Blog

When you look a the amount of  Trout hook variations available, the most obvious characteristic is their size. A number determines the size, they start from a size 2 and go down in even numbers to a size 32. The higher the number, the smaller the hook, which makes a size 32 incredibly small. Commonly, most Trout and even Grayling flies are tied on a size 14.

Selecting the right hook size

When selecting hook sizes for different fly patterns used in trout fishing, there are several factors to consider:

1. Fly Patterns: Various patterns, whether it is a dry, a streamer or a nymph pattern may have a recommended size. Typically, dry flies are often smaller, ranging from size 14 to 20, and can even go as small as a 32 for the smallest of patterns. In contrast, streamers' patterns are generally larger, usually between size 2 to 10 and more representative of fry or small baitfish.
2. Water Conditions: If the water is running clear, a smaller and more natural pattern is usually more effective, while in dirty water, a larger hook (and even brighter colours) can help attract the attention of a Trout.
3. Time of Year: Seasonality plays a key role. Matching the hatch ultimately increases your chances of catching. So, the size of the hook along with the profile of the fly you are intimidating can increase your chances.
4. Personal Preference: Sometimes hard to accept but, experience, confidence and the presentation of your fly onto the water will play a definitive role.

The anatomy of a hook

1. Eye: The eye is where you connect the hook to your tippet. Depending on the pattern, eyes can face down, face up or be straight. Traditionally, an up-eye hook was used for dry flies whilst a down-eye was for wet and nymph patterns.
2. Point: The point of a fish hook is the sharp end that penetrates the mouth of a fish. There are numerous designs for points, from beaked to straight or waved. All of which, claim to have increased hooking power.
3. Barb: The barb is a small projection extending backwards from the point of the hook that keeps the fish from unhooking. Today, most anglers are beginning to favour barbless versions.
4. Shank: The shank runs from the eye of the hook through to the bend
5. Bend: The bend is the curve in the hook.
6. Gape or Gap: The gape or gap is the distance between the point of the hook and the shank.

Shank Lengths

A normal wet, nymph or dry fly hook is usually labelled, for example, 'wet fly hook'. You'll come across trout hooks with descriptions that state 1x long, 2x, 3x etc. The explanation is relatively simple to understand. The diameter of the hook-eye determines the sizes of the 1x, 2x, and3x long multiplier so, a 3x long hook would feature a shank that is 3 eye lengths longer than a standard hook of that size. The same sizing method is also used in reverse where you see trout hooks with a description of 2x short, meaning the shank length is 2 eye-lengths shorter than standard.

Barbed Vs. barbless hooks

There has been a notable shift in attitudes towards catch and release over the last 20 years, with more fly anglers making the shift to barbless hooks. Because of this, the majority of hook manufacturers now offer a barbless range.

There are several arguments 'for' barbless hooks, these generally are:

1. Safety: If you've ever been hooked by a barbed hook, you'll know the pain of removing it. Barbless hooks slide straight out.
2. The fish: reduced damage and fish mortality.
3. Fishing: Barbless hooks can make retrieving fish more challenging, which makes it more sporting in my eyes.

And, like any argument for Barbless, there is an argument for barbed.

1. Fishing: There is less chance of losing the fish in the height of a battle.
2. Availability: The range of barbded hooks is far greater and typically out-weigh its barbless counterpart.
3. The fish: They keep fish hooked in the same spot where barbless can slip. 

Hook manufacturers 

When it comes to fly fishing hooks, there are several recognised brands that offer quality, innovation and range. 

1. Partridge of Redditch: A renowned British manufacturer with a rich heritage of producing high-quality hooks. They have built a reputation for innovation, strength and craftsmanship over the years. Their extensive range covers traditional and modern patterns or fresh and saltwater patterns

2. Sprite: Again, another British manufacturer with a history of high-quality and innovation. They offer a range of fresh and saltwater hooks that cater to both experiences and novice anglers 

3. Ahrex: A Danish brand and a relatively new player in the market. They've quickly gained a following for their innovative designs and unique profiles. 

4. Hanak: An established and trusted Czech manufacturer. They produce a wide range of barbless hooks for both competition and normal fly fishing. 

5. Mustad: They are one of the leading hook manufacturers with over 140 years of experience. They offer a wide variety of patterns and have a reputation for strength and durability.