J-Hooks
The most common type of fish hooks used is the J-hook. It looks like a letter ‘J’, except that after the bottom ‘U’-turn, the sharp point curves back at a slanted angle.
Circle Hooks
On the other hand, the circle hook has a rounder circular shape. More importantly, the sharp point curves back to point straight at the shaft of the hook, which means that the hook can lie totally flat on a surface.
DURING A BITE
J-Hooks
The slanted curve of the J-hook allows it to catch onto any part of the fish easily. If the fisherman strikes quickly and accurately, the hook will be at the mouth. However, if the fish has swallowed the hook, the strike or the fight that follows will cause the hook to be lodged in the fish’s stomach.
Circle Hooks
The rounded shape and flat design of the circle is there for a reason. When a fish swallows the bait, the fisherman, simply by slowly and steadily retrieving the line, allows the hook to slide out of the fish’s stomach and catch on only to the mouth of the fish.
Why might one choose to use circle hooks?
1. No striking, or hook setting, is required. This will remove the problem of striking especially when fishing in deep waters and will also make fishing easier for beginners.
2. Less chance of getting fish that’s too small. As circle hooks will only work if swallowed, greedy small fish will nibble but not get hooked up. If there’s a bite, the size of the fish is more likely to be proportionate to the hook size you used.
3. A better fight is likelier from a fish that is hooked at the mouth then one that is fatally wounded in the stomach.
4. Fish have a higher chance of surviving should they be released, as circle hooks are less likely to hook into fish’s stomach.
If you decide on circle hooks…
1. As the hook is meant to be swallowed, the choice of hook size is more important. Generally, think of the species of fish you are targeting and the size of its mouth as a guideline.
2. As the hook is meant to slide out of a fish’s stomach without injuring it, the bait must be attached in such a way that it will break/fall away easily and not affect the hook as it moves out towards the mouth. Only attach soft, fleshy bait to the hook, never the bony part.
3. Most important, do NOT strike as this will only pull the entire hook out of the opened mouth of the fish. Steadily wind in your line when it tightens or slackens as a result of fish swallowing and swimming away.
