change hooks on stick baits ?

[fatboy]

fella's just bought some yozuri stick baits a i noticed that the hooks seem not too sharp and looks like they are galvanized. do you change the hooks on new baits ? what brand or type do you use if you do this ? the hooks on my new rapalas seem much smaller and sharper.

[REW]

Sharp hooks catch fish - dull hooks miss fish!!
It is that simple.
You have two choices:
a. Sharpen all of the hook points on your treble hooks - actually it doesn't take that much time, with a good diamond hone, and a pair of needle nose pliars.
Use the needle nose pliars to securely hold the treble - as you sharpen both sides of each of the hook points on each treble hook, of each crank bait that you have.

If you have more money than time : then, yes; certainly go buy some new sharp hooks. The NEW vmc, Gammi, Barbiarian out barbs, are just three examples of good hooks. The triple grips are great as well.

In general, use a hook size that matches the bait, and the prey that you intend to target.
Be aware, however, that if you have a floating bait; or if you have a suspended bait; by installing larger hooks; you will likely change the floatation properties of these baits.

So, be careful - if you want to keep the bait floating or suspending.
Even a diving bait, can get out of wack - if you put on a noticably smaller or larger hook - than was designed for the bait.

Stay sharp and be good.
REW

[Jim Tunney]

I've changed them all to mustad triple grip. Size the hook and shaft lenght to the lure. If you look they have a new type of hook shape to keep walleye on the hook. They are super sharp out of the package. The only ones I haven't changed are Reef Runners. The hooks they use are super sharp out of the package.
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