At 71 it's getting harder to tie knots.  Does using snap swivles affect the action of bass lures?  If so, are some less affected than others.  There are different sizes which would be the proper one?

Snaps and snap swivels do make lure changing easier.  You will still have to stop and retie once in a while to protect the integrity of the line tie ( I have tossed a few lures off because I let the line fray near the snap.  Snap swivels are best (they say) left to things like in line spinners and spoons, things which might impart twist to the line.  Snaps, size matched to the line and lure are recommended for most other lures.  Snaps cannot be used with spinnerbaits unless they have the "eye" type connection (rare nowdays).  These things being said, I used to use snap-swivels on everything and caught fish.  I know people that used them with worm hooks and caught fish.  So, good luck on the water and fish forever.

Using a snap swivle is bound to change the action of any lure a bit. I'm sure you can still catch fish using them though.  Just like using a uni-knot and leaving a big loop in it changes the action of the lure. 

Try using snaps only and not snap swivels.Swivels are only needed to prevent line twist. If you get snaps in sizes 1,2, and 3 that will cover all size lures. I hope this helps. Good luck.

I have the same  problem and use snap swivels for heavier lures and baits and snaps for light tackle.
Life Member since 1996, Greenlantern, Wichita, Ks

How are you, Mainecat?

 

I agree that snap-swivels should be used for lures that'll twist line, & just a snap (no swivel) should be used for everything else.  But rather than base the size of the snap on the size of your line or lure, at this point I think you should base the size on what's easiest for you to operate.  The larger sizes do tend to be somewhat easier to operate than the smaller ones, so I'd say go with snaps a little larger than the line or lure sizes call for.  You don't want to use a giant snap, of course, but the smallest one you can handle comfortably.  After all, fishing's supposed to be fun, & it's always more fun when the equipment's easier to use.  Yes, it's going to affect lure action, & yes, sometimes the lure might tangle with the line now & then during a cast.  But if snaps are how you can keep fishing, then I'm all for them, Mainecat.  We want to keep you out there chasing those bass.

 

Also, because you find it hard to tie the hook directly to the line, you may want to consider buying the pre-snelled hooks, which come with a leader complete with a loop.  That way, when you fish with live bait, you can get the hooks on & off the rod just as easily as a lure.

 

Tight lines to you, sir.

 

 

If I'm not fishing, I'm thinking about it. Keep the line fresh, the hooks sharp, and have fun fishing. God bless you. -Sonny, Life Member since 2002

I have fished with and without snaps.  While trolling minnow baits for trout last week I caught more fish than my buddy.  Both my rods had snaps (with swivels for spoons without for rapala type baits).  Spoons worked better.  I use snaps with very round ends like those that come on hotshots.  Salmon and steelhead don't seem to mind.  good luck.