Pt. Wilson Darts Question: Swivel on the Hook?

[TyeeMatt]

I'm setting down to rig up my salmon jigs and noticed in the tackle box that I "share" with my Dad that he added a swivel to the split ring before putting the hook on. I understand what he's trying to do, which is minimize the opportunity for a fish to get leverage on the hook and break off, but it seems like it may make the hook sit at a weird angle as it is moving up and down in the water. Do any of you saltwater salmon jig fishermen add a swivel to the split ring and then attach the hook to that...or am I right and should I just continue attaching the hook directly to the split ring at the bottom of the jig? Thanks all.

[G-Man]

I prefer to use a swivel on hard baits like spoons, plugs and jigs. However, you may want to try rigging your jigs butterfly style if you are more concerned with how they could effect the movement of the jig. You can make them yourself using heavy braid and heatshrink tubing or purchase hooks pre-tied for just this purpose.

[dutchman2858]

picbutterfly12.jpg (37.72 KiB) Viewed 1352 times

G-man's suggestion concerning "butterfly" style rigging is spot on. By moving the hook to the top of the jig it also works great for not snagging on the bottom if you are fishing for rockfish, lings, etc.

[TyeeMatt]

Thanks guys. I've never seen that rigging before and will try it once I'm home and closer to where I can pick up some of the materials. For now...I'll throw some swivels on there. Wish me luck. "Springs" are being caught all over up here where I am in BC. In past years I've lost at least a couple each summer after long fights and was too stubborn to add that swivel, but deep down knew that some of them were just getting leverage on the jig and popping the hook. Dad was right...again.