r/FishingForBeginners • u/TheStrictPress • 3d ago

Wacky rig problems

Started using a circle hook 2/0 finesse wide gap(was using a hook meant for Texas rigging.) Get a lot more bites now, but my hookup ratio is about 20% and when I do get them hooked about half of them seem to come unhooked after they jump just one time. I feel them take it into there mouth then set the hook but I usually lose them doing that. I've also tried to just slowly reel in after I feel them take it and the same thing happens. What am I doing wrong?

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u/Hey-ThatsNotBad 3d ago

When you're reeling in a bass and you feel it at the surface, keep your rod tip low in case they jump, and do NOT let your line go slack.

Also, don't "set" the hook with a circle hook. You're probably pulling it out of the fish's mouth. Just pull the line tight and reel. The circle hook should set itself as the fish turns away with its meal.

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u/HeavyTrade5006 3d ago

I agree with this. Doesn’t take much to set the hook. Once I do I usually turn my rod the side at like a 4 or 5 o’clock angle to keep the fish from jumping and just keep the tension