We’re going to be talking about red fishing hooks. When should you use a red fishing hook? When do they work best? How do they attract fish compared to other hooks?
And it’s not just about using red fishing hooks, read my article Discover the 5 Best Fishing Hooks for Every Situation to learn which 5 hook types you need to carry in your tackle box at all times.
What Are Red Hooks?
Red hooks, particularly red treble hooks, have been around for many years. Several manufacturers produce them, but my go-to red treble hook for trout fishing is the Eagle Claw L934RDGH-10 Lazer Sharp Treble Hook (Red). These hooks are not just about the color; they offer a unique advantage in specific fishing situations.
I have this hook added to many of my trout lures and it works.
When to Use Red Hooks
Clear Water Situations
Red fishing hooks excel in clear water. If you’re fishing in lakes with clear water, especially those with spotted bass or smallmouth bass, red fishing hooks can make a significant difference. The bright red color seems to grab the attention of fish more effectively than regular hooks.
Dirty Water Situations
Red fishing hooks are also highly effective in dirty water. This technique was popularized by Takahiro Omori, who used red hooks to win the 2004 Bassmaster Classic. In dirty water, the red color helps fish locate the lure more easily.
Practical Tips
When fishing in dirty water or shallow cranking with lures like the Megabass S-Crank or Z2, consider switching to red fishing hooks. If water visibility is under two feet, red trebles can significantly improve your catch rate.
Why Red Fishing Hooks Work
Attracting Fish
The bright red color of these hooks is believed to mimic the appearance of blood or injured prey, triggering a predatory response in fish. In clear water, the red fishing hooks stand out, making them more noticeable to fish. In dirty water, the red color provides a clear target for fish to strike.
Using red fishing hooks can enhance the overall effectiveness of your lures. By drawing more attention to the lure, red fishing hooks can increase the chances of a fish striking and getting hooked securely. This can be especially important in competitive fishing scenarios where every catch counts.
The Science Behind Red Hooks; Visibility and Attraction
In water with normal stain (12-24 inches of visibility), red hooks are very visible from up to five feet away. This visibility can attract fish that might otherwise ignore a plain hook. However, in deeper water, red hooks become less visible, which is something to consider when choosing your tackle.
Clear water conditions with good visibility up to 5 feet or so, red hooks can do wonders. With dark water stains…., not so good visibility, red fishing hooks are less visible. Plan accordingly!
Psychological Triggers
The color red is associated with gill flash, a phenomenon where the gills of a feeding fish become engorged with blood, signaling other fish that feeding is occurring. This can attract more fish to your bait, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Techniques for Using Red Hooks
Flipping and Pitching
When flipping shallow water with normal color stain, using a red hook can be particularly effective. If you’re struggling during a tough day on the water, try tying on a red fishing hook. It might take some getting used to, but it can make a significant difference in your catch rate.
Shallow Cranking
For shallow cranking, replace the front hook with a red treble hook. This can make your lure more attractive to fish, increasing the likelihood of a strike. Avoid putting red fishing hooks on the back; this encourages fish to attack the middle of the bait, leading to a better hookup rate.
Bladed Baits
Adding a red trailer hook on bladed baits like spinnerbaits and buzzbaits can give fish an extra visual cue to hone in on. This is especially effective when targeting sluggish, shallow fish holding tight to cover.
Situational Use of Red Hooks
Bright, Sunny Days
Red hooks are most effective on bright, sunny days. The increased light penetration enhances the visibility and effectiveness of the red color. On cloudy days, the impact of red fishing hooks diminishes, so consider this when planning your fishing trips.
Tough Fishing Conditions
If you’re having a tough day on the water or getting a lot of short strikes on a crankbait, switch to a red fishing hook. It might take some time to gain confidence in this change, but you could crack the code and enjoy some excellent fishing.
Conclusion
Red hooks are a valuable tool in any angler’s arsenal. Whether you’re fishing in clear or dirty water, these hooks can make a significant difference in your success rate. By understanding when and why to use red fishing hooks, you can improve your fishing strategy and catch more fish.