What’s the best size circle hook to use for reds and trout?..also, does it really matter if they Circle Hooks or Octopus Circle Hooks?..does the eye position make any difference at all?
Already found my answer on size…2-3. Still wondering about the Octopus Circle v. Regular Circle
I like octopus hooks, especially when tying snell knots, sits more flush and is not at a sideway’s angle.
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I was just about to ask if it’d be better to snell it or improved clinch/palomar knot a circle
I don’t snell for reds and trout. A simple surgeon’s end loop and attach the hook with a Lark’s Head. Easy to tie and hard to get wrong with cold or wet fingers. I can’t do those with my eyes closed.
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I think a size 2-3 is too small for Reds. I use a 4/0 for Reds, never gut hook em, and I’ve caught some pretty small ones on that size hook. Actually move up to a 6/0 when the bigguns are biting. I use a size 1/0 or 2/0 for Trout, mainly so my live bait can move around a bit. I generally fish live bait under a float for the Trout and either live bait or cut bait on the bottom for Reds.
Agree with pawayne, 4/0 is a good size. Only one I use. Never had anything but a lip hook. If you go to small the fish can suck the bait in to deep and there is a chance you still might gut hook the fish. When fishing Reds size does matter.
A wise man once said “Do as I say not as I do” Good advice when I tell you that.
I always use 1/0 Gamakatsu Octo Circles, caught big and small fish, I usually go to the 5/0 size when thowing larger mullet or crab halves
Bragging may not bring happiness,
but no man having caught a large fish,
goes home through the alley.
-Anonymous
keep in mind that there is a lot of variation in the actual size of different brands and styles of hooks, especially circle hooks. I look for ones about the diameter of a nickel or just slightly smaller, usually 3-4/0 depending on the brand. Might be a little on the big side for smaller trout, but they have big mouths and if they’re hungry they’ll get it!
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