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.
Don’t Let the Big One Get Away: How to Choose the Best Hook for Salmon Fishing
Salmon fishing can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but finding the right hooks for the job can be a challenge. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right hook for the job.
That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to hooks for salmon fishing. From the best materials to the right sizes and styles, we’ll help you find the perfect hook to reel in your next catch.
Don’t Get Hooked Up on Hook Selection: Tips for Successful Salmon Fishing
A hook for salmon fishing is a specialized tool that is used to catch salmon. It is typically made of metal, such as stainless steel or high-carbon steel, and comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common types of hooks for salmon fishing are single hooks, double hooks, and treble hooks.
Single hooks are the most simple and straightforward type of hook, featuring a single, pointed end that is designed to penetrate the fish’s mouth. Double hooks, as the name suggests, feature two pointed ends, while treble hooks have three. The size and shape of the hook will depend on the type of salmon you are fishing for, as well as the specific fishing conditions.
Hooks for salmon fishing can also be either barbed or barbless. Barbed hooks feature a small, backward-facing barb on the tip of the hook, which is designed to prevent the fish from escaping once it has been hooked. Barbless hooks, on the other hand, do not have this barb, making them easier to remove from the fish’s mouth and reducing the risk of injury to the fish.
From Hooks to Cooks: How to Select and Use the Best Hook for Salmon Fishing
➤Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right hook for your next salmon fishing adventure:
- Size: The size of the hook should match the size of the bait or lure you are using. If the hook is too small, the salmon may not be able to get a good grip on it, while if it’s too large, the fish may be hesitant to bite.
- Shape: Different hook shapes work better for different types of bait or lures. For example, a J-hook is good for live bait, while a treble hook is better for artificial lures.
- Strength: Salmon are strong fish, so you’ll want a hook that can withstand the fight. Look for a hook made from strong, durable materials, such as stainless steel or high-carbon steel.
- Barbed or Barbless: Consider whether you want a barbed or barbless hook. Barbless hooks are easier to remove from the fish’s mouth and are often required by law in certain areas to prevent damage to the fish.
- Fishing Conditions: The type of hook you choose will depend on the fishing conditions. If you’re fishing in deep water, for example, you may want a larger hook to help penetrate the fish’s mouth, while if you’re fishing in shallow water, a smaller hook may be more effective.
16 Hooks : The Art of Choosing the Right Hook for Salmon Fishing
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.
As any seasoned angler knows, salmon are notoriously strong and slippery fish, and without the proper equipment, catching them can be a real challenge. That’s where the hook comes in a well-chosen hook can mean the difference between a successful day on the water and go home empty-handed.
But with so many hooks on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? From single hooks to treble hooks, barbless to barbed, the choices can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of hooks for salmon fishing and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
We’ll cover everything from hook size and shape to material and design, and provide tips for choosing the perfect hook for your next salmon fishing adventure. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, read on to learn more about the importance of choosing the right hook for salmon fishing.
1# Eagle Claw Model 038 Classic Salmon Egg Hook
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.
2# Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp L1 Salmon/Steelhead Octopus Hook
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.
3# Gamakatsu Salmon/Steelhead Snelled Leader
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!
4# Gamakatsu Slip Tie Mooching Rig
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!
5# Mustad Salmon Egg Hooks Model 9263A
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!
6# Pro-Troll Original Rotary Salmon Killer Rig
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!
7# Gamakatsu Salmon/Steelhead Wet Fly Hook T10-6H
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.
8# Gamakatsu Slip-Tie Mooching Rig Hooks
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!
9# Christenson’s Slammin’ Salmon Squid Rig
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!
10# Christenson’s Mini Squid Rig
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!
11# Mack’s Lure Wedding Ring Pro Spinner
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.
12# Beau Mac Cheater Special
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.
13# Mack’s Lure Pee Wee Hoochie Rig
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!
14# Beau Mac Cheater Special Rig
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!
15# Howie’s Tackle Meat Rig
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.
16# Mack’s Lure Koke-A-Nut Glo Series Rig
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.
FAQ – Hooked on Salmon Fishing: Why the Right Hook Matters
Unlocking the Secrets of Salmon Fishing: The Importance of Hook Selection
There are various types of hooks available on the market, each designed for different techniques and situations. Factors such as the size of the salmon, water conditions, and the type of bait used should be considered when selecting the best hook for your needs. Popular hook types for salmon fishing include J-hooks, circle hooks, treble hooks, and single hooks.
In conclusion, selecting the appropriate hook for salmon fishing can make all the difference in your success on the water. Understanding the various hook types and their intended uses is crucial in choosing the best hook for your needs. It is important to keep in mind that using the right hook is only one piece of the puzzle. Factors such as technique, timing, and location should also be considered when aiming to catch salmon. With the right combination of factors and a little bit of luck, you can increase your chances of a successful day on the water.
Best hooks 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!
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).
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I wanted to share some tips on how to choose the right gear for fishing on the SR. First things first, it’s important to consider when and where you’ll be fishing, as this will determine what type of equipment you’ll need.
Right now, the majority of salmon in the river have just started entering in the last couple of weeks, thanks to cool nights, rainfall, and wind direction. When it comes to gear, I personally prefer using a 13-foot centrepin rod and reel, but if you’re new to salmon fishing, a spinning rod may be a better option for you.
For the rod, I recommend looking for one that’s at least 10 feet long and made by a reputable brand like Raven, Shimano, or St. Croix. A line rating of 8lb-20lb is ideal. Raven makes some great float rods that work well with either spinning or center pin reels. They even have a new rod designed specifically for salmon fishing. As for the reel, if you’re confident, you could try a centrepin reel from Okuma or Raven, but otherwise, a reel with a lot of line capacity will do. A mainline of 12lb-15lb is best for targeting salmon. For leaders, I suggest using fluorocarbon, with two different strengths – 8lb-10lb for dirty water and 6lb for clear water.
When it comes to hooks, regular hooks like Raven sedge, specialist, or Kamasan egg hooks work well. Sizes between 6-10 are ideal. As for bait, beads in sizes of 6, 8, or 10mm, flies like wool buggers or egg patterns, skein cured with Pautzke fire cure, and roe bags are all great options.
If you’re fishing in the estuary, casting spoons early in the morning or late at night is your best bet for success. Look for spoons like Moonshine or Little Cleos that glow. Large Rapalas in a firetiger pattern, kwikfish, and loud crankbaits also work well. For fishing upriver, float fishing with a medium-sized float of around 4-8 grams is ideal, depending on the river’s CFS and flow. Staggering your shot will help achieve a more natural presentation. While fishing for salmon, keep in mind that you may also hook steelhead, brown trout, Atlantics, and coho salmon, but chinook salmon will likely be the main focus. Good luck out there!
Owner is a well-respected brand in the fishing world, known for their high-quality fishing hooks. One of their most popular products is the Owner Mosquito Hook. This hook is incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of freshwater and saltwater fish species.
One of the key features of the Owner Mosquito Hook is its sharpness. This hook is incredibly sharp right out of the package, which makes it easy to set the hook and ensures a solid hookset. Additionally, the hook is made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant steel that ensures it will hold up well in saltwater environments.
The Owner Mosquito Hook is available in a wide range of sizes, which makes it easy to find the perfect size for your specific fishing needs. It is also available in both black chrome and red finishes, which allows you to choose the hook color that will best match your bait or lure.
The Owner SSW Cutting Point Hook is an excellent choice for salmon fishing enthusiasts. This hook is specifically designed to target salmon and can be used in both freshwater and saltwater environments. It is made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant steel that ensures it will hold up well in harsh saltwater environments.
One of the key features of the Owner SSW Cutting Point Hook is its cutting point. This hook features a super sharp, precision cutting point that ensures a solid hookset every time. Additionally, the hook has a wide gap, which provides ample room for larger bait or lures.
The Owner SSW Cutting Point Hook is available in a wide range of sizes, which makes it easy to find the perfect size for your specific fishing needs. It is also available in both black chrome and red finishes, which allows you to choose the hook color that will best match your bait or lure.
I have come across a variety of fishing hooks that serve different purposes. For instance, circle hooks are perfect for slow-moving fish and bottom fishing as they only bite in the corner of the fish’s mouth. When using this hook, I have found that it is essential to start reeling to set the hook and then lean back to add pressure to drive it in further.
J hooks, on the other hand, are a versatile option that can be used in almost any fishing scenario. However, they tend to gut hook the fish if left to take the bait, so it’s crucial to use them responsibly. I have also found that offset/wide-gap worm hooks are ideal for soft plastics to keep the hook tip buried and weedless.
When it comes to my favorite hook, I would have to choose Kahle hooks. These modified hooks are small and sturdy, and provide an excellent blend of the circle and J hooks. I use them for striper fishing and live bait fishing. Additionally, treble hooks are perfect for fast-hitting fish like kings, spanish, and wahoos. Ultimately, choosing the right hook comes down to the species you’re targeting and the fishing scenario you’re in.
When it comes to fishing hooks, I have a few favorites that I use depending on the situation. For treble hooks, I find them to be a bit of a pain as they tend to snag on everything. On the other hand, long shank hooks work really well for worms and aren’t as prone to deep hooking as short shank hooks. If I’m using live bait like minnows or shiners, I prefer small short shank hooks.
Now, let’s talk about circle hooks. These are the ones with the large curves. I love using circle hooks because they don’t require you to set the hook yourself. You just let the fish take the bait and the hook will set itself. Non-offset circle hooks are great for hooking fish in the corners of their mouths but offset circles have a better hookup ratio. However, offset circles can sometimes get a bad hookset inside the fish’s mouth.
Lastly, I use offset/wide-gap worm hooks for soft plastics. These hooks are designed to bury the hook tip to keep it weedless. They work really well and are ideal for fishing in areas with lots of weeds or vegetation.
I’ve encountered a vast array of hook types throughout my years of fishing, and I can say that the possibilities are endless. However, for those who are just starting, here are some of the basic hook types you’ll likely come across while freshwater fishing on a boat:
The bait hook or J-hook is a general-purpose hook used for holding baits such as worms, bugs, and other similar baits.
The wide gap or extra-wide gap hook is commonly used for bass fishing with soft plastic baits.
The worm hook is another type of hook commonly used for bass fishing, paired with soft plastic worms.
The circle hook or octopus hook is often used for catfish (circle hook) or trout and salmon (octopus hooks) to prevent the fish from swallowing the hook as frequently, and they don’t require a hard hook set.
The treble hook is typically used on lures but can also be used alone for species like salmon, trout, catfish, etc. However, do check local regulations because they may not be allowed everywhere.
It’s also important to note that most of these hook types come in different subtypes, such as molded weights for jig heads, weighted bellies, and so on.
Hook sizes vary greatly depending on the type and manufacturer, and there is no governing body that regulates hook sizes. However, two commonly used measurements are sizes and aughts.
“Sizes” range from Size 1 to Size 30, with Size 1 being the largest of the group and 30 being the tiniest. On the other hand, “aughts” range from 1/0, which is slightly larger than a Size 1 hook, up to 27/0 or so, which is what they use to catch enormous fish like sharks.
Barbed hooks hold fish better but also cause more damage to them. As a result, many fisheries prohibit the use of barbed hooks. Barbless hooks, while causing less damage, resulting in more lost fish.
When choosing a hook, it’s essential to consider the size of the fish’s mouth. In general, the smaller the fish’s mouth, the smaller the hook needs to be. Furthermore, the “wire weight” of the hook is also crucial. Thin wire hooks tend to set more quickly, while heavy wire hooks are stronger but require more effort to set.
In summary, finding the perfect hook is all about balance and practice.
As a fellow angler from Sacramento, I have a friend who loves to fish in the Sailor Bar area. He typically starts with a lure before sunrise and then switches to a bead-plunking setup once the sun is up.
One thing to note is that this area is a barbless area, so it’s crucial to use barbless hooks or pinch down the barb on any hooks you plan to use.
It’s also important to avoid using very large hooks with the plunking rig, as it can make it more challenging to hook the fish. Overall, Sailor Bar is a great spot for fishing, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a good fishing experience.
I highly recommend circle hooks for those struggling with fish swallowing their hooks. The beauty of circle hooks is that you don’t need to set the hook, simply apply pressure and wait for the fish to take it.
For those using live bait, I would suggest long-shank Aberdeen hooks. They work great for any species you may come across and make removing the hook a breeze. Although they won’t necessarily prevent fish from swallowing the hook, going up a size can help minimize this issue.
Recently, I came across some boxes of salmon and steelhead hooks that I had picked up at a yard sale. However, since I don’t have the opportunity to do any salmon or steelhead fishing in my area, I’m not sure what to do with these hooks. As a novice tier, I’d like to know what more experienced tiers would suggest I could do with these hooks. The hooks come in various sizes, and I’m open to any ideas.
Here is a list of some of the best hooks for salmon fishing:
These are just a few examples of the many great hooks available for salmon fishing. It is important to choose the right hook for your specific fishing situation and to make sure that the hook is sharp and strong enough to handle the size of fish you are targeting.