Split Rings: two Schools of thought

[Bryan]

So I've noticed there are a couple different schools of thought when it comes to tying location on a split ring.

Some say you should always tie on the opposite side of the split, because the ends of the wire could nick your knot if you tie inside.

Recently I've heard a well-known fisherman say that you should always tie in the split, because your lure will have better, more consistent action if the eye is not stuck inside that gap.

So what do you guys think? In the split? Out of the split? Doesn't matter?

[bassboogieman]

I solved that problem. I remove the split rings and use a Norman speed clip. Makes changing the bait quicker, easier as no retying. Another solution would be to change to an oval split ring - if you like split rings - they are not an expensive "upgrade". In answer to your specific question, years ago before I went to the clips I tied in the split, figuring the knot would be less likely to slip into the split and the lure eye would not get caught in the split possibly affecting it's action.

[Jrob78]

I add oval split rings to every bait that doesn't come with them already. They are inexpensive and easy to change. I hate tying to round split rings, my knot always ends up in the gap. If you're going to use regular split rings, always tie your knot opposite the gap.

[Bryan]

I like snaps a lot as well.

Honestly I don't think I've ever encountered a problem no matter where I've tied on a split ring, but it seems like most anglers usually feel strongly one way or the other.

[islandbass]

I will knot (pun intended) risk tying the knot in the split. I like to minimize the potential for failure. Not knot failure but having the knot slip off the ring. Yes, it's unlikely, BUT it is possible if the knot is in the gap. Just me, no right or wrong, just preference.

[rrw4258]

I have never payed attention to where the knot is going, mainly becasue I feel it doesn't make a difference. I much prefer the standard circular split ring as opposed to the ovals, or egg shaped ones.

Ryan

[A-style]

I have always tied opposite of the split. Last couple years been changing out to the oval rings. I feel better about the whole thing. Knot won't get nicked. Not going to slip out either and I think they are a little easier to handle while tying on. Will never use any kind of snap ring.

[keithdog]

I prefer to use a snap as well. I dont like risking the line getting damaged by the split in the split ring, plus I can change lures faster.

[BrownHL]

Duolock snaps fpr me also. Never failed.

[jdw174]

Another vote for the Duo-Lock snaps, or the Speed Clips. First thing I do when I get a new hard bait is to remove the split rings.

[Dogmatic]

I use snaps also, but have a question, when a lure comes with a split ring, do you take it off, and attach your snap, or do you attach the snap lock to the ring?

[BrownHL]

Yes, remove the split ring.

[basstech]

I still use the round split rings, I even actually replace my oval rings with round because to me, it felt like the oval ones were restricting the baits action. Then again, there are days that that is exactly what it needed. Like tying a palomar directly to the rogue as opposed to using a loop knot. I try to tie offset to the gap at 90 degrees, never in the gap, I've had split rings pull open on fish or hangups. Rare, but it does happen. I try not to tie adajacent to the gap either. I'll move my line around before I tighten up if I need to to make sure it's a 90 degrees, or at least offset and not adjacent.

[AUFred]

I add a split ring to all Pop R type baits and use a clip. Sometimes hard to get the clip to the line tie.