Fishing Sea

I fish at a somewhat small lake. I've heard of people pulling 10-15lb catfish out of this lake.

Is a 4/0 circle hook too big for a catfish? I really don't want to limit myself to huge catfish only.

Well. No hook is really too big for a catfish. Eventually one big enough will find your bait and swallow it. But keep in mind that when using circle hooks you need to use a few sizes larger than what you would use in a j style hook. So if you used a 4/0 circle hook it would be like using a 2/0 j style. I typically like to use a 6/0 circle hook. Eagle claw makes them in a silver finish. I believe the finish is chrome. The hooks are small enough to fit in the mouth of an average size catfish (5 lbs) but strong enough to handle a real brute. They are sold in a pack of 50 and can be bought at your local Wal-Mart.

2008-08-15 18:47:46 by Wolf Mike

I know that it is easier to catch fish with it, but I just want to know if it is to be used for a specific type of fishing, i.e. bottom fishing?

2009-06-05 12:42:13 by mmsvt66

2009-06-10 20:13:00 by Tony S

Sometimes I just feel like sitting and waiting for the fish to come to me.So carp are a great fish to go for when I'm in that mood.At least once or twice when I go out for carp my rod will be leaning against a railing and the rod tip will bend but I miss the hook set cuz I'm not fully paying attention.I was wondering if I could use circle hooks for catching carp and would it translate into more luck with less misses?

Most of the carp are in the 1-5 pound range since I mainly fish ponds in my area.

I only do catch and release so don't go asking why I want to catch carp.

Also,what size circle hook should I be using if it's a viable option?

This is a perfect solution to your problem as the circle hook will set itself on the way OUT of the fishs' mouth, allowing you to sit back and finish what your doing instead of having to jump up upon the strike to set the hook correctly. These hooks are also really great for the catch and release enthusiasts as well, of which I am, because they very rarely will gut hook a fish, due to the hook setting itself on the way out of the mouth, therefore allowing for a much higher release mortality.

2008-08-10 16:29:35 by stickypyros2

I live in and fish in central Florida. I have recently started using Eagle Claw 1/0 circle hooks, but I miss way too many fish. My bait size is about 2in x 2in. If anyone knows of a better hook for fishing this way please let my know.

Try a 'Kahle' or 'Croaker' style hook, it's similar to a circle hook but it has a wider gap. They work great for cut, dead or live bait. good luck!

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2007-12-26 12:10:07 by mrrunty

What is the difference between offset and nonoffset circle hooks? Is one better than the other when fishing for catfish?

The only real difference is that while non-offset circle hooks catch in the mouth of the fish almost 100% of the time, offset circle hooks sometimes hook the fish deeper inside. So, if you want to release the fish unharmed, you'd better use non-offset circle hooks. Otherwise, if you want to keep them, it doesn't really matter. Just always remember NOT to set the hook. Good luck.

2009-02-01 17:11:11 by soccerman4