Changing hooks? How?

[TravisLovett]

Ok, I've heard a lot about changing the crappy trebles on baits like  Rat-L-Traps and others but honestly i have no idea how.  Also im not sure what size hook to use, or who has the best product out there.  IF someone could give me a crash course, or a link to an article here on the website, I would appreciate it.

[Deuceu72]

Well, If worse comes to worse, then just take off the old hooks, go to BPS or wherever, and "match" the size that way..........Most lures(depending on how big the lure is) will have either a # 4 or # 2 sized treble hook on them. You might also buy an o-ring splitter while you getting new hooks..........makes life much easier..........after that, its all downhill..........Take off the old, put on the new and away you go...........Hooks you want to use? You can never go wrong with Gamakatsu, but some people swear by Mustad and Daichi(spelling?) as well so as far as that goes, its all preference...........You can also experiment by swithcing a # 4 hook for a # 2..............gives different action, etc...............I hope that helped a little bit...... ;D

[Hawgin]

I'm a little different in the fact that I think #2's are to big for rattle traps.  I usually go with #4 size treble hooks on the front of the traps(preferrable red one's), and I put #6 size on the back.  I've been using the Mustad Ultra points, but Gammy, Owner, or VMC all make fine hooks.  To change them you bascially take the hooks off and put new one's on just like you would take a key of/on a key ring.

[Grey Wolf]

1/8 oz. cranks usually have # 8 or #10 hooks. #1 split rings.

1/4 0z. usually have #6 or #4 hooks. # 2 split rings

1/2oz. usually have #4 or #2 hooks. # 3 or #4 split rings.

The above is generalizing because differant brands sometimes use differant sizes.

Buy a good pair of split ring pliers .

It's a good idea to buy the Rick Clung split rings (oblong shape ) at BPS ON LINE.

I do use # 2 hooks on 1/2 0z. traps but it is a personal preferance.

[TravisLovett]

Do you see a big difference in hooksets?  I know im going to change them out on my rat-L-traps.  I got one today stuck in the fabric of my chair and while trying to pull it out the hook split down the center.  Pretty bad quality.