For years I've been using little silver creations that have made my life out on the water so much better. I'm talking about those little wire snaps (do not confuse snaps with swivels. They are two entirely different products and each have their own use).

I use the arkie brand snaps for 95% of my bass fishing, the snaps come in a variety of sizes and weight classifications and when tied to your line with a trilene knot you retain almost 100% of the test rated strength for the line your using.

The snaps work fantastic for crankbaits, jigs, hard stick baits, soft stick baits, and all soft rubber lures, as well as spoons, top water frogs/rats, carolina rigs, drop shot rigs, and I've even used them with spinnerbaits and buzzbaits.

I would'nt recommend the use of snaps with the last two lures. I have somewhat perfected the use of both lures while utilizing snaps. Many bass anglers claim that the use of snaps may cause more lost bass due to the lightweight wire openning up during a fight with larger bass. The fact is, I've had more "hooks" open up during fights then snaps.

I'm NOT saying snaps are foolproof, and I know many anglers will take the time to tie on directly, but they work wonders for me and I would say they'll work just as well for you. Especially when you don't have too much time on the water. And who does?

Not only are they easy to work with, they make lure changing quite easy and fast, and while its safe to say most bass anglers have a favorite rod and reel combo, we often use more than one. Having a snap on all your set-ups makes it all the easier to change lures quickly and still be able to use your favorite rod and reel.

Give snaps a try. I'm betting they will make your life on the water alot more easier and pleasant.

Mike Panek