How to Use Fishing Split Ring Pliers

Split ring pliers are a vital tool for any angler, as they allow for quick changes and customizations to fishing lures. Hooks get dull or bent and need to be changed to keep hooking fish consistently. This chore is much easier once you know how to use split ring pliers properly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Split rings
Hooks

Step 1

Open the handle of the split ring pliers to open the jaws. Press the nose of the pliers between the rings of the split ring, which will allow the split ring to open. Align the pointed end of the split ring pliers so they are near the end of the ring.

Step 2

Hold the split ring pliers in place and slide the old hook around the ring until it comes out of the open end of the split ring. Slide the pliers around the ring during this process, as this will ensure that the split ring stays open wide enough for the hook to pass through.

Step 3

Grab the split ring again, with the pointed end of the pliers aligned in a manner to reopen the split ring, and slide the new hook into the opening. Once the hook is in place on the split ring, slide the pliers around the ring to keep it open and follow the opening with the new hook.

Step 4

Continue sliding the hook through the split ring until it clears the ring and is in place. Remove the split ring pliers from the ring, and your lure is ready to fish with a sharp, new hook. Repeat this process as necessary until all of the dull or damaged hooks are replaced on the lure.

Tips & Warnings

Use high-quality split rings because they will hold up to the toughest of fish without bending.

Be careful when replacing hooks because they can cut your fingers easily.

Resources

Cabelas Tackle Craft

Article Written By Brian M. Kelly

Brian M. Kelly has been freelance writing since 2003. His work has been published in respected outdoor magazines such as Outdoor Life, Great Lakes Angler and Salmon Trout Steelheader. He holds an associate's degree in automated machine design from Macomb College.

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