A popular piece of traditional fishing tackle is a small unit of metal hardware consisting of a barrel swivel connected to a small wire clip, or the “snap.” Elite Bassmaster angler, Greg Hackney remembers always using snap swivels in his youth but you probably won’t find them used by most tournament anglers. Although handy, they are not for every fishing situation.
Snap Swivel Advantages
Allows for a quick lure change without tying another knot.
Reduces line twist. This is especially helpful with rotating lures like inline spinners.
Increases action of some fishing lures. The additional pivot point may allow a little additional wobble to a spoon.
Snap Swivel Disadvantages
Decreases action of some lures. Depending on the lure type, line used, and fishing conditions, you may find that the lure hooks can find a loop in this hardware as it enters the water. Sometimes it is a rare occurrence but if it continues to completely foul the fishing lure action, try a different lure or tie directly. Not a good idea for spinnerbaits without a closed loop in the wire bend.
Detracts from some lures. It complicates the feel and appearance of slow moving fishing lures such as bass and walleye jigs bounced across a rocky bottom. This also is the case with small lures such as when ice fishing with micro jigs and spoons.
Detracts from soft plastics. These special lures are very lifelike in appearance and feel, so finesse anglers take care to make it look as natural as possible. This means tying directly to the hook and even hiding the knot and hook eye by burying it in the soft plastic when possible.
Quick Work with Various Fishing Lures
Tournament anglers rely heavily on soft plastic lures. Plus when they want to change lures, they probably change rods, with that lure selection already dedicated to that rod. However for the rest of us, the snap swivel will help you quickly work through an assortment of fishing lures and increase the efficiency of a family fishing trip while the kids are still learning knots.
Do you use snap swivels? If not, they are worth a try. When you are buying your fishing license, I’m sure you will find a selection near the hooks and weights.
Andy Whitcomb is an award-winning freelance writer, outdoor humorist, and stressed-out Dad living in Pennsylvania. Visit him at www.justkeepreeling.com
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