The hook has many components and comes in a wide variety of styles for such a relatively simple device.
Regardless of type, every hook has a few basic characteristics. The end has an eye to thread the line through. The shank is the section from the eye to the curve. After the curve, there is a sharp point. Many have a barb (a secondary smaller hook that prevents the fish from escaping) near the point.
The size and shape of a hook is nearly as important as the individual parts.
The size of the gap between the point and the shank plays a critical role in catching fish. If it is too small it will not grab the fish firmly allowing the fish to pull away.
The throat or the distance between the center of the bend and the midpoint of the gap plays a similar part in how effectively the fish is hooked.
Beyond the basic attributes, there are many variations in styles of hooks. The points can be ultra-sharp or blunt. Thin points penetrate easily, but thicker points hold better.
As with all design elements, it is a balancing act that is influenced by the style of fishing. Saltwater fly fishing makes use of a narrower hook to penetrate more easily the tough hides of game fish. Fly fishers often use a reversed or kirbed point in tandem with large flies. The sharp angle makes for an effective barb.
Just as barbs come in different styles, so does the eye. Looped eyes make threading and line release easy. Just make a knot and slip it through the narrow gap between the shank and the end. Swiveled eyes are used for large game fish to help keep the lines from becoming twisted.
Circle hooks are a newer fad even though the design has been around for a while. The shank is curved, making a long bend with no straight shaft. The curve is designed to slide along the inside of the mouth to the corner of the jaw. This helps prevent gut hooking and leaves fight in the fish after it is hooked.
It also means there is no need to set the hook to lodge it into the fish. The fisherman needs only to reel back gently to be on his way to a fun catch. Circle hooks make fore fairly easy catch and release.
Hooks are made from a variety of materials but stainless steel is the best option for saltwater fishing. Forged hooks are the norm for bait fishing. Avoid tinned hooks because they often corrode quickly.
Generally there is no benefit in trying to modify an existing hook by bending, filing or otherwise changing it. It is too easy to break the hook or stab your thumb. In a pinch, do what is necessary, but it is best to have a number of different styles in the tackle box.
Fishing Facts |
