I bought some hooks to replace and I am having trouble getting them off the ring. Should I remove the ring first and then change it? Also, does the size of the treble hook you are putting on matter. On larger, deeper diving cranks I will match the size. On smaller ones, do I need to match the size. I bought size 6 hooks.

Get yourself a pair of split ring pliers, they are not that expensive and it makes life much easier.

As to changing the size, its usually best to match the size. The lure is designed to run true with the weight of the hook they put on it. Changing the hook size "COULD" but not always, cause the lure not to run correctly

if you don't have split ring pliers, here's something that works. go to an office supply store and buy a 4 pronged staple remover ( the ones that look like a mouth with 4 teeth). They are like 2 dollars. It's what i use for changing treble hooks.

if you don't have split ring pliers, here's something that works. go to an office supply store and buy a 4 pronged staple remover ( the ones that look like a mouth with 4 teeth). They are like 2 dollars. It's what i use for changing treble hooks.

good thinkin! im ganna try that  ;D

I only remove the split ring if it needs replacement, most of the time I use my thumbnail to remove the hook. I go one size up for the hook and for my freshwater trebles I use a saltwater vmc hook, haven't noticed my lures running any different I think I'm using a superior treble.

For larger fish using larger lures I often go to single hooks ( siwash).  I do the same thing for spoons which are big part of my arsenal.

I don't have split ring pliers, so I used a push pin and that worked fine.