Best Hooks For Surf 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!

Surf fishing is a favourite pastime of many fishermen. While there are many ways to go about it, using the right hooks is essential for success. In this post, we’ll share our top picks for the best hooks for surf fishing.

Best Hooks For Surf Fishing Review

We’ll take a look at some of the best hooks for surf fishing. We’ll also discuss how to choose the right hook for your needs. So, whether you’re a novice fisherman or an experienced angler, read on for some helpful tips!

1# Mustad UltraPoint Model 39951NP-BN Demon Circle In-line Hook

Mustad UltraPoint 39951NP-BN Demon Hook

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Specification

Color: Black Nickel
Size: 2/0, 7/0, 8/0, 6/0, 5/0, 4/0, 3/0
Quantity: 25, 100

When you’re looking for an outstanding general-purpose live-bait hook, the Mustad UltraPoint Model 39951NP-BN Demon Circle In-line Hook is tough to beat. It features an extra-wide bend, chemically sharpened Opti-Angle Needle Point, and Nor-tempered fine-wire construction, making it up to 30% stronger than competing hooks. The in-line point with the ringed eye is tournament approved and perfect for your next fishing excursion.

Pros
  • The UltraPoint design delivers ultra-sharp performance and improved hookups

  • A chemically sharpened point is extremely sharp and stays sharper longer

  • The black nickel finish resists corrosion and provides a stealthy presentation

  • Forged from high-carbon steel for superior strength

Cons
  • The barb can be difficult to remove from the fish’s mouth

2# Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp L197 Circle Sea Offset Circle Hook

Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp L197 Sea Offset Hook

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Specification

Color: Sea Guard, Platinum Black Plus
Size: 2/0, 7/0, 5/0, 4/0, 3/0
Quantity: 8, 6, 40, 100, 20

Eagle Claw’s Lazer Sharp L197 Circle Sea Offset Circle Hook is perfect for live bait rigs and trotlines! This light wire needlepoint hook has a large ringed eye for easy bait attachment, and its offset design provides greater holding power. The durable Sea Guard finish helps reduce fish mortality, while the light wire construction makes it easy to set the hook.

Pros
  • Super sharp

  • Durable

  • Strong

  • Easy to bait

Cons
  • Algae build-up

3# Eagle Claw 254 O’Shaughnessy Hooks

Eagle Claw 254 O'Shaughnessy Hooks

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Specification

Color: Sea Guard
Size: 1/0, 2/0, 7/0, 8/0, 6/0, 5/0, 4/0, 3/0
Quantity: 100

Looking for a hook that can handle anything you throw its way? Look no further than the Eagle Claw 254 O’Shaughnessy Hook. This tough little hook is perfect for trotlines or as a spinnerbait trailer hook, and it’s made right here in the USA. The sharp points and consistent construction make this hook a must-have in any tackle box. So don’t wait – grab a few Eagle Claw 254 O’Shaughnessy Hooks today and see what all the fuss is about!

Pros
  • Strong and durable

  • Variety of sizes for different applications

  • Sharp and precise

Cons
  • Sometimes the barb doesn’t line up properly

4# Gamakatsu Round Bend Worm Hooks

Gamakatsu Bend Worm Hooks

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Specification

Color: Bronze
Size: 1/0, 2/0, 4/0, 3/0
Quantity: 25

Look at the Gamakatsu Round Bend Worm Hooks. The sliced shank design holds plastics securely in place, while the tempered bronze construction provides strength and durability. Plus, the low-profile design ensures a wide bite. Whether you’re fishing for bass, walleye or catfish, these hooks are sure to help you land the big one.

Pros
  • Hooks have a round bend, which is great for fishermen who tie their own line since the hook will not catch on the fly or leader material

  • Hooks are made of high-quality steel and are rust-resistant for up to 80 years, making them one of the last hooks you’ll buy

  • The hook’s sharp point penetrates easily yet holds fish securely so they can be brought in quickly without damaging their mouth and scales

Cons
  • Gamakatsu Round Bend Worm Hooks are more expensive than some other brands

5# Gamakatsu Circle Octopus Hooks

Gamakatsu Octopus Hooks

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Specification

Color: NS Black
Size: 1/0, 2/0, 1, 7/0, 8/0, 6/0, 5/0, 4/0, 3/0, 2, 4, 6, 8
Quantity: 25, 6, 8, 10

Gamakatsu Circle Octopus Hooks are forged from high carbon steel and tempered for superior strength, durability, and quality. These hooks are super-sharp with a conically honed needlepoint, making them great for live bait fishing in both fresh- and saltwater.

Pros
  • The hooks are made of stainless steel and nickel finish, providing a great corrosion resistance

  • The eye is larger than most fishing hooks

  • Gamakatsu Octopus Hooks have 33mm for improved penetration

Cons
  • The point is not as sharp as other hooks

  • They are a bit pricey

6# Offshore Angler Light Wire Circle Hooks

Offshore Angler Wire Hooks

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Specification

Color: Black Nickel
Size: 7/0, 8/0, 6/0, 5/0
Quantity: 25

When you need a hook that can handle any fish, you need an Offshore Angler™ Light Wire Circle Hook. These hooks are precision-crafted with light wire and needle-sharp points to puncture any lip. So when the bite is on, you can be sure your hook will hold fast.

Pros
  • Strength: The hooks are made with light wire, making them incredibly strong and able to handle any fish

  • Precision crafting: The hooks are precision crafted to be incredibly sharp and puncture any lip easily

  • Variety: The Offshore Angler Light Wire Circle Hooks come in a variety of sizes to suit your needs

Cons
  • It may not be strong enough for bigger fish

7# VMC Tournament Circle B-Lok Hook

VMC Tournament B-Lok Hook

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Specification

Color: Coastal Black
Size: 7/0, 8/0, 6/0, 9/0, 5/0
Quantity: 6, 5, 50

With the VMC Tournament Circle B-Lok Hook, you can keep your bait in the perfect spot for hookups! This strong and durable hook is made of forged Vanadium steel and has a needlepoint point for easy penetration. The extra-wide gap ensures a solid hookset, while the inline design keeps the bait from moving up or down the shank.

Pros
  • Sharp point for easy penetration

  • Strong wire for a good hook up ratio

  • Ideal for both fresh and saltwater

Cons
  • The wire could be a little bit stronger

8# Gamakatsu Octopus Hooks

Gamakatsu Hooks Octopus

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Specification

Size: 7/0, 9/0, 4/0, 3/0, 10/0, 1/0, 2/0, 1, 8/0, 6/0, 5/0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10
Quantity: 8, 10, 6, 25, 7, 5

Gamakatsu Octopus Hooks are the perfect choice for anglers who demand the best in terms of strength and versatility. These hooks are constructed from high-quality materials for outstanding durability and feature an offset bend and extremely sharp point for quick jaw penetration. Whether you’re targeting inshore or offshore species, Gamakatsu Octopus Hooks are up to the task. Choose from a variety of sizes to match your preferred technique and fishing conditions.

Pros
  • Durable Material: made from chromium steel, the Gamakatsu Octopus Hook is sturdy for use in rough surf fishing conditions

  • Good Appearance: these hooks are attractive and blend well with your favourite lures. They look great when used for bait presentation

Cons
  • It may be hard to sharpen if this hook is used frequently

9# Mustad Worm Hook

Mustad Worm Hook

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Specification

Color: Blue
Size: 1/0, 2/0, 3/0
Quantity: 100

The Mustad Worm Hook is the perfect choice for anglers who want a reliable and effective hook for their fishing needs. This hook features 2 slices in the shank, which ensures that your worms stay firmly in place. The ringed eye also helps to keep your line securely in place, so you can focus on landing your next big catch. With its sharp point and durable construction, the Mustad Worm Hook is sure to help you reel in plenty of fish.

Pros
  • It is a reliable and effective hook

  • Features 2 slices in the shank to keep worms in place

  • A ringed eye helps keep the line securely in place

  • Sharp point ensures quick and easy penetration

  • Durable construction for long-lasting use

Cons
  • It is more expensive than other selections

  • The sharp point can easily get bent or become dull

10# Tru-Turn Freshwater Hooks 722BL

Tru-Turn Freshwater Hooks 722BL

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Specification

Color: Permasteel
Size: 1/0, 1, 6/0, 5/0, 4/0
Quantity: 43, 38, 23, 40, 34

Looking for a top-quality catfish hook that can withstand the elements? Look no further than the Tru-Turn Freshwater Hook. This hook is forged from super-strong steel and features a medium-large eye. It’s also been finished with PermaSteel, an earth-friendly finish that is extremely resistant to corrosion. So whether you’re fishing in fresh or saltwater, you can be confident that your Tru-Turn Freshwater Hook will perform beautifully.

Pros
  • The hooks are made of high-quality materials for outstanding durability

  • They have a sharp point for quick jaw penetration

  • The ringed eye helps keep the line securely in place

  • Tru-Turn hooks are available in a variety of sizes to match your preferred technique and fishing conditions

Cons
  • The sharp point can easily get bent or become dull

11# Eagle Claw 084/089 Plain Shank Hooks

Eagle Claw 084/089 Shank Hooks

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Specification

Size: 1/0, 2/0, 1, 3/0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12
Quantity: 10, 8, 50, 100

The Eagle Claw 084/089 Plain Shank Hook has a perfect combination of strength, design, and performance, this hook is ideal for a variety of live bait applications. Featuring an ultrasharp point and consistent construction, the Eagle Claw 084/089 Plain Shank Hook will help you land that big catch!

Pros
  • Durable

  • Affordable

  • Sharp Hooks

Cons
  • Hooks are too sharp and can easily hurt fingers

12# Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp Down Eye Baitholder Hooks L181

Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp Baitholder Hooks L181

View on Bassproshops

Specification

Color: Bronze
Size: 2, 4, 6, 8
Quantity: 10, 50

The Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp Down Eye Baitholder Hooks are the perfect choice for a wide variety of plastic worm applications. With their ultra-sharp points and consistent construction, these hooks offer the perfect combination of strength, design, and performance. Additionally, the offset design and forged construction make them ideal for a variety of worm techniques. Lastly, the bronze finish gives them a professional look that is sure to please.

Pros
  • Strong and sharp

  • Offset design

  • Professional bronze finish

Cons
  • Not the best option for all types of worm

13# Offshore Angler Octopus Beak Hooks

Offshore Angler Octopus Beak Hooks

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Specification

Color: Black Nickel
Size: 7/0, 6/0
Quantity: 25

Looking for an edge in your next offshore fishing expedition? Then you need to try out Offshore Angler’s™ Octopus Beak Hooks. These precision-crafted hooks are needle-sharp, making them perfect for live bait. And with their black nickel finish, they’ll be sure to blend in with the surrounding environment. Best of all, these hooks come in a 25 pack, so you’re never caught short when it comes time to reel in that big one!

Pros
  • Best hooks for surf fishing

  • Needle-sharp and black nickel-finished, you’ll never lose sight of these hooks in the water

  • Comes in a pack of 25, so you’re never caught short when it comes time to reel in that big one

Cons
  • They do not have a wide variety of uses

FAQ

What size hook is best for sea fishing?
When you are looking for sea fishing hooks, you’ll need to consider the size of the fish you’ll be catching. Usually, the size 1/0 or 2/0 hooks are suitable for sea fishing. But you should pay attention to the species you want to catch.
Are Circle Hooks good for surf fishing?
Circle hooks are good for surf fishing because they help to reduce the amount of fish that are caught and released. Circle hooks also help to catch more fish because they hook the fish in the mouth instead of in the gut.
Can you catch big fish with small hooks?
Yes, you can catch big fish with small hooks, but it depends on the size of the fish. Small hooks are generally used for smaller fish, while larger hooks are better suited for larger fish. However, there are some exceptions – some larger fish can be caught with smaller hooks, while some smaller fish can be caught with larger hooks. It all depends on the situation and what type of bait you’re using.

Conclusion

Surf fishing can be a great way to spend a day by the water, and it’s especially fun when you have the right gear. In this article, we’ve shared our picks for the best hooks for surf fishing. We’ve also included some tips on how to use them so that you can start catching fish right away. Thanks for reading, and good luck in the surf!

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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Allabi Tuerna
Allabi Tuerna
2 months ago

Great article! If you’re looking for the perfect hooks for surf fishing, this is the place to start. I’m sure any angler would appreciate these tips and tricks for getting the best out of their fishing trip.

Bryert
Bryert
2 months ago

For this kind of fishing would be good hooks a regular straight shank Mustad 34007 is a great option, however, you will need to set the hook each time. For an easier experience, circle or octopus hooks are a better choice. The Owner MTU circle comes in sizes 1, 1/0, 2/0, and 3/0 and can be used for larger fish. For smaller catches, try using the Mustad 92553 in sizes 4 and 2.

Prandel
Prandel
2 months ago

If you’re getting bites but not landing them when surf fishing, try downsizing your hooks. Small plate-sized fish require sizes 4 to 1/0, while large plate size requires sizes 1/0 to 4/0. While it is possible to catch big fish on small hooks, it can be more difficult to catch small fish on larger hooks.

Finlark
Finlark
2 months ago

When fishing for striped bass, use a 5/0 inline circle hook with eels and an 8/0 for chunks of bunker or any other chunk bait. For worms, a 3/0 will work but ensure it is heavy-duty. Match the hook size to the bait size–for porgy, fluke, sea bass, tog, etc., there is no need to go over a 3/0. 

Options include hooks, bait holders, and octopus hooks. To determine the necessary weight, 1.5 to 3 oz should be sufficient in most situations. If fishing in heavy surf with a rod that can handle it, you can use weights between 4-8 oz; however, this requires using a strong rod.

Haltu Snafflo
Haltu Snafflo
2 months ago

To increase your chances of catching a fluke, equip your rig with a high/low set-up. Keep the hooks 12-18″ apart with a loop at the bottom for a bank sinker and use 4/0 or 5/0 baitholder hooks for each dropper loop and bait it with 4″ or 5″ gulp swimming mullet in white. Retrieve it slowly as you drag along the bottom. For striper fishing, use one 5/0 or 6/0 circle hook baited with fresh clam or bunker chunks.

Griklo
Griklo
2 months ago

When surf fishing, circle hooks are the way to go as they will self-set if a fish grabs the bait and runs off. To stay up-to-date on what kind of bait is used in the area, check out your local tackle shops. Pyramid sinkers are good for holding in place but can be tricky when something steals your bait or you make a bad cast. 

Ornoco Alodo
Ornoco Alodo
2 months ago

If you’re fishing in North Carolina, it’s likely the rig you described is too large. Instead, opt for a 1-2oz rig with hooks as small as #2-#4 (not 2/0-4/0). Cast into the suds between the low and high tide lines and look for fish in shallow water, up to two feet deep.