Hook replacement....What size??

[Sluggo / NY]

Besides all the recent talk about dull and poor quality hooks, I discovered that my "Bait File" was put away wet last fall. I'd sure like to catch whoever did that! ;-) I now need to replace the hooks on 50 or so Rapalas. All the ones in this box are F or J / 9's or 11's, so they're all the same size hooks. The problem is that I don't know what size they are. They look like about a size 6, but I'm not sure. Would I be better off going a bit larger? Any ideas? Thanks in advance..& Good Fishing, Sluggo

[WAeyes]

Replace with #6 hooks on your floating Raps, and #4 for your J9 and #2 for your J11. These are one size bigger than original hooks because odd sizes are not available for replacements. Dont know why?

[REW]

I agree with the previous postings except for husky jerks (suspending).
If you go with one size larger - the baits will sink.

I have found that if I use one size smaller on the front hooks, and go with one size larger on the back hook, the bait is still in relatively good balance, and it doesn't seem to upset the action. Typically, the bait might be just a tad light, that you can correct with suspend dots.

Take care

REW

p.s.
I generally use triple grips for replacement. A suprisingly reasonable place for getting these hooks is Wall Mart. much cheaper than Cabellas or Bass Pro. Give them a try.

[weasel]

or order the triple grips from stamina, they are priced good in quantity

[Backwater Eddy]

A good place to buy bulk hooks of whatever quality you need is Jan's Netcraft Catalog. Bulk anything for that matter?

I replace lot's of bent up hooks yearly and buy the 100 ct. packs in the 1ot. 4's and 6's in treble's.

They carry a great diamond impregnated flatstone that opens like a butterfly knife, awesome hook sharpener! Great for all size hooks even the stainless steel Storm hooks.

Hope this is of some help! (:
Backwater Eddy