To Snell or not to Snell
 

Looking for some opinions...
I like to use circle hooks when using 30-40 leader for tuna. Reason being, I've had tuna "chew thru" thinner leaders when hooked deeper than in the jaw. Here lately I've dropped some fish well into a fight with a pulled hook. I've been using 7/0-8/0 Owner SSW hooks. I SNELL the leader to the hook.
My question IS: Is the snell not allowing the hook to move properly? Would a palomar work better?

Re: To Snell or not to Snell
 

I prefer snelled hook however do use Palomar , uni & double nail on occasion
Maybe setting nook incorrectly , if you point rod
Lock up once spool is moving decent clip , slowly lift rod you should get corner mouth connections thus not having to worry about abrasion since hook will be in in corner or V of jaws .

Re: To Snell or not to Snell
 

Are you using a straight eye or up eye ? I always shell up or down eye hooks. On straight eyes I prefer Palomar most of the time. When I smell a straight eye I smell it on the top of the hook with the leader running down through the eye. This helps lever the hook into the jaw .

Re: To Snell or not to Snell
 

If it's an offset eye, a snell is required for direct pull. The hook won't work properly without a snell.

Now, the technique for setting the hook is one I'd like to hear input on.


Meat Hunter.......

Re: To Snell or not to Snell
 

Setting hook just simply point rod at fish on take , while spool is moving lock up reel to pre set drag with rod still pointing at fish , lift n reel u should be connected 99% of the time ! This technique allows the book to exit throat and as fish swims away catch in corner of mouth !
Use hooks that are commensurate with bait size so the point is exposed quickly and sinks easily as it passes thru mouth to connect in V of jaw.