Pacemaker Fishing Forum

I don't like them generally....but you can get the quick snaps which don't have as much metal.

I've found that it really depends on the lure.  Tubes and jigs seem to do just a little better without a swivel.......not it catching, but in keeping less grass/algae off the lure.  Crankbaits and spinners do well with them, while spinnerbaits do not run as true with them.  If you are using spinning gear, a swivel limits line twists and does especially well with braid by limiting wind knots.

I really don't think the bass sees the swivel, or just does not care if he is feeding........Lots of folks throwing Alabama rigs with 6-12 lures hanging off of multiple 6-12" metal wires are doing very well.

The fish certainly don't mind my snap swivels, even on a tiny crankbait.  The only time I tie direct is to baited hooks.
I have experienced some snap swivel failures though, on both parts.  Catfish and bowfins have been the problem, not bass.

What I've got now is Eagle Claw dual locks attached to some good Tsunami and KVD Mustad swivels.

.... this forum hates my work computer. I wrote a hugeee response but its gone

the skinny:  the have a time and place.  if the lure was designed to be used with one then i use it. the few seconds you save isn't worth the cons i think they have (effect on action, what the fish and I see, another part to fail). 

there are many knots out there and many tricks to tying knots easier.  maybe try a new knot? I don't know what your condition is but maybe that will help.

The best part of fishing is doing what works for me. Although we all fish, both in and out of that realm we are intensely different people. The most peculiar apparatus and approach can be effective. This is innovation.Convention is merely a springboard. Inspiration can be fleeting and tenuous.Hesitate not ...

I love it when Jeff gets to writing like that.....