Size does matter

You all seem to have some great advice. Be confident that I've used some of it this past season and had an outstanding winter pursuing and conquering the wiley steelhead.

A question for the masses...Hook size?

Growing up, everything seemed rather large, and in recent years I've downsized my gear. Realize here on the Klamath in California, our Steelhead run the 5-12 lb. range. I'll head to the Smith River, also in CA which produces considerably larger fish to 25+ lbs. Under most circumstances I have been greatly successful using #4 octopus; where ever I go. Even for the larger Coastal fish, the most successful professionals use the small hooks. (I've seen many 20+ steelhead landed on #4's)

I'll use 4's while drifting w/slinkies from the bank or drifting boat. Or, most recently, with your encouragment, drifting them under a slip bobber, also from the boat.

Most importantly I would like to know your opinions. And if I've missed a post concerning this topic, please direct me accordingly. Thank you for your insight.

Also: What's the word on the new Cotton Cordell Wiggle O?? I need a good lure to replace the OLD wee-wart. Thanks.

YoungManRiver
Klamath River,CA

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.

When fishing bait, I use double hook rig. #2 in front followed by a #4. I als place a small corkie / cheater between the two hooks.

SA