View Full Version : What hook size causes the most penetration and damage
What hook size causes the most damage to the fish. Tryin to limit the holes put into the fish as much as possible. What size do you guys use. HOw small can ya go without loosing leverage...Jim
The thinner (and sharper) the hook is, the deeper it penetrates. It may not have the strength of a larger hook, but it will go deeper into the fish. Some guys swear by thin diameter hooks because of the better penetration, but I personally like having good strong hooks. Penetration doesn't help if the hook straightens out. The only way to prevent it with thin hooks is to play the fish longer, something I won't do.
BigFishCarlson
05-12-2003, 08:26 PM
Jim: I let the bait size influence the number hook I add. Usually, it's a 7-0 on a 10 split ring. Those little nickel hooks have great hooking capacity, too, as do most of the VMC saltwater hooks. I think you only cause problems if you pull instead of cutting your hooks, or pinch the barbs so they over-penetrate. What's your thoughts on cutting hooks? Mark
Marc Thorpe
05-13-2003, 03:51 AM
Mark,what you mean by pinching hooks allows over penetration.The barb does not really act as a restriction to penetration?
Jim,I have seen gill plates ripped with big hooks.I usually use 5/0 hooks,Although smaller ,they does the job.Cutting hooks as Mark suggested is the way to go.
marc
Capin Hook
05-13-2003, 04:42 AM
Oh, a hook with a shaft diameter of about a foot does a lot of damage
muskietamer
05-13-2003, 12:40 PM
a 2/0 gamu-something octopus has never straighten on me, Once the barb is (filed) they stick well with a tight line and release very easy at the boat. Drag them in, measure, slack line and they normally release themselves. I've lost the chance to measure some skis this way, but they swim away to be caught another day. Good luck good fishing.
BigFishCarlson
05-18-2003, 08:52 PM
Marc: Yes, pinching the barbs does allow easier penetration. Not to say a barb restricts penetration, per se, but it increases the diameter of the hook. A smaller diameter of uniform size simply penetrates further, all other factors equal. Lots of basic science research on hooks, penetration, and the like in surgical journals. Mark