One simple and inexpensive way to resolve this issue is as close as the nearest hardware store. This solution requires no special applicator to set the ring in place and the cost is minimal. It is also clear, flexible and invisible as compared to the black or colored rubber ring. It happens to also be much more durable too. Clear Vinyl PVC tubing with an inside diameter of 5/16 is the perfect size for stick worms . At approximately 20-25 cents per foot, 1/8" rings can be cut for about 2-3 cents each.
Hmmmm.... Im trying to think of a tip that isnt blatently obvious to everybody.
For plastic crayfish imitations and something a bit different, pull off the molded antennae and replace them with spinnerbait skirt material or even flashabou. You can use a large curved sewing needle to run the material through the plastic bait through the head...enter from one side of the head toward the tail a bit and then turn the needle out the other side of the head. Also, you can add legs to plastic worms this way...
When fishing jerkbaits during the early spring, use long pauses between jerks, painfully long, up to 10 seconds or longer. Often they will hit when the lure is suspending there or moving ever so slightly, and often they will strike on the next movement. If the water is cold, give them time to get there. As the water warms, try different cadences of your twitches and pauses...start aggressive and if that doesn't work start slowing things down before giving up on the bait. Let the fish tell you what they want.
good tip...i also burn them right after they hit the water...i like to stop it half way to the boat and let it suspend...