You can use a crimp instead of snelling, you can use #30 coated cable if you prefer, the #30 coated cable I used was the same dia as the #17 mono. I got tired of the cable getting kinked after multiple fish so switched to the #17 mono.
I've gotten quite a few responses on running these, RUN THESE from .8mph to 1.4mph with .9 to 1.2 being the best. The guys doing that are having great results, the guys running them at 1.9 and above have not, if you want to run that fast leave the meat off. I run these along with regular harnesses and the walleye will let you know what they prefer.