Despite what the movies would like you to believe, there is a lot more to the world of fishing than simply heading out with a line, a pole and a hook.  Sure, it looks casual and trendy, but actually getting the catch that you came out there to get is as much about your equipment as it is about the location.  One of those critical pieces to know about and use to your advantage is a fishing hook.

The different sizes

There are various kinds of hooks, and one of the distinctions between then is going to be size.  A hook will be categorized with an ascending number system or a descending number system depending on what kind of hooks you’re looking at.  For example, if a hook has a number followed by a zero, it’ll go from a 2/0 to a 3/0 and the 3/0 will be bigger.  If, however, the hook size does not have a zero at its end, it’s the opposite A size 3 hook will be smaller than a size 2 hook.

The different kinds of hook points

There are various kinds of hook points that will give you different results when you hit the water.  To start things off, a bait hook is a great option. It is perfect for children or beginners who are learning how to fish.  It’s also the most common kind of hook.  They have small barbs for baiting.  Another popular one is a jig hook.  Coming in variety of sizes and shapes, these are fun to look at and great for using with plastic and live baits alike.

Sharpening your hooks

As with most things, sharpening your hook is a refined process that must be done right to give you a strong hook and long-term use out of your hook.  You should always carefully inspect your hook and determine how to best go about the sharpening process for angle and sharpening tools.  When sharpening the hooks, you will need to use slow strokes to prevent heat build-up and use light touches to keep too much metal from the hook tip so that it doesn’t weaken.

Safe hook storage

When storing your hooks, do not combine used and unused hooks in the same storage space, ie tackle box.  Since unused hooks are, well, unused, they can easily be stored in their included packaging so that you do not mix them up with used ones.  This prevents rust or other destructive elements (salt water, fish “stuff”) from getting in and ruining your brand-new hooks without you realizing it.

By following these tips and heeding this advice, you’ll be one step closer to the right tools for the right catch and know that you’ve got a sharp, strong hook to do all of the heavy lifting for you.  Whether you are familiar with the world of fishing, or you’re still getting to know the diverse world of hooks and barbs, this will help you to dip your toe in the water a little bit more and make hook safety a priority.

There are various types of fishing and where you go and what bait you use can determine what kind of fish you’ll hook. Galveston Fishing Charters’ Captains are well versed in all of these things and happy to get you on the water and fishing for the catch you are looking to reel in! Contact us at (713) 724-9939 to book your fishing trip today.