Try 3/8oz jig with 3" trailer old standby never fails
No you can buy packs of keeper at cabelas or bass pro shops, you only need to tie knot, to hook, keeper is adjustable to your leader length
I tie only one knot for the Carolina rig, I use manns Carolina keeper weight, bead, swivel and hook, something learned in a fishing seminar years ago
Try using a original rapala floating bait in the 3"size on spinning tackle, also you can use 3/16 oz spinnerbait, I have caught up to 2 1/2lbs on light tackle, 6-8 #test , med light rod 7', this is what I use on small ponds
Top water fishing I use mono for poppers walk the dog type baits, buzz baits and braid for rats and frogs, tie a palomar knot for braid and a improved clinch knot for mono, and always spend a little more for premium fishing line, works out in the long run, use a minimum of 14# mono, braid 65#
Use a palomar knot to a leader wire, the same size of lure, also try loud baits and bright colors
You can also try bobber stop made by manns so you only have to tie one knot, I learned this from bass pro in fishing class
Musky fishing is something you don't want to go cheap on with equipment, I personally recommend using abu garcia 6500 c4 reel, and a 8'med heavy rod, st croix mojo, and a 175#test leader
Use 80 lbs braid, 175 # leader, 8'6" medium heavy rod, abu Garcia reel6500 c4
Try double 8s they offer more sound