This is going to be my 1st time throwing anything this big. I bought a couple of 9' ospreys. My question is, do I tie directly to the bait, or do I use a split ring? It seems as if I were to use a split ring it might tear up the bait. Should I just use a palomar knot? I'm using 20lb big game. Any other advice for this newbie swimbaiter would be great. Thanks

P.S. I'm getting a 9" slammer next week. Does the same apply to it? I've already bought the gami 2/0 hooks.

Snap for sure on the Slammer. It keeps the line from getting off to the side of they eye which can cause the bait to swim sideways. I feel like it adds some additional squeak to the bait too once the metal wears down a little. On the osprey I don't think you need a snap. 2/0 gammies all the way. Good luck.

-Rob