Hook size? I use #1 most of the time with bait, and when using corkies, generally move to a size 2/0. Like to have plenty of exposed hook to grab fishes mouth. I have never believed fish know what a hook is, and I feel I miss less fish with a slightly larger hook. I also strike rather quickly rather than let fish swallow bait, and feel like I am less likely to pull hook from fishes mouth if it is larger.