Does ANYONE Tie Direct when.............

[Back Beach]

I used to tie directly to the hook with 25 or 30# mono running line before I started using braid. This was also when I fished more sandy locations and the fish were picky.
As far as removing the barrel, you're over analyzing IMO. Lots of times I have 3/8 to 1/2 oz rubber cores on the line and the fish still take. When a big enough hungry fish comes along it will all work out. Try a high speed retrieve if the fish are short hitting or set the hook sooner.

[animal]

Your leader should be 3-4 ft long.The bass isn't going to feel the swivel.Don't forget to let him run with the eel for a 5-6 count.

[niko]

for the most part i don't think bass are leader(swivel) shy at all. they've taken 12/0 treble snags on wire leaders when i've run out of smaller ones. when they are in gin clear water or they are casually feeding flouro might give you some sort of edge. but if it concerns you use those tiny spro swivs.

[fishaholic18]

I tie direct to the leader and direct to the hook. No hardware to fail. I trust my knots.

[BassDawg]

Thanks everyone....................
once again your wisdom and insights preceed you,
and i kinda figured iwas overthinking things.............

that is gonna be my next move.
i'll tie direct, trust my knots, 'cause i've always
liked the feel of direct and my knots are solid.

appreciate the reminder, Bob, except these gurls
were having none of it; hence the concern for the barrel ??

in Striper Surf, Daignault speaks of them being swivel
skeeered and does suggest as long a leader as you can cast comfortably and efficiently...........................

THANKS Again, gentlemen,,,,,,,,,,carry on!

[DZ]

BassDawg,
I tie direct when conditions dictate - bright moon, champaign water or when bass are just nudging the plugs or grabbing and dropping my eels. With the advent of braid not many do it anymore. I use 20 lb mono and tie direct when I need a subtle presentation. Tying direct can and does make a difference in certain scenarios - just have to be extra cautious when trying to land decent bass without a leader.

DZ

[Sea Dangles]

If using a spinning reel I would suggest a swivel. My eel leaders are 30-36" long with a snelled 6/0 gami octopus and a 130# spro swivel.