I used 3/0 octo's for the hootchies. 3/0 for coyotes, and 2/0 for coho killers. The siwash are very heavy gauge wire and while I would have preferred 3/0 on the killers, I was worried the heavy hooks might dampen the action. Like I said, I had no complaints on the hook up ratio, it was through the roof. As for the rusting, I dont know yet. Todd mentioned something about a coating that would help, but they are not stainless so they will rust. I was asked to test for holding ability, especially those moments right after release. They did that very well. A stainless hook would be the way to go down the road if they choose to make them for saltwater applications. I'll know and post more as the summer goes on and I can play around with them.