A broken ring is an open ring, wound on several turns, used to connect a hook to the body of a lure or to connect your line to the same lure. Ranging from small models for ultra-light fishing lures, to larger models for lures used in extreme conditions such as bluefin tuna or all exotic fisheries.
Let's take a look at how to choose the right size and how to install them on your lures using special pliers.
Choosing the right size:
The size of the line depends on the lure and the fish you are targeting. It must be strong enough not to open when fighting and the size must be adapted to the lure so as not to interfere with swimming.
Here is a table to help you make your choice:
Some models are designed for strong fishing and have a higher resistance for the same size than "standard" split rings.
Several brands distribute broken rings. Personally, I'm very fond of the Shout brand, which I use both for small models and for my tuna lures.
How to use them :
To do this, you need a pair of pliers with a specially designed beak. Without this tool, it will be very difficult to open them, especially the very rigid models intended for exotic fishing.
The one I usually use and really recommend is the HPA Gameplier.
Let's take the example of a 200 LBS broken ring with a 7/0 hook. Here, I didn't have my usual pliers that I use for this type of ring. So I used another model, but the principle remains the same, whatever pliers you use.
The first step is to grasp the ring by the beak of the pliers:
Press firmly on the pliers to open the ring. Quality pliers are essential for opening even the toughest rings.
Place the hook in the ring:
Slide the hook into the ring:
Once this step has been completed, proceed in the same way to attach your broken ring/hook assembly to your lure.
This operation is simple to perform, but requires a good pair of pliers. Although the model used here is a little limited for this ring size, it's perfectly suited to the "standard" lures I use the rest of the time.
To remember:
- Quality pliers are a must.
- Adapt the rings to the size of your lures.
- As with braids, pay attention to advertised and actual resistance.
