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Posts: 328
Location: MN | Is there a standard hook size and split ring size you use to replace your current lures hooks/split rings? I have a few bucktails and crankbiats I nneed/want to replace. The lures do vary in size from 6-10 inch lures. Just wondering if there is a particular system I can go buy versus looking up each lure? | |
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Posts: 149
| Just keep a small box with a selection of different sized trebles. I keep sizes 2/0 through 6/0, though 95% of baits will have 3/0, 4/0 or 5/0 on them. Just match up whatever size is on the lure you just cut the hook off of. No need to 'pre measure' if you will what each and every lure takes, just do it on the fly as you need a hook. Buy a pack each of 3/0, 4/0 and 5/0 to start and you'll be covered in almost any situation (also get 2/0 and 6/0 if you wish to have everything covered). Make sure to pre sharpen them before putting them in your box so they are ready to go at a moments notice with no modification(s) needed. For split rings, I use Bucher rings and they only have 2 sizes available. Get a pack of each and you're again covered for any situation. As before, no need to premeasure the size of split ring on each bait. Just have both sizes available and you'll be fine. Make sure you have a good split ring pliers, as it makes the job a piece of cake compared to struggling with a cheap pliers. | |
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Posts: 814
| I use bucher split rings on all my lures new and old best rings on the market IMO. In terms of hooks I use 3/0,4/0 and 5/0 in eagle claw laser sharp and vmc cone cut, The cone cut hooks come ready to put on they are laser sharp right out of the box most people can not get there hooks as sharp as these come right out of the box a little on the pricey side compared to eagle claw though.  | |
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| 300 pound Bucher split rings and 3/0, 4/0, 5/0, 6/0 or 7/0 VMC or Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp hooks depending on what I think is best for each particular bait. I replace the hooks on most of my baits and I add a split ring in front of most glide baits and cranks that need one.  | |
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| I have been looking for a "musky" sized pair of split ring pliers. They were out when I stopped at Rollie & Helen last year. I've checked Pastikas, Reeds, Thorne Brothers, and nobody has a big pair that would make opening those split rings easier. | |
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| Hey Jeremy, I bought some Berkley ones at Ed Shirley's Sports in Palatine, let me know at the meeting Wednesday if you still can't find them and I will try there for you. Sometimes they have them, sometimes they don't!
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| Thanks Steve. I've got two pairs right now and neither of them are designed for the bigger musky sized split rings. See ya tomorrow. | |
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| Hey Jeremy, I will have the split ring pliers and sunglasses tomorrow night for you to see after the meeting. See you there! | |
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Posts: 1185
Location: Wishin I Was Fishin' | I would like to recommend the small Rapala split ring pliers, Roger convinced me that they are the best. | |
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Posts: 132
Location: Kawarthas, Ontario | I use Roscoe American made S/S split rings in sizes 6 through 10. They're well made, and are plenty strong enough. I've never had a problem with them. Wolverine triple rings are good too, but their width can be a problem on many hook hangers. I prefer Mustad S/S trebles in sizes 4/0 and 5/0 for smaller baits, and 3551 bronze hooks in sizes 6/0 through 10/0 trebles for the larger baits. For spinnerbaits, I only use Mustad S/S singles in sizes 8/0 and 9/0. S/S hooks are significantly stronger than bronze hooks of the same size, they don't rust, and they have a higher density, meaning they hold an edge longer. Keep a utlity box handy, with a selection of what you need to keep your favourite bait operational when the time comes to have to cut hooks. As you use hooks and split rings, remember to periodically top-up your supply, and dispose of any damaged hooks that you may have tossed into the box. If you don't have split ring pliers, a traditional electrician's slot head screwdriver will work in a pinch. (I always carry one as a back-up in that same utility box.)
Stay away from chromed hooks. They're garbage!!!! They rust very quickly once the chrome coating is removed during the sharpening process. They don't hold an edge, and are a b*tch to sharpen without getting chrome filings in your fingers. Don't even waste your time sharpening them... just remove them and replace them with a bronze or S/S model before your bait ever touches the water. Not sure why some manufacturers continue to use them... while, yes I can, they're cheap. Nothing more frustrating than getting a decent bait with garbage hooks. Also, if the bait has chrome hooks, you can bet the split rings are offshore built chrome or "S/S" models too. Replace them while you're at it and save yourself some grief later.
Regards,
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Replacing hooks/split rings