Hook sizes in the Weedless Casting Jig

[fsh4fun]

On the SMJ-3-MF,Can I use the 3/0 hook in all three cavities.It states 3/0-4/0 for the 5/16, 4/0-5/0 in the 3/8,and 4/0-5/0 in the 1/2.I`d like to put the 3/0 hook in all 3

[ctom]

The leg might be a hair short on the larger size heads, but I think it would work. Have Jerry try a 3/0 in the cavities before you order the mold.

[Jerry V]

The 3/0 hook fits and will work in all three cavities, but I did notice a tiny bit of flashing around the hook eye on the larger sizes. 

[fsh4fun]

Thanks,its ordered!!

[ctom]

See how easy that was? And Jerry needed something to do this morning anyway.

[sim]

Why do you only want to use a 3/0 hook? its fine, but I'm curious as to the logic behind it.

What I found was that by moving to a 4/0 hook where I used to exclusively use 3/0 (3/8 arky flat eye) - my hook up ratio went way up + as a rule, the hooks withstand a little more punishment.

[efishnc]

What I found was that by moving to a 4/0 hook where I used to exclusively use 3/0 (3/8 arky flat eye) - my hook up ratio went way up + as a rule, the hooks withstand a little more punishment.

I couldn't agree more... I usually upsize my hooks at least one, and sometimes two hook sizes on virtually every mold I cast for bass, walleye, and musky.

[t-billy]

 I haven't noticed a difference in hookup percentage with different hook sizes. I make Brush jigs up to 1/2 oz and the 1/8th & 1/4 oz weedless casting jigs using 3/0 and 4/0 hooks. I use the 3/0 when I want to give the smallmouth a more compact bait. With the 3/0, the hook point is closer to the weedguard requiring less flex before the hook starts to penetrate. Mustad makes rugged heavy wire hooks in both sizes and styles. Even high quality hooks are pretty cheap. Experiment and see what works for you. ------Tim.