Hook Up Size Ratio?

[Bk4]

Does the hook size effect hookup ratio? When can you tell if the hook on your bait is too big or too small for the bait?

[Sam]

Yes, big time. You can lose that monster bass if you do not have the correct hook for your bait and technique.

 

You want the hook to be stable in your plastic and have enough hooking power to tag the bass and hold it on the hook. Some guys like to have the hook at the end of the plastic. Others in the middle. Some don't think it matters.

 

Lay your plastic down and place the hook below it and see where the point will emerge on the top of the bait. Then decide if that is the correct size, style and weight for the bait, your presentation and if you are fishing structure, cover or a flat bottom. Just remember you need to balance the hooking power with the plastic's natural movement.

 

Hooks will add "weight" to your bait that can help or hinder the bait's action.

 

There are "light wire" hooks and "heavy wire" hooks and each has a place in your arsnel.

 

Using a light wire hook will not give you the penetration you may need to get the hook through a fat plastic and into the bass' mouth. But it will have less effect on your bait's action.

 

There are no "standards in the fishing industry so what one manufacturer calls a 2/0 hook may not be the same size of another company's 2/0 hook. This is why we all have our favorites and stick with them.

 

For Havoc's and Ika's you need a heavy wire hook. For the drop shot a light wire hook. In between you can use anything you want.

 

I wish there was a simple answer but the guys and gals on this site have their favorite hooks and you will bet bombarded about "this hook and that hook, etc."

 

Experiment. That is part of the fun of bass fishing.

 

Think about your presentation; view any YouTube videos you can find on specific techniques; check out Glenn's YouTube productiions - they are outstanding; read about what hooks and techniques the pros use in books and magazines; watch weekend fshing shows to note the tackle the pros and even Zona use (when he shuts up); and talk with the guys in your favorite tackle shop about what hooks they use for what presnetations.

 

Just remember each company's hooks are not identical to other hooks and sooner or later you will have your favorite hooks for different presentations.

 

I like Owners for treble hooks and Gammy's for all others although I do have many brands and styles in my tackle box.

 

And remember the hooks' points can get dull after a few fish so always be sure the hooks are the sharpest at all times and on't be afraid to change them out as you fish during the day.

[Bk4]

Thanks that answer my question

[Marty]

Does the hook size effect hookup ratio? When can you tell if the hook on your bait is too big or too small for the bait?

 

I realize that you already consider this answered, but I'd just like to add my take on hook size. The guideline that I use is that the hook's gap be at least double the diameter of the lure. That will allow room for the hook to get through the plastic and into the fish's jaw. Using a gap that's too small can result in failure to achieve proper hookups.

[Sam]

BK4, check out this video on rigging a Mag II worm and you will see another presentation to consider.

 

Go to YouTube and look up "Rigging a zoom mag11 worm with Dan Beeler"