Posted By: spazm09
Help preventing hook swallows - 05/07/21 01:14 AM
The title says it all. I don't normally fish for bluegill but I do a few times a year. Would love to reduce how many swallow the hook when using worms or other non lure baits. Any advice? Would larger hooks help? I could see how they would but i would think that would also reduce my successful hook sets.
Try setting the hook a little more faster. You might also try a Cricket hook which has a longer shank. I love the Eagle Claw size eight Cricket hooks.
Posted By: doctorxring
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/07/21 01:54 AM
One tip I’ve used and it does work. Use a 1/32 or 1/64 oz jig head in the hook size you prefer. This bit of extra weight slows down the bait a bit when they inhale it and it’s doesn’t go as deep.
Posted By: Flags
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/07/21 02:04 AM
I like using a jig hook. Because of the way it hangs when tied most of my hook sets go into the top of the mouth
Posted By: David Newton
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/07/21 02:27 AM
I can second the previous 2 posts. I have never had them swallow a jig head but I have seen them swallow small aberdeen, octopus, and bait hooks.
And I usually wait quite a while after my bobber goes down to set the hook. Still no issue with jigs.
Posted By: spazm09
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/07/21 01:12 PM
Thanks for the tips!!! I will definitely give them a try
Posted By: steveiam
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/07/21 05:21 PM
Good info here.
Never thought about that-
Posted By: Techno2000
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/07/21 08:55 PM
Yep, I use a 1/64 oz. jig with #8 hook.
Posted By: larryvt
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/09/21 05:35 AM
Use a 7/0 circle hook. I have never had a Bluegill swaller one.
Posted By: Laker One
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/09/21 03:06 PM
Awesome thread and everything that has been said will work to improve your hook set.
Posted By: BigJoeTx1212
Re: Help preventing hook swallows - 05/11/21 09:20 PM
Agree! Fun read and great ideas.