I apologize if this has been discussed before, I would think it has. Nothing turned up with the search function but I may not have executed it correctly.  
 

I am curious to see what the prevailing thought is with leaving plastic trailers on jigs/chatterbaits or if you pull them to help prevent rust to the hooks?  

 

how concerned should I be or am I overthinking it?  

I always pull the trailers off my baits, and put them in my used section in my plastic's storage box, if they aren't too damaged.

If I've used a trailer - no matter the lure - it gets pulled off at the end of the day and checked. Still usable - back in it's original bag, to torn - trash barrel that's in the garage where I store the canoe.

 

I never leave plastics on hooks past the end of the outing...ever.

20 minutes ago, Msl819 said:

or if you pull them to help prevent rust to the hooks

It WILL cause rust issues on many hooks.  Ask me how I know.  ?

Very recent thread on this question with lots of good info. 
 

Personally, I haven’t had any trailers rust a hook or melt a skirt. However, I do find my powerbait baits will react with my plain lead jig heads and almost “melt” the lead. I notice the lead has darkened and sort of comes off on my hand when I pick it up. This has only happened with the original powerbait which I find weird. Either way, take off your trailers and you definitely won’t have a problem. Don’t take the chance.