The Complete Guide to Snaps & Swivels - Use Them Like A PRO!

Summary

This video provides valuable insights on using fishing snaps and swivels effectively. The speaker emphasizes using these tools with purpose, favoring minimalism, and matching the hardware to the fishing situation. Key points include investing in high-quality brands, tying directly when possible, and avoiding unnecessary hardware to improve bait presentation. The goal is to enhance fishing success by selecting the right gear and minimizing drag or interference, ultimately leading to better fish catches. The speaker encourages anglers to avoid common mistakes and refine their fishing technique with these practical tips.

Takeaways

• 😀 Use snaps and swivels purposefully, not just out of habit, to improve your fishing results.
• 😀 Minimize the size and footprint of hardware to ensure better lure action and avoid disturbing the water.
• 😀 Always match the type of hardware to the situation—don’t overuse snap swivels when a simple snap will suffice.
• 😀 Invest in high-quality snaps and swivels to avoid losing fish and ensure durability.
• 😀 If in doubt, tie directly to the line to reduce hardware and improve bait presentation.
• 😀 Higher quality tackle allows for smaller hardware with higher break strength, which is ideal for maintaining a low profile.
• 😀 Avoid using snap swivels in situations where you could use a snap alone, especially with slow-moving baits.
• 😀 Snaps and swivels are most useful in specific situations like trolling or when line twist could be an issue.
• 😀 Pay attention to the break strength listed on hardware packaging, as this ensures reliability and strength for big fish.
• 😀 If the package doesn’t provide break strength details, look for another brand that lists it to ensure proper gear selection.
• 😀 Consider the fishing presentation carefully—some rigs perform better without any hardware at all, particularly with jigs or worms.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of using snaps and swivels in fishing?

Snaps and swivels are used to make changing lures or hooks easier and to prevent line twists, especially in trolling presentations.

Why should you avoid using snap swivels on everything?

Snap swivels add unnecessary weight and hardware to your tackle setup, which can negatively impact the action of the lure and reduce the chances of a fish bite.

What does the term 'minimalism' refer to in the context of fishing tackle?

Minimalism refers to using the smallest and least amount of hardware necessary to accomplish the task, reducing the footprint of your tackle setup to maintain better lure action.

What is the benefit of using smaller snaps and swivels with a higher brake strength?

Smaller snaps and swivels with higher brake strength allow for better performance without adding unnecessary bulk, leading to improved presentation and greater efficiency.

How do you determine the right size and type of snap or swivel for your setup?

The right size and type of snap or swivel depend on your fishing method and the kind of bait or presentation you're using. Match the hardware to your specific needs, such as using a snap alone for certain baits or adding a swivel for line twist prevention.

Why is it important to check the brake strength of a snap or swivel?

The brake strength ensures that the snap or swivel can handle the force from the fish without breaking. If the brake strength is not listed, it's advised to find a product that clearly states this detail.

What happens if you use a snap swivel when a snap would suffice?

Using a snap swivel when only a snap is needed adds extra weight and hardware, which can make the presentation less natural and decrease the chances of catching fish.

What type of fishing situation would require a swivel?

A swivel is necessary when you want to prevent line twisting, especially in trolling presentations where the line is continuously moving through the water.

What is the risk of using low-quality snaps and swivels?

Low-quality snaps and swivels can break under pressure, leading to lost fish and potentially ruining your fishing experience. Investing in high-quality brands ensures better durability and reliability.

When is it better to tie directly without using a snap or swivel?

It’s better to tie directly when using slow-moving baits like jigs or worms, as this provides a cleaner presentation and minimizes hardware that could negatively affect the bait's action.