As the close-up photo shows, little circle hooks jaw-hooked the small sunnies, making for an easy release. Specifically, I used size 12 Eagle Claw “Circle Bait” hooks, model L702G.

Learn how to unhook fish properly using pliers, barbless hooks, and other tips to reduce harm and help fish survive after release.

“The only time I don’t use them is in areas where we need more weight, and I’ll use a 1/0 Octopus or circle hook and about a 12 to 18-inch leader under whatever size weight you need to hold ...

Whenever using large live baits for pitching, be sure the bridle is long enough so that the ­circle hook has the flexibility to turn and lodge in the corner of the fish’s mouth. John Ashley Rig It ...

Using circle hooks and dongles for flatfish like plaice, dabs and flounders has been pure magic, with a higher percentage of hook-ups on slow days. A common rule is to scale hook size and bait up ...

Circle hooks save fish, right? That was the assumption when fishery managers created a rule in 2020 requiring anglers to use circle hooks when fishing with bait for striped bass.

Comments on the proposed circle hook regulation should be sent to [email protected] or by mail to: Division of Marine Resources, 205 N. Belle Mead Rd. Suite 1, East Setauket, NY 11733.

Non-offset, inline circle hooks will now be required when fishing for striped bass using natural baits. This new regulation takes effect Jan. 1 coastwide and there are no gear or ...

This year’s recreational striped bass fishing season on the Hudson River kicked off April 1, with a new mandatory “in-line” circle hook regulation for those anglers fishing with bait ...

Circle hooks will be required in all bait rigs in billfish tournaments, effective Jan. 1, according to new regulations from the National Marine Fisheries Service. The regulation has been expected ...