The use of circle hooks is also recommended by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. My FWC states that circle hooks are 90% more likely to hook fish in the mouth, reducing harm to the fish on a catch and release.
Circle hooks are easier to dislodge than J hooks. If a fish "swallows the hook" with a J, removing it can be seriously detrimental to a fishes release. Often, it is better to cut the line close and leave the hook to work out over time if damage to the fish on removal is severe or it takes too long and causes distress.
Circle and J hooks are for use with live and cut bait. The favorite thing I like about the circle hook is they set themselves. You never have to set the hook. It makes Florida East Coast Surf Fishing easier.
Circle hook sizes go from 1/0 on up, depending on what your fishing for. You even have a choice of colors like Chrome, Red, Black, or Gold. A plethora of sizes, colors, brands, styles, manufacturers for you to choose from. I normally use 1-2/0 for Whiting, Redfish, and Pompano but use 3-4/0 for larger species like shark.
Find out more at Fishing Tackle and Gear to Help Released Fish Survive MyFWC
Florida East Coast Surf Fishing
