Hey guys, as some of yall saw, i posted a reported earlier from this morning, what i forgot to mention was that i spent a good 30 minutes being frustrated before i left, the fish were still biting like crazy, but i couldnt set a hook for a half an hour, ever fish either got hooked and came off shortly after, or wouldn't get hooked at all, this happened a few times during the early part of the day, but got really bad at the end.

I also went out to bear creek tonight to do a little more fishing had a similar problem, i found on average i was having to try to set the hook 6-10 times before i got hooked up.

I'm guessing my hook was too big? I use the pre-snelled #6 eagle claw hooks (simply because i had them already, i usually tie my own hooks.) i tried using all different size pieces of worm thinking my pieces were too big and they were biting the worm and not the hook, but even when i went to a piece just big enough to get on the hook, i still missed the fish.

So is hook size probably the culprit

Try a size 8. I use the Cricket type hooks with the long shaft. This helps prevent a lot of gut hooks. Also relax and have some fun. Remember you will get your fare share of em. Missing some fish is always going to happen. Also try keeping a tighter line and not have a lot of slack out. The more you fish the better you will get. Remember keep having fun while learning.

Our 8yo DD is a master at catching sunnies with her less than 2' Barbie pole... it's downright embarrassing... but she hasn't a clue what it is she does really so can't explain worth doodly.

Smaller hooks. 6lb test. Graphite rod. Tight line and be a line watcher.

Relax and have fun! Try using a smaller hook. Size 8. Also try keeping a tighter line.

Also, in addition to size the style of hook makes a big difference. Use a #8 or #10 cricket hook or use a gold Aberdeen hook in the same sizes. Rig your line with the hook at the end, then place a #3 split shot about 6 inches above the hook. Keep the line as tight as you can without dragging the sinker.

You did not mention a bobber. If you use one then get a 7/8" oval balsa bobber. I rig mine as a slip bobber, but the clip-on type will work too.

Avoid the baitholder hooks, circle hooks, or any pre-snelled hook.

The fish in Bear Creek are a lot smaller than those our friends in San Antonio catch. So we have to use smaller hooks and bait.

Good luck!

Also make sure your hooks are needle sharp! Usually when I'm losing fish the hook has dulled. Replace or sharpen until they catch on your thumbnail.

+1. Baitholders and circles are good for larger fish but not littles sunnies. I have used them as small as size 12 or 14 and they work, but then you get a lot of swallowed hooks. A lot of good smaller hooks can be found with the flyfishing/trout supplies. And make sure the hook is sharp!!!