Grommets

[angler229]

I'm assuming you are referring to belly grommets which are not necessary. They help to protect the swivel holes from breaking down and dress up the plug. I think it just comes down to personal preference.

[JFigliuolo]

For mysel I countersink the holes and forget about it. If I'm trying to make a pretty plug I'll use a grommet. I seal w/epoxy though, so even cedar gets pretty stong after sealing. If sealing with another method I may make a different choice.

[jeffthechef]

necessary, probably not. i think they are more than just window dressing though. they help protect the wood from getting split and splintered in a critical area, lots of abrasion and contact there, especially on a plug that sees a lot of water, action and fish. for the low price and ease of installation, considering all the time i put into each plug, why not give them that extra edge? i don't do it for looks, i paint over a lot of mine anyway.