Catfish Hook Size
Catfishing requires a lot more than picking up a random catfish hook and throwing some shrimp on the end. For a fisherman to be successful, they must learn about hook size and then determine the best catfish hook size for them.
Hook Size
Before going shopping for the perfect hook, it’s important to understand a thing or two about hook size. The lower the number, the larger the hook will be. For example, a number four hook will be bigger than a number six hook. Understand this will make it easier to shop for the perfect hook, especially those that are shopping online.
Remember the Fish
When catfishing, most people are out to catch the bigger fish, but those that are out for smaller or medium-sized fish are encouraged to remember that they have smaller mouths. If the hook is too big for them to fit into their mouths, they will attempt to steal the bait or will not bite it at all because it is too big. It is possible for a hook to be too big, but it is never possible for a hook to be too small.
Beginners Can Stick with One
Most catfishers recommend a standard sized 6 hook for fishing for medium-sized fish. Some have even caught smaller sized fish with this same size hook. Instead of overdoing it by purchasing several different hooks, and different hook sizes, stick with one in the beginning. There is so much to learn about catfishing it can be overwhelming. After some practice and more learning, pick up a variety of hooks and learn about each of them.
Bait is a Factor
Bait is another thing that fishermen need to consider when they decide which size hook to use. Smaller bait, like nightcrawlers, might not stay as well on a larger hook. Likewise, larger bait might seem to overpower smaller hooks and fall off easier. The size of the hook should match the size of the bait used. Some individuals that are experienced in catfishing declare that the presentation of the bait is just as important as the size of the hook. If the fish do not want the bait, it will not matter what the hook size is.
Don’t Forget Unhooking
When considering hook size, it’s important to remember that the hook must come out of the fish after it bites it. A smaller hook will easily get engulfed in a bigger fish’s mouth, which means reaching inside to get it back out. A larger hook, on the other hand, often leaves a little bit of room for the fisherman to grab the end of the hook, rotate it, and easily take it out of the mouth. Those that are just beginning and a bit wary about touching catfish might want to stick with a larger sized hook until they are more comfortable.
Understanding every aspect of catfishing, from using shrimp as bait to the appropriate hook size, is important for catfishers to learn how to catch the fish of their dreams.
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