - usually 15-18") when attaching my leaders for musky fishing, I'll leave the tag a little longer also - I do this because when night fishing with a dark lure and you can't see it very well the tag and knot come through the guide and you can feel it real well indicating the time to start a figure 8.

[Mike_Bennewitz]

It depends on a few factors for me if I will use a snap or tie direct.

I use a small Duolock snap for when I target Walleyes and other fish that rarely exceed 10 pounds. But I don't trust them in lakes where there are Muskie or a healthy population of Pike over 10-12 pounds. The speed and strength of those fish have straightened Duolock snaps on me, so I always use a Coastlock style snap with the swivel cut off in those waters. If a fish pulls that wire it will just cinch down to the attachment point.

The only time I tie direct is if the fish are finicky. I put a swivel between my mainline and a 3' fluorocarbon leader which I tie to my lures when Trout fishing or other picky species. I also try to keep hardware to a minimum. In my opinion the more gear on your rig, the more chances for one of those pieces of gear to fail you.

[otterman91105]

I have always used the snap lock type and have not had a problem getting fish. I might have to try the direct tie once to see if it changes how many fish i get.

[paceman]

I tie direct.

[CANOPY SAM]

Been using the old loop knot with crankbaits for 30+ years myself.

The only time I ever "might" use a quick snap is ice fishing with a power braid.

Otherwise, particularly when using monofilament line, I want to be re-tieing knots from time to time due to abrasion and fraying of the line.

I'd much rather re-tie a knot a half dozen times per day, then lose a good fish from line abrasion.