Tie on poppers with a split ring or directly?

Question

Some poppers come with split rings but most do not. Do I get the best action by tying my line directly to the popper or via a split ring? I'm fishing for largemouth and stripers.

because most do not come with split rings, i have always just assumed that the manufacturer intended them to be tied directly. why else would all crankbaits come with split rings but most poppers do not?

Answer 1

A split ring or Duo-Lock snap adds a little extra action to those Pop-R's that can make a big difference. One thing I have noticed that a split ring tends to catch less on grass or floating debris in water than the cross lock snap. While I also use the Rapala knot while fishing for smaller sized bass, I feel that the knot weakens the line somewhat because of the overhand knot required in tying it. It seems to cut into monofilament which is what I normally use while topwater fishing. A Striper or Big Bass will find any weakness in the connection between itself and you and will surely exploit it to get away.

Answer 2

Always use a split-ring or a "Rapala Knot" when using topwater & Rapala-type lures.

UPDATE:

The reason most poppers don't come with split-rings is because they :
A. Save money

B. Expect you to either put your own split-ring's on or tie a Rapala Knot.

If you tie your poppers and topwaters directly to your line you lose subtle nuances in your lures "behavior" and "attitude". Plus it's tougher to "walk the dog" with a topwater tied direct.

Answer 3

I think a split ring is good for crank baits and stick or Rapala minnow baits. I don't use any extra hardware on topwater lures. There just isn't that great of a benefit, if any.

Answer 4

A split ring will give to some extra wiggles for your lure.

Answer 5

agree w/ stop makin cents!!