You know what I think of the Daiwa Salt Pro Minnow from previous posts. It is the best plastic swimmer out there to catch striped bass (see pic of big one I got last night at right). However, realize it has its flaws. The hooks and split rings are flimsy, or a better word would be junk. Many fishermen, including myself, are finding that big stripers can bend the hooks and split rings. There is a solution to this problem. I am beefing up all my Daiwa SP Minnows.
Here's how it's done. Using split ring pliers, remove the original hardware. I then replace all the split rings with heavy duty 5.5H split rings (100 lb. test) from NJ Tackle (http://www.njtackle.com/ ). Next, add a new set of hooks. I am using VMC 4X trebles, size 1/0, that I also purchased from NJ Tackle. That will do it. Since I have changed the hardware on my plugs, no problem with bent hooks or split rings.
I'm amazed that a big company like Daiwa did not realize their hardware was sub par on these plugs. Don't these guys test their products before putting them on the market?
