Hook size & sharpness

[wasssit]

Just wondering if there's different hook sizes to use when fishing for ski's and how to keep them sharp. Is there any easy way to keep them extra sharp? I much rather cut the hook then try pull it out and rip something.

[delmuts]

was. i'm no expert, but to sharpen my lures i still use a file.( i try to only sharpen the pt. on three sides, and get them needle sharp) the hook sizes kind of depend on what size will work on the lure.( to big of a hook will kill the action; to small could miss a fish ) you have to check you're lures from time to time for sharpness; since they will dull from being used. one note ! they will rust easier after being filed, so i keep a brass bristled brush around to clean them too.( i use different types of rust preventives, but still need to clean from time to time)i have read alot about the batt. opr. sharpeners, but have never tried one. del

[Long Gray Line]

Keep those hooks needle sharp, but, do it the right way. I've seen folks put too fine a point on the hook. This weakens it and it'll curl over if you hit something solid with the hook. Sharpen them at a steep angle, I go at about 45 degrees from the direction of the hook point, in the direction of the point. You'll still get a needle sharp hook that you can hang from a finger nail but one that's really strong and will hold up. There's a sharpener out there called a Suresharp. It's made from the same stuff used to sharpen saw blades, basically 2 small round files attached side by side. One stroke on the left side of the point, 1 on the right, and 1 finishing stroke on the outside of the point. It creates 3 sharp edges and 1 SHARP point. I've driven hooks THROUGH the roof of a northern's or muskie's mouth and jaw. They have them at Thorne Bros in both sizes. Gander has the large one in stock. The only problem is you'll need to carry a good wire cutter because you'll be cutting alot of hooks to remove them. Not a big issue if it means landing the big one!!
I use the small size sharpener on all of my baits. It'll touch up jigs, live bait hooks, cranks, etc. They make a large one for those 1lb baits too, haven't needed it, small one works great.

[RK]

Hiya,
I've always used a Luhr-Jensen flat file, and I can get hooks nasty sharp with it in a couple swipes. I CANNOT use the double round file sharpeners. Give me one of those things and 2 minutes, and you've never seen a hook so dull. As Gray Line said, you have to be careful not to make too much of a point. Can also file down big barbs a little while you're at it.

As far as sizes, really varies depending on the lures you're replacing them on. I carry a variety of styles from 2/0 to 6/0 in standard styles like Mustad 3551s and Eagle Claw 477s and some VMCs. They used to all be in a big box all mixed together, but now they're in a Plano stowaway that lives in my boat. It's labled, and organized - it's the definition of anal retentive. I was bored one winter...

RK