Topwater bait setups

[kcg202champ]

Ok, this has been probably discussed before... but is it best to use a split ring on the front of walking baits,glidebaits, even plopper or popper style baits or is it better to just tie the knot straight to the bait?
I mainly use a loop knot on every bait above EXCEPT the plopper style baits.

[DaveBrabec]

I like a swivel on front of plopper when weeds around,keeps line from twisting
Split ring on some baits

[Casslaw]

If you’re good at tying a loop knot there’s no reason for a split ring, actually a split ring will tear your line up with a loop knot. If you want to use a Palomar, use a #2 split ring.

[dragon1]

9 times out of 10, its a proper sized snap on a walking bait, and even some poppers like the Pop-Max and Daiwa TD Popper. Some poppers need a direct tie due to mouth and line tie design, which is most of the 1/4 - 3/8 poppers I own...it's best to experiment and find out whether a direct tie or snap works best with the poppers.

WPs and prop baits, a proper sized snap swivel is what I would recommend.

[DrewFlu33]

I agree with Casslaw. A loop knot is tough to beat as long as you’ve removed any split ring first. You won’t get more natural action, and that damn thing just doesn’t break! I know it probably doesn’t test as strong as other knots in a lab, but in practice they’re just plain strong. My working theory is that a knot that’s cinched tight to the eye rubs and burns as the bait moves which weakens it, while a loop knot does not.

[Alumicraft145]

I use an owner weedless snap. Never a problem.

[RazorCat]

I use Norman Speed Clips for most all my topwater setups. The regular size works just like a loop knot. Let’s the bait work freely. I use the Magnum version on larger topwater baits, or if I want to give it a more nose down action.

[krindgen]

I switch all my walking and glide baits over to a snap. Remove the split ring. Fished a plopper for awhile last trip out and can see using a swivel next time.