Hello experts: I've been using 2/0 size hooks for steelhead and they look a little large compared to what others use. What's the best size for winter steelhead when the rivers come up to normal level and it warms up enough to get to fishing?

Thanks

I almost always use 2/0 and sometimes use 1/0. Seems like fish stay hooked better on the bigger hooks and you get less smolt. Only use smaller hooks when using really small drift bobbers or bait. But I think the 2/0 is the best all arround size.

Just my opinion.

i have been using a size sixe waleye hook. it has a wide gap small wire and a special bend. but today i bought size 12 and two pound test. i am just about as oposite of western tech as you get. most guys use size 1 for steelies. good luck

I like size 1 and 1/0 for winter fish and size 2 and 4 for summer, my .02 worth.

If you've got a little extra money around, give the 0wner cutting points in the 2/0 a try they are my favorite for drift fishing. If I'm freedrifting from the sled then I go to a size #2. If the water gets really low then I will go to a 1/0 or a #1 for driftfishing. 2/0 for 10# test and #1 and #2's for 8# test and #2's and #4's for 6 lb test. Your hook size should more relate to line diameter than anything. Good luck and good fishing.

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I look at hook size being dependant upon driftbobber size and technique.
- with straight bait #4 or #2&#4, usually in tandem either way.
- raggs, 1/0 or 2/0 depending upon size.
- worms, usually 2/0 (4" and larger).
- corkys, size approx. 1/8" gap larger than the drift bobber.
- plugs, as big as I can get away with, as long as it doesn't effect the action.

That is my "system", it may not be the best, but it works for me.

Note: My experience has been larger hooks driftfishing usually equates to more LOST fish.

I always use a 1/0 when I am fishing bait/Rags except on the Pen. Rivers then I use a 2/0. I use a #1 on most of my yarn rigs though-down here in Oregon we dont get many biggies like you guys and I usually use the 2 smallest size corkies. My .02

Crayfin

Depending on water conditions, I use 1/0 for drift fishing bait rigs, and 2/0 to 3/0 on my bait and diver rigs. If the water is up I'll switch to 2/0 on my drift fishing gear.

Lots of guys make the mistake of not using a large enough hook when fishing gooies and bigger corkies. I always use a 2/0 when the water has less than 4 feet vis., and a #2 in clearer water..the smallest winter steelie hook I use is a 1. To each his own.

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Long Live O. Kisutch

Like what everybody else said it depends on the situation but I always use size 2 to 1/0 no bigger. good luck


[This message has been edited by Aerofly (edited 12-11-2000).]

I use any where from size #4 to #1/0 for steelhead.Good luck,
STRIKE ZONE

I agree with Huntar on this one.The bait(corky,whatever) must be able to fit within the gap of the hook.If the hook point is not exposed your in trouble.

I also feel that no matter what size hook you are running,the rod must have enough backbone to bury that hook.Unless you have a rod snappin hookset it does you no good to be fishing 2/0s with a light action rod or even in some cases a medium action.

Hooks sizes should be in proportion to the bait you are using.If you are running single corkies,size 6 to 1/0 is usually good.If you are running shrimp tails I wouldn't go any smaller than a 1/0.

Hope this helps.ReiterRat