I am looking to get more into topwater baits this year specifically poppers and cigar/walking type baits.  I do pretty well with buzzbaits, although I can certainly improve there as well.

 

My question is what type of knots do you like for these 2 presentations?  My poppers (all 2 of them) don't have split rings so is a loop knot beneficial here or no?  I tie a San Diego Jam knot for nearly everything.

 

Same question regarding cigar/walking baits?

 

Thanks,

 

Matt

If it doesn't have a split ring then the loop knot will help with the action of the bait

 

You don't need a loop knot with the popper if you're just chugging it along.

Split rings are cheap and or just use a good clip. I like the owner clips but any will work.

will split rings impact the action of walk the dog type baits?

will split rings impact the action of walk the dog type baits?

They shouldn't. I've fished the KVD Sexy Dawg which actually comes with a split ring attached and I was able to walk it just fine.

canoe man loop with or without a spilt ring.  

I know with some poppers I have, the ring is recessed enough in the "mouth" of the lure that a San Diego Jam is about the easiest to tie. Not to mention it's the knot I use the most. I really only use a palomar for topwater frogs, and that's only if I remember to. I think the SDJ is about the easiest to tie, especially if you've got a lure with lots of hooks or a large profile.

canoe man loop with or without a spilt ring.  

Loop knot without the split ring. I tie a Palomar or SDJ when there's a split ring.

 

(Excluding topwater frogs, I tie direct to the frog)

If the top water lure comes with a split ring tie direct to the ring with whatever snug knot you tie well.

Dog walking lures walk better with line that floats and a small loop knot without adding any additional nose weight like clips or split rings. The Rapala loop knot is easy to tie and a good knot for dog walking lures.

Tom

Uni for everything.  Sooo easy!

If it doesn't have a split ring then the loop knot will help with the action of the bait

 

You don't need a loop knot with the popper if you're just chugging it along.

I never add or take off a split ring, I use the lure the way it comes out of the package.  Loopknot for the majority of my lures but top water I use an ordinary clinch knot.

I take the split rings off all my hardbaits and use a Non Slip Loop Knot.  Topwaters, jerkbaits and crankbaits....

Thank you to all that responded.  I appreciate your knowledge.  

canoe man loop with or without a spilt ring.

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