Thread: Circle hooks?

I've used them for a couple of years now fishing for cats with a slip float rig - haven't tried limb lines or noodles. I like them because most hookups are right where they're supposed to be - in the lip or corner of the mouth. I've had very few come off and I'm convinced that was because I yanked too hard setting the hook. I don't think I've ever lost one when I just reeled the slack out of the line and gave just a tug to set the hook.

They make hook removal a snap. Use as small a hook as you can to prevent hooking small cats through the eye (if you'll release them). I've even made small circle hooks for bluegill fishing with bait by bending J-hooks with pliers. They work for them too, and it's better than killing a bunch of little bream that swallow the hook. Small ones are available, but I'm too stingy to buy them until I use up hooks I have on hand.

See, I haven't gotten into circle hook yet. Do you really let the fish hook themselves?

They work here in Kansas for cats, usually hook them in the mouth corner or lip.

Definitely circle hooks work. Generally lip hooks from bluegills on size 8's through carp on size 2s to catfish on size 1/0 and 2/0 and even bigger for flatheads. Almost never a gut hook. I don't fish bait very often any more, but when I do I will snell on a circle hook. And like they say DO NOT set the hook, just tighten the line and the fish generally hooks itself. If you plan on releasing fish circle hooks are the way to fish bait.

I've been using circle hooks for years mainly on jug lines in the 6/0 to 9/0 size depending on the bait. Don't think there is a better hook out there for jug lines. They are also great for kids, women and older folks that have trouble setting the hook. I just leave the rods in the rod holder and crank down on the fish when they take it. Caught some big blues using them.

Do you think they might work for handlines?

They will work on anything. Big key is not setting the hook. If you do it will pull out. Also a good in between hook is an octopus hook. If they hit it hard enough it will set itself like a circle but you can still set the hook. Started using them last year and they are awesome. On a different note, not all hooks are created equal. Do some research.

Used circles and octopus hooks this morning and went after blues. Caught 12 up to 22 lbs on Carolina rig on bottom.