So is there a easy way to get the heat shrink hook protectors off a new Yellow Magic with out ending up in the ER with a hook in your finger. Those things are tough to get off.

I twist them counter-clockwise and most of them come off pretty easily. If not I cut down the edge with scissors.
Hope it works for you.

Thank I have been trying the little scissors down the side. I ruined one of the feathered tails manhandling it. I’ll try the twist deal. 2 more to go.

Agreed. Those “hook protectors” that have always been on all Yellow Magic baits have always been a PITA! I run a knife blade down the outside edge of the hook to cut off that little red cover off.

Leave em on, then complain about the hookup ratio!
It’s happened on here before...I promise.

I've melted a couple off with a lighter that I couldn't get off by slicing on it. PITA.

I use the large fingernail clippers.

The twist is the best way. Just be sure your fingers are dry. I remove them all as soon as I buy them. It’s harder out on the water when your fingers can get wet and pruned.

I buy Magnum Rebel Pop R's and then don't worry about the hook covers.

Have caught more fish in the back of the boat throwing a Pop R than guys in the front throwing Yellow Magics and Rico's. There are places I will spend more money, poppers aren't one of them.

I leave them on I don't get hung up as much with them on

Update. Put a fresh blade in a box cutter and made quick work of it much better than small scissors or pocket knife. No excuses for me now and I will remember the twist thing if a razor isn’t handy.

First one I had new out of the box last Fall at Lake Degray SP - drove up (no boat) to a shallow area back of a creek and massive shad school with occasional blowups. Rigging up quick and starting trying to pull the hook covers off while big fish busting. Resorted to trying to chomp and pull them off with my teeth - SCARY! Didn’t catch any bass but foul hooked about 10 shad, those hooks are sharp.

I agree!!!

Use a sharp knife and cut the plastic off at the top of the hook. Pretty simple.
If you have trouble with that, maybe you should just sit at home and watch fishing shows.

Well on second thought don't use a sharp knife, you might cut yourself. have your wife or girl friend remove the plastic hook guard for you.

Dude you need to learn to read a room and I can almost guarantee I have spent more time on the water and the woods than someone who has 14,000 post. Have fun trolling.