gottafish
01-22-2006, 10:17 PM
http://www.acuteangling.com/Reference/C&RMortality.html
SilverFly
01-23-2006, 04:15 AM
Circle hooks rock!
--------
AndyK
01-23-2006, 06:25 AM
For certain types of fish, natural bait is a requirement for capture. The data reviewed show that the type of hook used can dramatically reduce the likelihood of deep hooking and lethal injury with natural bait. Use of the traditional “J” hook, shaped like the letter “J”, demonstrates a significantly higher risk of lethal injury than the recently adopted “circle” type hook. A white paper recently issued by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, provides detailed analysis and comparisons of hooks and recommends the use of circle hooks to minimize fish injury. Circle hooks, because of their recurved point, are unlikely to penetrate a fish until they lodge in the corner of the jaw, thus greatly increasing the likelihood of safe, shallow hooking and rarely result in deep hooking.
The primary advantage of circle hooks is when using bait. I personally would use circle hooks on a regular basis if they were available in more styles (such as a steelhead type hook, TMC 7999).