When the numbers get bigger the hooks get smaller, then as the numbers get bigger the hook gets smaller. Yes, I said that right, are you confused yet? The importance of hooks is often overlooked by many anglers who are more focused on what to throw and where. Your setup is only as good as the weakest link, make sure it is not the hooks. Hooks come in a variety of types and sizes. Are you using the correct hook? The right hook can be the difference between landing a fish or telling the story of the catch of the year that got away! It is always a good idea to have a variety of hooks on hand because not every hook can handle the current situation and not all hooks are created equal.
Let’s start with the basics first
Anatomy of a fishing hook
The anatomy of a fishing hook includes several parts:
1. Shank: the straight part of the hook that extends from the eye to the bend
2. Bend: the curved portion of the hook that defines its shape and holds the hook point
3. Barb: a small projection on the shank that helps to prevent the fish from being able to spit the hook
4. Point: the sharp end of the hook that penetrates the fish’s mouth and secures the hook in place
5. Eye: the circular loop at the top of the shank where the fishing line is tied
6. Gap: the distance between the shank and the point
7. Throat: the curved area between the bend and the point
These parts work together to create a hook that can penetrate and hold a fish effectively, while also allowing the angler to retrieve and release the fish with minimal harm.
What are fishing hooks made of
Fishing hooks are typically made of metal, such as:
1. High-carbon steel: strong and durable, it provides a good balance between strength and cost.
2. Stainless steel: rust-resistant and offers good strength, but is typically more expensive.
3. Titanium: light, corrosion-resistant, and durable, but also expensive.
4. Brass: less durable than steel but it is a good option for freshwater fishing because it does not rust.
In addition to metal hooks, there are also hooks made of other materials such as silicone, which are useful for fishing in environments where hooks may become entangled in weeds or other underwater structures. The choice of hook material will depend on the type of fishing being done and the species being targeted, as well as personal preference and cost considerations.
Types of fishing hooks
Below is a list of some of the more common fishing hooks and what they are used for. This is by no means an exhaustive list due to the many specialized hooks made for certain techniques of fishing.
1. J-hooks: a classic shape that’s versatile and can be used for a variety of species
2. Circle hooks: designed to hook the fish in the corner of the mouth, reducing harm to the fish
3. Treble hooks: often used as replacement hooks for lures, with three hooks attached to a single eye
4. Baitholder hooks: have barbs on the shank to hold the bait in place
5. Offset hooks: similar to J-hooks but the point is bent at an angle for better hook setting
6. Aberdeen hooks: a light wire hook with a small diameter, good for live bait fishing
7. Kahle hooks: similar to the Aberdeen, but with a wider gap and a straight shank
8. Sproat hooks: a popular freshwater hook with a wide gape for good hooking ability.
When should I use a larger hook?
There are several situations when using a larger hook can be beneficial for fishing:
Targeting larger fish: using a larger hook will make it easier to penetrate the mouth of a big fish and provide a better chance of landing the fish once it’s hooked.
Fishing with bigger bait: larger hooks are better suited for holding larger baits, such as whole fish or large cut baits, which are commonly used for targeting species like catfish or tarpon.
Using heavier line: when fishing with a heavy line, a larger hook provides more surface area for the knot to grip and reduces the chances of the hook pulling free from the line.
Challenging conditions: in murky water, fast currents, or heavy surf, a larger hook can be easier for the fish to find and also provides a better chance of hooking the fish securely if the bite is soft.
In general, using a larger hook can be advantageous in situations where a strong hook hold is necessary or when targeting larger fish, but it can also make it more difficult to penetrate smaller fish, so it’s important to consider the species you’re targeting and choose a hook that’s appropriate for the size and species of fish you’re after.
When should I use a smaller hook?
There are several situations when using a smaller hook can be beneficial for fishing:
Targeting smaller fish: smaller hooks are better suited for smaller mouths, making it easier to hook and land smaller fish, such as panfish or trout.
Fishing with smaller bait: smaller hooks are better suited for holding smaller baits, such as worms, grubs, or small pieces of cut bait, which are commonly used for targeting smaller species.
Stealth approach: smaller hooks can be less visible to fish and can help to attract more bites, especially in clear water or when targeting finicky species.
Using lighter line: when fishing with a light line, a smaller hook provides a smaller profile and reduces the chances of spooking the fish, making it a good choice for finesse fishing techniques.
In general, using a smaller hook can be advantageous in situations where a more subtle approach is necessary or when targeting smaller fish, but it can also make it more difficult to hook and land larger fish, so it’s important to consider the species you’re targeting and choose a hook that’s appropriate for the size and species of fish you’re after.
Final Thoughts
We have all had that fishing buddy or old timer down at the tackle shop tell us we had to upsize or downsize our hooks.Is it something that they heard somewhere? Maybe they change hook sizes, and it works, but they do not know why.Knowledge is the difference between a good angler and a great angler. One small choice is all it will take to get the lunker that is just off the bow of the boat to take your bait. Make your decision to FISH DIFFERENT today!
