Why check hook sharpness

Why should I check Hook point sharpness? 

We all have experienced missed hook ups. The missed hook sets that I am mostly concerned with are when fishing streamers and nymphs.  Most anglers might think that their reaction time is off.  This is very possible and a concern. However, you may be missing the fish for the wrong reason.  Do not get me wrong, Hook set timing is essential when at the instant of the strike, but if your hook is dull, the hook set to catch ratio will drop anyway.  If your timing is not off and you are missing the strike then it is important to check the hook point.  It will mean a more fish hooked and retrieved to the hand.

To test the sharpness of your hook, gently place the point of the hook against your thumb’s fingernail.  Then, gently scrape it down the length of your fingernail.  Do not put additional pressure beyond what is required to keep the point in contact with your fingernail.  If the point sticks and does not slide, it is sharp.  If not you should re-sharpen the hook

When I tie a new fly on my leader, I always check the hook point.  In addition, when I am fishing and my fly becomes snagged on a rock above or below the waters surface, I always check the hook point again..

The tool that I use I have had for twenty years plus.  It is the best one I have ever seen.  The sharpener is compact.  The diamond surface has a groove along the entire length on the top edge.  The top edging is also rounded along the length and flat on the bottom.  This makes this tool really stands out to any others on the market today.  In addition, it will sharpen knives. I have the EZE-Lap sharpener in stock at the shop.  Call to get yours today 518-946-3474.  They sell for $7.64. EZE-LAP has been a pioneer and originator of diamond sharpeners since the early 1970′s. Light and compact. You can take it anywhere and store it anywhere. Features oval and flat surfaces with fish gut groove

To use it properly;

·        Use very light pressure to stroke the hook on the diamond surface.

·        I use the groove to sharpen the bottom side of the hook first.

·        Just a few strokes should be enough if the hook is not to dull, use a few more strokes if necessary.

·        I use the radius side to sharpen the inside of the gap.  It gives the best access since the hook bend is near by.

·        There are times when the hook point becomes bent upward into the gap. When this happens, use the flat or radius sides of the sharpener to back drag to bent point back out straight.

·        Then proceed to re-sharpen as above.