Best Hooks For Salmon Fishing

Sergio Smirnoff

Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!

If you love fishing for salmon, you know that using the right hooks is key to a successful outing. So you need to take a look at some of the best hooks for salmon fishing.

Best Hooks For Salmon Fishing Review

In this blog post, we will be discussing some of the top-rated hooks for salmon fishing. We will also provide tips on how to use these hooks successfully. So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced fisherman, this blog post is sure to help you out! Let’s get started…

1# Eagle Claw Model 038 Classic Salmon Egg Hook

Eagle Claw 038 Classic Salmon Egg Hook

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Specification

Color: Gold
Size: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12
Quantity: 10, 100

The Eagle Claw Classic Salmon Egg Hook is perfect for any angler looking to land a big one. With its offset design and up eye, this hook provides a great grip for your line, making it perfect for salmon egg or baitholder fishing. Made from high-quality materials, the Classic Salmon Egg Hook is strong and durable, sure to give you years of reliable use. So if you’re serious about your fishing, make sure to add the Eagle Claw Classic Salmon Egg Hook to your tackle box today.

Pros
  • It is made from steel with a bright copper finish

  • Hooks come in packs of 6

  • Each hook contains a sharp point, perfect for penetrating into the bottom of the salmon’s mouth during set-up

  • The size is ideal for catching Great Lakes salmon that are 25″-30″ long or Atlantic species such as rainbow trout which range between 16″—18″

Cons
  • Some people have had trouble with the point of the hook bending or breaking when fighting big salmon

2# Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp L1 Salmon/Steelhead Octopus Hook

Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp L1 Salmon Hook

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Specification

Size: 1/0, 2/0, 1, 3/0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10
Quantity: 40, 9, 10, 11, 12, 51, 54, 57, 63, 68, 46, 43, 70

Eagle Claw® Lazer Sharp® hooks are perfect for targeting salmon and steelhead on drop-shot rigs. Featuring an offset up-eye design and Lazer Sharp needlepoint, these hooks ensure sure jaw penetration when you need it most.

Pros
  • This hook has a ringed eye and an octopus barb

  • This hook is designed to be used with smaller diameter lines and small lures

Cons
  • Offset up-eye design can make it difficult to rig

3# Gamakatsu Salmon/Steelhead Snelled Leader

Gamakatsu Salmon Snelled Leader

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Specification

Color: Red
Size: 1/0, 3/3, 2/0, 3/0
Quantity: 3
Lb. Test: 10, 12, 15, 20, 30

Looking for a top-quality salmon or steelhead leader? The Gamakatsu Salmon/Steelhead Snelled Leader is just what you need. This premium leader features a needle-sharp Gamakatsu Octopus hook, 6′ of abrasion-resistant monofilament, and is the perfect rig for salmonoid fishing. With its high-quality construction, the Gamakatsu Salmon/Steelhead Snelled Leader will help you land the big one!

Pros
  • Abrasion-resistant monofilament

  • Needle-sharp Gamakatsu Octopus hook

  • 6′ of abrasion-resistant monofilament

Cons
  • It is not available in different sizes

4# Gamakatsu Slip Tie Mooching Rig

Gamakatsu Slip Tie Mooching Rig

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Specification

Size: 3/0, 4/0; 5/0, 6/0; 4/0, 5/0
Quantity: 3
Lb. Test: 25, 30, 40

This Gamakatsu Slip Tie Mooching Rig is perfect for salmon and steelhead fishing! It’s versatile enough for both whole baits and cut-plug baits, and it comes with a 6′ monofilament leader and 2 ultra-sharp hooks. Whether you’re using herring or anchovy, this rig is sure to bring in the fish!

Pros
  • Excellent hook point design

  • Great for largemouth, crappie, and trout

  • Provides strength in both casting and trolling applications

Cons
  • The hooks could be sharper

5# Mustad Salmon Egg Hooks Model 9263A

Mustad Salmon Egg Hooks 9263A

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Specification

Color: Gold
Size: 8, 10, 12
Quantity: 10

Salmon eggs are the perfect bait for trout, and these hooks from Mustad are the perfect way to fish them. The forged bend and reversed point give you great penetration, while the bait holder slice in the shank keeps your eggs securely in place. The turned-up small ball eye is easy to see, even in low light conditions, and the 24 karat gold plating adds just a touch of class. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these hooks will help you put more fish on the line. Order today and get ready for a successful season on the water!

Pros
  • The forged bend and reversed point give you great penetration

  • The bait holder slice in the shank keeps your eggs securely in place

  • The turned-up small ball eye is easy to see, even in low light conditions

  • The 24 karat gold plating adds just a touch of class

Cons
  • They’re a bit heavy

6# Pro-Troll Original Rotary Salmon Killer Rig

Pro-Troll Original Rotary Salmon

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Specification

Lb. Test: 40
Length: 7′

The Pro-Troll Rotary Salmon Killer Rig is just the thing you need to up your salmon fishing game. This rig features a free-swinging hook that pierces salmonid jaws easily, as well as a plastic clip to keep your bait secure. The diagonal fin on the rig delivers a rolling action that is sure to attract fish, while the free-swinging tail hook increases your chances of landing a big one. The 40-lb. leader with bead-chain swivel is also sure to stand up to whatever the fish throw at it. So don’t wait any longer, get yourself a Pro-Troll Rotary Salmon Killer Rig and start bringing in the big ones!

Pros
  • The diagonal fin on the rig delivers a rolling action that is sure to attract fish

  • The free-swinging tail hook increases your chances of landing a big one

  • The 40-lb. leader with bead-chain swivel is also sure to stand up to whatever the fish throw at it

Cons
  • This rig does not come with any bumpers but can be purchased separately

7# Gamakatsu Salmon/Steelhead Wet Fly Hook T10-6H

Gamakatsu Salmon Wet Fly Hook T10-6H

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Specification

Size: 1/0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8
Quantity: 10

Introducing the Gamakatsu Salmon/Steelhead Wet Fly Hook! This hook is perfect for tying your favourite salmon and steelhead fly patterns. It features a tapered bend and loop up-eye and is made of premium-grade high-carbon steel for durability. The chemically sharpened point ensures a precise, sharp point. 20 hooks are included in each pack.

Pros
  • Premium-grade high-carbon steel for durability

  • Chemically sharpened points for precise, sharp points

  • Tapered bend and loop up-eye

Cons
  • It may bend over time with heavy use

  • It could rust if exposed to moisture for extended periods of time

8# Gamakatsu Slip-Tie Mooching Rig Hooks

Gamakatsu Mooching Rig Hooks

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Specification

Color: Nickel
Size: 3/0, 4/0; 5/0, 6/0; 4/0, 5/0; 2/0, 3/0
Quantity: 3
Lb. Test: 20, 25, 30, 40
Length: 6′

Looking for an innovative and reliable mooching rig? Look no further than the Gamakatsu Slip-Tie Mooching Rig! Tied on 6′ leaders using premium monofilament, this rig is perfect for salmon anglers who prefer slip-tie rigging. The high Dacron polyester on the front hook prevents chafing or burning of the leader, while the two sharp Gamakatsu Octopus hooks provide excellent stickiness and durability. Get the Gamakatsu Slip-Tie Mooching Rig today and enjoy a hassle-free fishing experience!

Pros
  • It has high Dacron polyester on the front hook that prevents chafing or burning of the leader

  • They are great for slip-tie fishing style

  • They provide excellent stickiness and durability

Cons
  • The rig is not ideal for all fishing styles

9# Christenson’s Slammin’ Salmon Squid Rig

Christenson's Slammin' Salmon Squid Rig

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Specification

Quantity: 1
Lb. Test: 12
Length: 2″

Christenson’s Slammin’ Salmon Squid Rig is perfect for trolling for salmon. The bright UV-pigment coated body will make it easy to see your bait, while the irresistible skirt action will bring in the big ones. This rig is pre-rigged on premium 12-lb. monofilament with two red hooks, so it’s ready to use when you are!

Pros
  • Rigged perfectly for salmon

  • Very durable

  • Looks and feels natural in the water

  • High-quality material

Cons
  • Price

10# Christenson’s Mini Squid Rig

Christenson's Squid Rigs

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Specification

Quantity: 1
Length: 1-1/2″

Christenson’s Mini Squid Rig is the perfect choice for matching a downsized hatch or dealing with gin-clear water. Like the larger rigs, it features a bright UV-pigment coating for maximum visibility, plus irresistible skirt action. Pre-rigged on premium 12-lb. monofilament with two red hooks, this mini rig is ready to troll and bring in the big ones!

Pros
  • Bright UV-pigment coating for maximum visibility

  • Irresistible skirt action

  • Pre-rigged on premium 12-lb. monofilament

Cons
  • The hook is small for some fishermen

11# Mack’s Lure Wedding Ring Pro Spinner

Mack's Lure Wedding Ring Spinner

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Specification

Size: #1.1 Blade
Lb. Test: 10, 12
Length: 48″

Meet the Mack’s Lure Wedding Ring Pro Spinner, your new best friend for walleye and kokanee fishing. This tried-and-true favourite sports a super-stealthy design and a deadly Mack’s Smile Blade that is sure to land you some big catches. The bright, eye-catching “wedding ring” body insert is impossible for fish to resist, while the lightweight plastic multi-beads add just the right amount of flash. The 48″L mono leader with a single hook rounds out this versatile package, making it easy to add your favourite bait and get started fishing right away.

Pros
  • Super-stealthy design

  • Deadly Mack’s Smile Blade

  • Bright, eye-catching “wedding ring” body insert

  • Lightweight plastic multi-beads

Cons
  • The mono leader is only 48″ long

  • Single hook

12# Beau Mac Cheater Special

Beau Mac Cheater Special

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Specification

Size: 8, 10, 12
Lb. Test: 8, 10, 12

Are you looking to take down some river salmon or steelhead? Look no further than the Beau Mac Cheater Special. This easy-to-use rig comes rigged and ready to fish, so you can focus on reeling in your catch. Deadly on these fish, this classic is a must-have for any serious angler.

Pros
  • Great for beginners

  • Comes with a built-in landing net

  • Weighs only 2.6 ounces

  • Affordable price

Cons
  • It is suited only for small streams

13# Mack’s Lure Pee Wee Hoochie Rig

Mack's Lure Pee Wee Hoochie Rig

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Specification

Color: Green Splatter Glow
Lb. Test: 12
Length: 1-1/2″

Introducing the Mack’s Lure Pee Wee Hoochie Rig – a smaller version of the classic hoochie rig that’s perfect for catching kokanee, trout, and other salmonids. This UV-colored lure features glitter and a flowing skirt, plus two sharp hooks that are hidden beneath the surface. Thanks to its inviting squid-shaped profile, the Pee Wee Hoochie Rig is sure to attract fish of all sizes!

Pros
  • The Mack’s Lure Pee Wee Hoochie Rig is a smaller size than a regular hoochie rig, making it perfect for catching salmonids like trout and Kokanee

  • It features an attractive squid-shaped profile that will surely attract fish of all sizes

  • This lure also has two hooks on the bottom of the skirt, hidden underwater

Cons
  • Have to change hooks often

14# Beau Mac Cheater Special Rig

Beau Mac Cheater Special Rig

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Specification

Size: 1/0, #1
Lb. Test: 10, 12

Try the Beau Mac Cheater Special Rig! This pre-tied rig is perfect for salmonids, with a bright-coloured Cheater yarn that fish love. The 72″ leader is ideal for drifting or trolling, making it versatile and effective. Whether you’re drift fishing for steelhead or trolling for walleye, the Cheater Special Rig will help you reel in a big one!

Pros
  • Bright-coloured Cheater yarn that fish love

  • 72″ leader is ideal for drifting or trolling

  • Versatile and effective

Cons
  • It may not be effective in all situations

15# Howie’s Tackle Meat Rig

Howie's Tackle Meat Rig

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Specification

Lb. Test: 40
Length: 48″

Howie’s Tackle Meat Rig is the perfect tool for enticing those pesky fish to bite! The irresistible flash and stability of the bait will have them hooked in no time. Plus, it comes with a pre-tied 48″L, 40-lb. fluorocarbon leader and Gamakatsu 2X strong red #1 treble hook for an extra level of security.

Pros
  • It is durable and perfect for larger fishes

  • It is easy to use and helps keep your bait in place

  • It is a great choice for both saltwater and freshwater fishing

  • It is affordably priced and makes a great addition to any fisherman’s tackle box

Cons
  • The rig is not the best choice for smaller fish

16# Mack’s Lure Koke-A-Nut Glo Series Rig

Mack's Lure Koke-A-Nut Glo Rig

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Specification

Size: #4 Hook
Lb. Test: 14
Length: 36″

The Mack’s Lure Koke-A-Nut Glo Series Rig is a versatile and durable trout lure that is sure to attract confident strikes. Featuring a flowing, colourful skirt and a rubber body, this lure combines two of the greatest kokanee lures for an irresistible presentation. The tournament-proven Glo Hook adds to the fish-catching appeal, while the super-high UV and glow create a prismatic flash that is sure to draw attention.

Pros
  • Colourful

  • Flowing skirt

  • Rubber body

  • Tournament-proven Glo Hook

  • Super high UV and glow

Cons
  • Hook is shorter than others

  • Hooks are more easily deformed

FAQ

What colours do salmon see best?
Salmon can see a wide range of colours, so it’s hard to say which ones are the best. Generally, greens and reds are two of the most visible colours to them.
How do you bait a hook for salmon?
The best bait for salmon fishing depends on the kind of salmon you are trying to catch. For instance, while live bait works well for some people, others prefer using artificial lures. In general, however, most anglers use worms, shrimp or salmon eggs as bait when fishing for this type of fish.
What size hooks for king salmon?
King salmon are usually caught with a size 2 or size 4 hook.

Conclusion

Best Hooks For Salmon Fishing is an invaluable part of fishing for salmon. Getting the right hook can be difficult, so we’ve compiled a list of our top picks based on their popularity and customer reviews. We hope this article helps you in your search for finding the perfect hooks to make catching that big one easier!

Sergio Smirnoff
Sergio Smirnoff
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.

I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).

All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.

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About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!

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