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Hook Type/Size for Bluegill #10961190 07/07/15 02:02 PM
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Scruffy Fisher Offline OP
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I have a question about hook type/size for bluegill. I want to make sure I'm using the correct setup and new to fishing for gills, as you can see.

I have some plain shank and Aberdeen size 6 and 8 hooks. Is this what I should be using? A few weeks back, I used the dried bacon fat tip and I could see the gills coming over to the bait and trying to take it. However, only one could actually take the hook to where it could be reeled in. Not sure if it was due to the size of the bluegills, hook, or both. I'm wanting to take my 6 year old son out for some bank fishing, but want to have the right equipment first.

Feel free to post a link/photos of the hooks you recommend.

Thanks for the help! smirk

Last edited by Scruffy Fisher; 07/07/15 02:27 PM.
Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10961213 07/07/15 02:09 PM
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I would reccomend either 8 or 10 for size and preferably a long shank as it is easier to remove . Went with Waco Kid and he was using 1/64 ounce jig heads . Live crickets were what they wanted that day . Good luck

Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10961267 07/07/15 02:34 PM
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Smithaven Offline
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The number 8 gold Aberdeen hook or the number 10 long shank cricket hook should both be perfect.

Since you are new to the sunfish fraternity you may want to read my TEXAS SUNFISH BLOG for tips on tackle and bait.

You are probably using a too large bait for the dinks. Try fishing a little deeper for bigger fish.


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Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10962877 07/08/15 03:54 AM
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Jon Offline
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Also, don't discount the possibility of a dull hook. Brand new hooks right out of the box can be dull. Get you a little diamond rod hook sharpener or even a little pocket "whetstone" aka carborundum stone. I like to sharpen all mine up to where they're sharp like a needle and when pushed onto a thumb nail at a 45 degree angle will dig in and not slide off. You'd be surprised what a difference this can make on hook up ratios. As others have said, too big of a piece of bait can be a problem. I really like the long shank cricket hooks for any sunfish when using bait. They can still swallow one if you wait to long to set the hook, but not near as bad as the little short aberdeen hooks. I use size 6 cricket hooks to keep the smaller ones off, but your hook ups on the smaller fish would probably improve with a size 8 or even size 10 if your wanting the kiddo to catch a bunch. Good luck and hope you guys have a blast!

Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10964224 07/08/15 08:18 PM
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I use a size 6 cricket hook! Great worm hook. hooked


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Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10964327 07/08/15 09:14 PM
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Usually don't fish for Gills but when I do I use a size 8 hook!

Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10964555 07/08/15 11:15 PM
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Has anyone tried small circle hooks? I wonder if they would work on gills as well as they do on other species.


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Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: ChuChu1] #10965252 07/09/15 11:35 AM
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Originally Posted By: ChuChu1
Has anyone tried small circle hooks? I wonder if they would work on gills as well as they do on other species.


I have tried small circle hooks without much success. An Aberdeen or a long shanked hook proportionate to the size of the fish is the best bet. If the fish run 9-10 inches, use a #6. For mid-size use a #8, and for 4-5 inch fish a #10 is best.


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Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10965940 07/09/15 04:34 PM
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Scruffy Fisher Offline OP
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Thanks for the help and feedback! We had some good fortune with 3 hours of multiple catches (and release) on my son's last day before turning 6. He said it was his best day being 5.


Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10966321 07/09/15 07:14 PM
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Laker One Offline
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I love the eights!

Re: Hook Type/Size for Bluegill [Re: Scruffy Fisher] #10966324 07/09/15 07:14 PM
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Originally Posted By: Scruffy Fisher
Thanks for the help and feedback! We had some good fortune with 3 hours of multiple catches (and release) on my son's last day before turning 6. He said it was his best day being 5.








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