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Hard part with plug making is that the plugs we make are used for loads of fish from striper to muskie. I've had pics of GTs on my plugs ,tuna,dorado,snook,albies,sharks and so on. Most of us use a split ring so you can change things out if you wish but be forwarned. The plugs many of us make take a bit of testing to get them to work and catch fish. So if you decide to opt for a single say a siwash you've just changed the balance of the plug plus single hooks have a tendancy to hug the plug body . You miss more fish. Flatening the barbs works great for releasing fish. There used to be several hooks that came barbless but sales were so low they took them off the market. Single siwash on the back is a good way to go but for striped bass the belly hook is important. Release mortality is from rushing of as is often seen flipping a fish up in the air and laughing when it lands on its side or numerous photo ops. Wearing a glove helps in releasing and taking time to let the fish revive so it swims away from you. A good release gets you a face full of water from the tail. I call this the kiss good bye LOL. The reality is we fish to catch fish otherwise we wouldn't be fishing. Too light gear may be fun but it kills fish. Schoolie gear is a death sentance to big fish.
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