For many carp anglers, choosing the right hook size is not that easy and always causes discussions. In addition to the optimal hook shape, the hook size is still a crucial point when it comes to landing a big fish safely and reliably.

Therefore, the hook size is often adjusted to the size of the bait used, which is justified and makes sense, but should NOT be the main reason!

In the following we will show you how to choose the right size of the hook...

1.Hook size - bait size.

As indicated above, the choice of hook size should NOT be based primarily on the bait size. Assuming you are fishing with a 15mm boilie and using a hook size between 6 and 8, in front of obstacles such as sunken trees or the like, the choice of such a hook for this situation is extremely bad, as in most cases it simply overloads the materials (primarily that of the hook).

In general, we recommend the so-called "hook & hold fishing" only for experienced anglers, as otherwise there will be unnecessary fish losses and the fish will only be harmed unnecessarily!

2.hook size - situation!

From our point of view, it is much more important to adapt the size of the hook primarily to the respective situation and, secondarily, to the size of the bait. When fishing in open water (no obstacles) you can use smaller hooks, but when fishing in front of obstacles or water lily fields you should use larger hooks (2 or 4).

In our experience, a size 4 hook has proven to be the optimal size in most cases. Almost all types of lures can be used in this size. In addition, we have already successfully used such a hook in connection with a single "fake corn kernel" and were not able to determine any negative catch results.

3rd addendum point 1!

Once you have chosen the optimal hook for your situation, you can now ask yourself the questions about the optimal bait size. As a small rule of thumb, we would now like to give you the following on the way to your success.

-Used baits that are larger than 20 mm, you should always use at least a size 4, better 2 hook.

-For lures between 15 - 20 mm, at least one size 6 hook, preferably 4.

-And for lures under 15 mm at least size 8, better 6.

We do NOT recommend using even smaller hooks, as these simply no longer guarantee a safe landing of big carp!

IMPORTANT!

As mentioned above, "hook & hold fishing" should really only be practiced in exceptional cases and only by absolutely experienced anglers!

Many inexperienced anglers therefore often lose fish here, which only causes unnecessary damage and suffering to the fish and this should be avoided at all costs as a (carp) angler!

In general, we recommend avoiding "hook & hold fishing" and only using it in exceptional cases!