Circle hooks are the only way to fly for the sox up here. Far, far fewer foul hooked fish. Much better hooked to landed ratio for those hooked in and/or very near the mouth. After three years of fairly heavy use with the circles I am sold entirely and won't look back. My main mission lately has been introducing the concept to as many people as possible. It doesn't take long to build believers at the local meat holes. I've given away literally dozens of "ultimate flossing rigs" and have even won over the local wildlife troopers in the process.

The few fish that I've seen foul hooked using circles usually have the hook in the dorsal fin as it tends to be a catch point for the hook and leader sliding over the back of the fish. The user plays a big part in helping prevent foul hooking as well. Wait until the fish pulls to pull back, and when you do, it only takes steady pressure. No need to grip and rip or set the hook. Just hold on and let the fish hook itself. Quite often I wind up gently lifting the front of the fish out of the water before it realizes it is hooked. Chaos usually unfolds shortly thereafter though.

Embrace the circles for sockeye.

Giving credit where credit is due, thanks Doc.