HOOK SIZES: Are YOU Using the WRONG Hook for Your Bait/Lure?
- By: Pat Ogletree
- on
Ever feel like hook sizes are written in some secret fishing code? You’re not alone. Here’s the truth: if you’re using the wrong hook size, you’re probably missing some fish.
But don’t worry—we’re about to clear up the confusion for good.
Hook Sizes
Let’s start with the basics. In standard hook sizes (no zero), the smaller the number, the bigger the hook. So, a size 1 is larger than a size 2. But when you get to “aught” hooks (like 2/0 or 3/0), it flips. With these, the bigger the number, the bigger the hook.
Confusing? It can be, but I break it down step by step in this video so you’ll never wonder about hook sizes again.
The Key to Choosing the Right Hook
Here’s the mistake many anglers make: they choose their hook size based on the fish they’re targeting. Sounds logical, right? But the truth is, your hook size should match your bait—not the fish.
Small baits like shrimp or 3-inch pilchards need smaller hooks to keep them swimming naturally. Bigger baits like finger mullet require larger hooks to penetrate the bait and secure the catch.
And it’s not just live bait—this rule applies to soft plastics, too. Choosing the wrong hook size can ruin your presentation and cost you fish.
Still confused? You’re not alone. Sizing your hooks is one of the most common issues I see with beginner and experienced anglers alike. But once you get it, your hookup rate will improve dramatically.
👉 Watch the video below to find out.
If you’re serious about catching more fish, don’t forget to check out our Salt Strong Fishing School. We’ll show you exactly how to find where the fish are biting and how to catch them with confidence.
Got questions? Drop them in the comments, and I’ll get back to you. Tight lines, and I’ll see you out on the water!
Related categories:
STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish ever trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).
STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish every trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).
Pat – whether you are new or seasoned, it is always good to go back to the basics once in a while and this was a great video for both the new fisherman and the seasoned fisherman. Thanks for reminding Christopher of that and hopefully comments that add NO VALUE to our members would be kept to themselves. (Note: My old English teacher is rolling over in her grave right now). Maybe you can do a grammar lesson in the future 🙂
Thanks for the info. Well presented. My problem always comes with the soft plastic hooks and fishing for snapper. It just seems like they never/rarely get the hook which I assume is due to the hook size compared to mouth size. Why do none of these hooks come smaller than 3/0? Or is there a different issue that I am overlooking?
Nice job Pat, your videos are always very informative!
could not have put it better myself. Well done Pat. Hope everyone understand what you have said and put it to work for yourself. tight lines
Only Dambass may ave problem with sizes!
No one is born with this knowledge and there’s new anglers every day. That’s why we make videos like this, so the beginning angler is not forgotten.
Nicely done Pat
Thanks Dan!
Thank you Pat. Great explanation
Appreciate it Randall!
Great presentation Pat….
Thank you Chris!
Thanks Pat great information
Thanks Ted!
As always good information Pat, I use cut-bait. Do the same rules apply here?
Yes, you’ll want to make sure your hook is large enough to go through the cut bait. Because the bait isn’t swimming around, you can err to the side of a larger hook if needed.