Last year I used snap weights to fish for Lakers and had a lot of success.  But I found snap weights to be a major pain - getting them off as you're reeling in a trout is a headache to say the least.  This year (August 6 - August 31!!!!) I'm going to try using weighted 3-way swivels.  Then I can use spoons, jerks or really anything I have a mind to as a lure.
For knots, I used to use a variety but I'm with DB, I'd rather fish than tie knots.  I find the uni knot works very well for all my needs.  It's not the strongest knot (though 90% strength isn't bad) but it is very easy to tie and, if done properly, won't fail due to slipping.