I personally don't trust the snap swivles, but I know a lot of people who use them. I use a split ring and make sure to use a good one. But you also need to make sure it's not too heavy where it pulls the nose of the bait down too much.

As far as the retrieve and the way you would start fishing it varies. I usually pause for a bit after the cast. That gives the fish time that you may have spooked a second to come back and look at what caused the commotion. But I have had success doing it both ways you have mentioned. It all depends on your water and how the fish respond to baits like that. So good luck and stick some pigs!