I've got some of the smartlinks. Bought them on a whim a while back. I've done some static tests on them and given up before they let go. I was cringing all the way, the thought of it letting go and the kinetic energy stored in it, made me think twice about doing it on dry land. I'm sure it would be different underwater but I was very wary of a plug coming at me at 200mph even if my back was turned etc etc as the bumph tells you to. I will say tho the 20lb ones I have take a huge amount of pull and they didn't twang before I chickened out. That alone has put me off using them.
I can see their benefits at much lower lb ratings in freshwater but I'd agree, you'd need the 20lb to stop a big Bass and at that rate the thought of a plug coming back at me at high speed, I'd not do it.