I�m running the Falcon HD rods which I really like for the price point but they have the standard U keepers, what can be done to not have to unhook soft plastics every time?

Any rod repair guy can swap out keepers and make it look factory.

I simply drop the sinker behind the star drag.

Fuji EZ keepers work well. I use them on all my Lews rods since they don't come with hook keepers.

I usually push the hook through the plastic and attach the exposed end of the hook. I also put on a new plastic when I fish, so may be different for some.

I just poke the hook all the way through,then put the point through the keeper.