Upgrading SK Red Eye Shad Hooks

[Big_Easy_Bassin]

Been having issues with the cheap stock hooks on my RES’s straightening out, especially after I’ve caught a few fish. Pretty sure the 1/2oz comes with size 4 hooks, and I’ve read that KVD will go up to a 2 when he swaps them out. I usually throw the 1/4oz model. Not sure if they’re size 4 or 6. What size would you guys recommend on 1/4oz RES’s? I was planning on using the Mustad KVD triple grips, but if anyone has any other suggestions I’m open to trying a few brands out. Thanks in advance for any help!

[ww2farmer]

If you plan on going with mustad KVD triple grips... specifically the 1x strong, 2x short TG76 hooks, then upsizing one size from stock is perfectly fine.

 

1/4 oz comes stock with #6, 1/2 comes stock with #4, and 3/4 comes with #2. I generally don't upsize them, but have in the past and there's been no ill effect. Just changing the stock hooks to the better hooks will be a dramatic improvement, even if you don't upsize.

 

I have also played around with Owner ST-35's and ST-36's on these baits, and they work well too. The ST-35's are shorter shank hooks so you might be able to get away with upsizing. The ST-36 are normal shank length, so I'm not sure about upsizing with those (I haven't done that with either of those).

[Revival]

I use the Mustad triple grips in size 6 for the 1/4oz RES.