Circle Live Bait Fishing Hooks

Circle hooks are being used by more catch and release fishermen because they are safer for the fish. After a fish takes your bait, they usually turn away to kill their meal. The circle hook slides back through the fish's mouth to the jaw corner and then hooks the fish in the mouth. Circle hooks reduce the chance of a deeply hooked fish. Catching the fish by the jaw makes it easier to unhook and release. When selecting a circle hook, choose a size that will fit the "lip" while allowing room for the bait. The gap between the point and the shank is important. Make sure you have enough room for the bait and the fish lip to fit to prevent missing fish.

Circle hooks are typically used by live bait fishermen in saltwater fishing, both inshore and offshore and salmon fishing. They are becoming popular with freshwater fishermen pursuing large catfish.