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The Ultimate Guide to Treble Hooks

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Treble Hooks

When it comes to fishing gear, having the right fishing hooks can make the difference between a fish landed and a fish lost.

Far too many anglers do not know the importance of having quality fishing hooks tied to the end of a line or attached to a lure, and far too many anglers pay the price.

Not only using the Best Treble Hooks can help you catch more fish, but they also prove to cause less harm to the fish when hooking up.

Low-quality fishing hooks pose the risk of snapping or breaking off in the mouth of the fish which is proven to affect their eating and spawning habits.

Now, once you have chosen a quality product you must next consider the size. Trebles come in a wide range of sizes and styles making it a bit overwhelming at times, especially for those that previously did not pay too much attention to hook size.

Choosing the right size treble is imperative in having successful hookups.

Having a treble that is too small could fall out of the fish’s mouth while having a treble that is too large could prevent the hook from embedding itself in the fish’s mouth entirely, especially if the fish is smaller than you were “planning” on.

In the Anglers Gear treble hook size chart guide, we are going to break down the sizing of them and their best practices.

Treble Hook Terminology

Shank: The ‘shank’ of the hook is the relatively straight piece of metal above where the fishing hooks start to bend outwards. The shank will change in size in relation to the size of the hook but will always be the same shape.

For trebles, the shank splits into three separate sections below the eye.

Eye: The ‘eye’ of the hook is the closed-off hole section at the top of the treble where it is attached to a fishing line or lure aided by a split ring.

While trebles have three of almost everything, they still only have a single eye. As the size of the hook increases, the eye will become thicker and may require a larger size split ring to secure it to the lure.

Bend: The ‘bend’ of the hook is the physical curved section of the hook.

Treble will have three separate bends, typically all of the same size and shape although there are a few styles of trebles that have different sized bends and gaps.

Gap: The space between the hook point and the shank is known as the ‘gap’. The gap of a hook differs greatly between various styles of trebles.

The gap is responsible for holding the fish in place once the point has found the sweet spot.

Barb: While some baitholder fishing hooks do not feature a ‘barb’, most trebles do. The barb of a hook is a small sharp-angled piece of metal right below the hook point facing the opposite direction of the point.

Barbs are used on fishing hooks to prevent the hook from sliding out of the fish’s mouth, although many anglers pinch down their barbs in hopes to cause less damage to fish during the fight. Barbed trebles will feature a single barb on each shank with a total of three barbs.

Point: The ‘point’ of the hook is the finely sharpened end section of the hook. This is the part that actually penetrates the fish’s mouth once it bites on it.

All trebles feature three separate points, giving the angler a better chance of hooking up after a strike. Fishing hooks points can become dull over time due to extended use so be sure to keep up with regular sharpening maintenance.

A dull hook will have a much harder time penetrating a fish’s mouth, especially when fishing for bony-mouthed fish such as gar, pike, and pickerel.

Styles of Treble Hooks

Now that we have talked about the components of a treble and the different sizes of trebles, let’s talk about the various styles! With all the new innovations in fishing gear popping up each year, it’s no surprise that trebles have undergone many changes since their introduction to angling during World War II. 

Unlike human beings, not all trebles are built equally.

Each bend, gap, and point shape are specially designed to serve a purpose based on the conditional needs of an angler. Experimenting with different style trebles can result in more fish in the net, especially when swapping out those generic trebles on your favorite lure with something a bit more advanced and made for the situation.

It is important to note, however, that adding a larger-sized or alternate treble to your lure may affect its intended action, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse.

Smaller trebles may cause your swimbait or topwater bait to flow side to side easier while a larger hook could slow down the action or cause the lure to sink lower into the water column.

These could be seen as negative or positive attributes depending on the time of year and the type of bait that fish are targeting. Many treble manufacturers combine styles to offer the perfect combination of attributes.

For example, you could have a short shank extra-wide gap treble or a short shank round bends the treble and so on. The best way to know what works and what doesn’t work is to get out on the water and see for yourself.

Standard Shank treble fishing hook

 

Standard Shank Treble Fishing hook

Trebles with a standard shank have a proportionately sized shank to the bend and gap of the hook.

Standard shank trebles are perfect for larger-sized lures as the fishing hooks will have a harder time becoming entangled. The standard size shank puts the hook lower into the water resulting in more efficient hookups

Short Shank treble fishing hook

Short Shank Treble Fishing Hook

Trebles with a short shank have the same size gap and bend like a “normal” treble, just with a shorter shank.

The shorter shank allows the treble, or hooks, to sit snug against the lure during a retrieve while retaining a low-profile design. This is exceptionally useful when fishing in weedy or overgrown areas that pose a potential snagging risk.

Not only will it reduce the risk of snagging an unwanted branch or other debris, but short shank trebles are also less likely to become intertwined when used on a small crankbait or micro lure after a curious fish comes in for a snack.

Round Bend Treble Fishing Hook

Round bend style trebles have a uniformly round bend as opposed to standard trebles that are slightly oval. The round bend allows the hook point to stick straight up towards the eye instead of slightly angled outwards.

This is a great option to use when the fish are not committing fully to the strike as the straightened out hook points are more effective at snagging curious fish dwelling in the depths of your local river or lake.

Mustad UltraPoint KVD Extra Wide Gap Treble Hook

Extra-Wide Gap Treble Hook

Treble with an extra-wide gap has added space between the hook points and the shank.

Extra-wide gap trebles protrude further away from the lure, perfect for faster hooksets while keeping an angry fish securely in place. Because of the wider gap, the hook points are angled back towards the eye of the hook.

This angle helps prevent the fish from spitting the hook by “locking” them in place. Since the extra-wide gap trebles stick out further away from the lure, they do pose the risk of becoming snagged a bit easier.

Standard wire treble fishing hook

Standard Wire Treble

Using a standard size wire is able to do so because of the natural design of trebles. Unlike a singular fishing hook that relies on the strength of a single wire, trebles disperse the force and weight of a fish over each of the points that are embedded in the fish.

This allows trebles to use standard-sized wire to remain lightweight while maintaining the natural action of the lure in use.

Standard size wire can also penetrate the fish’s mouth much easier than larger wire, think of it as a thin sewing needle compared to a large sewing needle.

 

2X wire treble fishing hook

2X / Heavy Wire Treble Fishing Hook

Treble hooks that utilize heavy gauge wire for construction have their pros and cons, just like all other styles of trebles.

Anglers typically tie on heavy wire trebles when they are fishing with large lures or swimbaits that will not be affected by the additional weight.

Heavy wire trebles are at least twice as strong as standard wire treble fishing hooks making them the preferred choice when targeting large species of fish or species that are known for putting up a solid fight.

The downside to using heavy wire trebles is simply the added weight. Using heavy wire trebles on a lure that was designed to house standard wire trebles may affect the lure’s action and could cause it to sink lower into the water column where it could have an easier time becoming caught on the underwater structure.

One thing to keep in mind if you choose to use heavy wire trebles is that you may have to subsequently upgrade the split rings as well. Smaller-sized split rings could pose a problem when trying to fit them over the eye of a heavy wire treble.

 

Feathered Bladed Treble Hooks

 Feathered / Bladed Treble Fishing Hooks

when you need to add more action or stealth to your lure, using a single feathered or bladed treble is the easiest way to do so.

Feathered trebles are just that, trebles with feathers tied around the shank. This not only hides the treble from the fish’s view but also adds to the presentation and can draw more strikes.

Topwater poppers, for example, typically have a feathered treble situated on the back of the lure to imitate features of critters that float along the top of the water’s surface such as frogs.

Bladed trebles have a single reflective blade fixed in place directly in the middle of the hook in line with the shank.

Anglers will attach a bladed treble to the back of their favorite lure to further entice a hungry fish to come for a snack.

As the lure is retrieved, the blade at the back of the lure will flap forward and back, shimmering in the natural light. This is a great technique when fishing dark water as a fish can easily see the shiny blade from across a river.

And, as we know, fish love shiny objects. Adding a feathered or bladed treble can completely revamp a lure or artificial bait that previously seemed ineffective.

Choosing the Right Fishing Hooks Size

All the different sizes, shapes, and styles of trebles, may have you thinking “How do I choose the right treble hook?”.

Well, to answer that we would need to know which species of fish you are targeting, the fishing conditions, and the type of bait you are using whether that be a hard-bodied lure, saltwater jig heads, or other styles of artificial bait.

In terms of choosing the right size, you must first test your bait with the original trebles it came with.

If you are in love with the action and do not wish for it to change, you could keep the same size hook and just go for a different style.

If you are open to changing the action of the lure in hopes of becoming hooked up easier, trying trebles that are slightly bigger, or smaller, than the original fishing hooks is a great place to start.

Drastically changing the size of a treble may prove disappointing so start small and water test each of your upgraded baits before hitting the water for a day of fishing.

Replacing two smaller trebles with a singular larger treble could keep the weight and action of the lure relatively similar with a better chance of keeping the fish pinned in place.

If you choose to go this route, putting the single large treble at the back of the lure is recommended as fish typically ambush prey from behind.

Another thing to keep in mind when deciding on the size of treble to use would be the size of fish you are targeting. For example, small panfish will have a harder time biting onto a 1/0 treble while a massive pike will have no problem.

If you are getting bit on a regular basis but are failing to actually land a fish, try downsizing the hook size. If that still doesn’t work, try upsizing the hook size and get back out there

How to measure treble hook size?

Hook sizes are measured by the length of wire in millimeters. The higher the treble size, the smaller the hook will be.

For example, a #12 treble is much smaller than a #2 treble. Many people ask what size trebles are best for fishing. When it comes to Fishing Hook Sizes, there are a lot of different hook sizes out there, but the most common range from #6 to #10.

A good rule of thumb is to match your hook size with the fish you’re trying to catch. For example, if you’re trying to catch largemouth bass, then an #1 to 2/0 treble would be appropriate when going for trout, a size #12 would be perfect.

Round band treble fishing hook

Treble Hook Size Chart Guide

The first thing to keep in mind when deciphering hook size for treble hooks is that each company will have its own sizing guide based on the style and shape of its treble hooks. However, there are basic standards and guidelines to follow based on their size number.

 

Treble Hook Size Chart Aught System

All fishing hooks are given a number based on their size. For “smaller” treble hooks, this range will be from 20 to 1, with the size 20 hook being the smallest and the size 1 hook being the largest. 

Once the hook size has reached 1, fishing companies start to add an “aught” at the end to clearly show how large these hooks are. If you are looking for a treble hook larger than a size 1, your next larger option would be a 1/0 (pronounced one-aught).

The “aught system” of measuring hook size starts at 1/0 being the “smallest” and 20/0 being the largest hook available. Keep in mind, anything over 1/0 will be a very large size hook and should only be used in circumstances where the angler is targeting very large fish such as catfish, carp, paddlefish, or seafaring species of big game fish.

To recap, the smallest hooks available are size 20, and the largest size available is 20/0. While either end of the spectrum will have its very specific uses, many anglers choose a size somewhere in the middle. 

Reference the chart below to get an accurate understanding of treble hook sizes while keeping in mind gap size, bend shape, and point shape will differ based on the style and brand of hook you choose.

Treble Hook Size

(Small >> Large)

Length

Width

20

7.35mm

4.53mm

18

9.25mm

6.35mm

16

10.16mm

7.62mm

14

13.20mm

9.14mm

12

13.20mm

10.16mm

10

13.97mm

12.19mm

8

16.20mm

13.46mm

6

19.55mm

16.51mm

4

22.60mm

19.05mm

2

26.16mm

20.82mm

1

28.70mm

23.36mm

1/0

31.24mm

25.90mm

2/0

35.13mm

28.25mm

Treble Hook Size Chart

The size of the treble hook will be determined by what you are fishing for. Naturally, the larger hooks will be better for larger fish while smaller hooks are better for small fish.

Here is a quick review of treble hook size defined by common species:

Fish species

Treble Hook Size

Buy it

MuskyFrom: #8To: #2
Largemouth bassFrom: #1TO: 2/0
Smallmouth bassFrom: #8TO: #2
Trout – spinning#12 
Trout – power baitFrom: #16To: #12
Yellow perchFrom: #6To: #2
CatfishFrom: #8To: #1
PikeFrom: #8To: #2
WalleyeFrom: #10TO: #6
PerchFrom: #12TO: #8
CrappieFrom: #14To: #12
SaugerFrom: #12TO: #8

Click here if you’re looking for a fishing hook size chart actual size pdf 

Laxygo 2pcs snagging treble fishing hooks

Choosing the Right Treble Hook Size

Between all the different sizes, shapes, and styles of treble hooks, it may have you thinking “How do I choose the right treble hook?”. Well, to answer that we would need to know which species of fish you are targeting, the fishing conditions, and the type of bait you are using whether that be a hard-bodied lure, jig, or other styles of artificial bait. In terms of choosing the right size, you must first test your bait with the original treble hooks it came with.

If you are in love with the action and do not wish for it to change, you could keep the same size hook and just go for a different style. If you are open to changing the action of the lure in hopes of becoming hooked up easier, trying treble hooks that are slightly bigger, or smaller, than the original hooks is a great place to start. Drastically changing the size of a treble hook may prove disappointing so start small and water test each of your upgraded baits before hitting the water for a day of fishing.

Replacing two smaller treble hooks with a singular larger treble hook could keep the weight and action of the lure relatively similar with a better chance of keeping the fish pinned in place. If you choose to go this route, putting the single large treble hook at the back of the lure is recommended as fish typically ambush prey from behind.

Another thing to keep in mind when deciding on the size of treble hook to use would be the size of fish you are targeting. For example, small panfish will have a harder time biting onto a 1/0 treble hook while a massive pike will have no problem. If you are getting bit on a regular basis but are failing to actually land a fish, try downsizing the hook size. If that still doesn’t work, try upsizing the hook size and get back out there.

 

Shape & Style

When it comes to treble hook shape and style, choosing the “right” one is very subjective to the angler themselves. Although, there are a few basic tips from world-renowned anglers that struggle with this very same issue. 

Anglers have reported that round bend treble hooks work exceptionally when the water is colder or fish are less active. The extra space provided in the hook’s bend quickly snags fish when they take a curious nibble without fully committing.

When water temperatures are high and fish become more active, extra-wide gap treble hooks are a phenomenal option for fishy conditions. As water temperature increases, fish tend to become more aggressive and feed more often. 

Having the extra-wide gap with the hook points naturally angled back towards the eye of the hook will hold even the most aggressive of game fish. Extra-wide gap treble hooks are also less likely to be torn free from the fish’s mouth in heavy cover such as weeds or water lilies, another sign of warmer water conditions.

As we have mentioned before, many treble hook manufacturers combine characteristics known as a “hybrid” design. Hybrid treble hooks can effectively handle many different fishing situations while allowing the angler to purchase a single set of hooks as opposed to sets of multiple different types of treble hooks. 

If you find yourself consistently losing fish or becoming snagged, pop on a different style of treble hook and go from there. As they say, practice makes perfect.

Best Treble Hooks [Amazon Buyers Guide]

With all of the various fishing gear manufacturers based all over the world, it can be a bit difficult to identify which brands are worth investing your hard-earned money into. When it comes to fishing hooks and especially treble hooks, it is imperative to use high-quality products as they are one of the most important parts of a successful fishing trip. Using poorly made fishing hooks can result in a few different ways with each way negatively affecting not only your experience but the fish’s health as well.

Low-quality treble hooks oftentimes become dull quicker than well-made hooks and also have a tendency to straighten out over time due to extended uses. A high-quality treble hook will maintain its original shape despite hooking up into a large fish or becoming snagged on debris. Nothing is worse than setting the hook into a new personal best fish just to have the hooks bend out of the fish’s mouth or completely snap off at the shank, trust us.

Here at Angler’s Gear, we appreciate well-made fishing gear and truly believe it makes the difference between getting skunked and catching a daily limit. We have compiled a list of our recommended brands and models of treble hooks based on their influence on the angling community.

By the way, if you already decided to buy a treble hook, you might want to check our Treble Hook Size Chart comprehensive guide to choosing the one that fit your needs

Mustad Classic 4 Extra Strong Kingfish Treble Hook

Known for affordability and durability, Mustad is a very respected name in the fishing industry when it comes to quality fishing hooks. These wide gap treble hooks are crafted fully from Nor-Tempered high carbon steel to provide maximum strength in all fishy situations. Not only does the Nor-Tempering significantly increase overall durability by up to 20% when compared with generic treble hooks, but it also allows the hooks to be considerably lighter in weight.

 

With the hook points straight in line with the eye of the hook, the natural design of these hooks causes the fish to be tugged into the elbow making it even harder for the fish to spit it out after a hookset. Mustad offers these hooks in two different finishes, black Nickel and bronze. Anglers recommend using the black nickel finish treble hooks for saltwater as they will not rust as easily as the bronze finished treble hooks.

 

  • Quantity: 25 hooks
  • Multiple sizes available
  • Nor-Tempered for increased strength and reduced weight
  • High carbon steel construction
  • Inline hook point & eye
  • Black nickel & bronze finish options

 

Gamakatsu Round Bend Treble Hook

If you are looking for a set of treble hooks you can count on without all the added bells and whistles, Gamakatsu has got you covered. Round bend treble hooks have their points perfectly lined up with the eye, making for easier hooksets when the fish are not fully committing to the strike. Gamakatsu treble hooks come razor sharp right out of the package so you don’t need to worry about sharpening them before you hit the water. If you hit a rock or hard surface, these treble hooks can easily be resharpened back to like-new condition.

 

The bronze color looks more natural in the water as opposed to red, black, or silver hooks adding to the presentation of your lure. If you are a live bait or cut bait user, these hooks make a great addition to any tackle box. Available in a wide range of sizes, Gamakatsu is sure to have the perfect fit for all types of gamefish from bluegill and bass to large species of saltwater fish.

 

  • Quantity: 25 hooks per package
  • Various sizes available
  • Bronze finish
  • Super sharp right out of the package
  • Easily resharpened
  • Round bend style treble hooks perfect for any occasion
  • High carbon steel craftsmanship

 

Mustad UltraPoint KVD Extra Wide Gap Treble Hook

When it comes to extra wide gap treble hooks, Mustad may just be the best company out there. Extra wide gap treble hooks have added space between each of the hook points and the shank in order to stick out further away from the bait. This adjustment allows for even the lightest of hits to become a full-on fight while locking the fish securely in place throughout the entire experience. Much like other treble hooks offered by Mustad, KVD hooks feature their Nor-Tempering technology and upgraded wire for unmatched strength.

 

UltraPoint technology ensures these hooks are as sharp as possible with reduced risk of rolling or becoming dull over time. A single set of UltraPoint KVD treble hooks can, if not snagged or lost in underwater debris or trees, last a lifetime. Depending on the size you choose to purchase, these hooks either come in a pack of 6 or a pack of 11. Anglers can choose from a black nickel finish, silver finish, or eye-caching red finish.

 

  • Quantity: 6/11 hooks per package
  • Red, silver, or black nickel finish
  • UltraPoint Technology ensures these hooks are ready to fish with
  • Nor-Tempering provides exceptional strength
  • Upgraded wire
  • Extra wide gap style treble hooks
  • Great bang for your buck

 

VMC X-Point Round Bend Treble Hook

If you are familiar with the world-renowned artificial bait company Rapala, then VMC is most likely on your radar as well. Rapala bought out VMC in the early 2000s with one goal in mind, outfitting all of their lures with the cutting-edge technology VMC had to offer. This partnership paved the way for many innovative bait designs while ensuring every component down to the hooks is the best available for production. Rapala was on to something, VMC uses anti-corrosion materials allowing the angler to toss their lures outfitted with a VMC treble hook into both saltwater and freshwater without slowly deteriorating.

 

The X-Strong hook points stay sharper longer with less chance of breaking off or becoming dull from extended uses and are chemically sharpened to provide uniformity across all hooks. Alloy steel helps to keep the shape of the hooks while greatly reducing the chance of having them bend out due to snags or large fish. Although the wire used is thin, anglers can sleep easy at night knowing these hooks are some of the strongest 1 treble hooks available at a price point that won’t break the bank.

 

  • Quantity: 25 hooks per package
  • Many sizes available
  • Alloy steel construction
  • Highly corrosion-resistant material
  • 1x wire strength
  • Chemically sharpened X-Strong cut hook points

 

Shaddock Fishing Carbon Steel Treble Hook Kit

When you just can’t decide on the right sized hook or are going to be using multiple different artificial baits, purchasing a treble hook kit is a great compromise. This kit includes 110 treble hooks ranging from a size 4 down to a size 14 treble hook. Carbon steel retains the shape of these hooks after many uses and can easily withstand heavy use. A convenient plastic carrying case keeps all your hooks organized and easily accessible.

 

Buying the wrong size treble hooks can be quite frustrating at times. Eliminate that risk altogether with this treble hook kit from Shaddock Fishing!

 

  • Quantity: 110 hooks per package
  • Size: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14
  • Crafted from high carbon steel
  • Corrosion-resistant
  • Be ready for any fishing situation
  • Subtle black finish

 

VMC Bladed Hybrid Treble Hook

If your classic setup on your favorite lure just isn’t cutting it anymore, using a Bladed Hybrid Treble Hook from VMC may be the answer! A “hybrid” treble hook combines two or more characteristics from classic treble hooks. This hybrid treble hook design combines a short shank with an extra wide gap with an added free-moving blade. Short shank hooks allow the treble hook to fit snug against the lure or bait in use to reduce the risk of getting caught on debris during the retrieve.

 

To counteract the short shank, this hook has an extra wide gap to firmly lock fish in place. The combination of a short shank with extra wide gap combines the best attributes of each while opening up a wider range of “hook up” possibilities. A bright silver blade trails behind the hook to catch even the least curious fish’s attention and bring them over to investigate the commotion. Anglers typically use a bladed treble hook on the back of the lure and a non-bladed treble hook towards the front of the lure. Using a bladed hook at the front of lure may cause the blade to hit the lure or back treble hook and disrupt the action.

 

  • Quantity: 2 hooks per package
  • Size: 6 & 8
  • Short shank
  • Extra wide gap
  • Free-moving silver blade
  • 1x wire strength
  • Forged hook for extra strength

 

Frequently asked questions

How are hook sizes measured?

Hook sizes are measured by the length of wire in millimeters. The higher the treble fishing hook size, the smaller the fishing hook will be. For example, a #12 treble is much smaller than a #2 treble.

How big is a size 18 treble hook?

A treble fishing hook with a size of 18 (#18) would be around 9.25mm long, and 6.35mm in width (gap). It’s very small in comparison to other treble sizes.

What size treble hooks are on a Rapala?

Rapala’s most common treble fishing hook is the size of #8, which is around 16.20mm long, and 13.46mm in width (gap). This would be perfect for bass fishing or pan fishing.

What are treble hook sizes?

Treble sizes are the length and width of trebles. They range in size from #20 to 2/0, with most trebles being anywhere between a #6- #10 treble.

Are treble hooks bad for bass?

Trebles are popular with bass anglers fishing for bass since they catch much more fish. However, trebles can damage the mouth and lip of a fish if not handled properly.

Are treble hooks better than single?

Trebles can be quite dangerous because trebles are more likely to snag on anything. This is the main reason why most anglers prefer single-hook lures.

However, trebles have their place in fishing as well for different reasons such as being able to afford bigger fish that will weigh more or produce higher action with trebles.

Do treble hooks hurt fish?

If you are asking this question, I can assume that you intend to practice Catch And Release Fishing, and if so, trebles are not recommended…

What size treble hook should I use for trout?

First of all, if you are planning to use trebles when fishing for trout it is a good idea to first pinch down the barbs on all of your fishing hooks with a pair of pliers.

Trebles rarely come barbless so it is up to the angler to make the proper adjustments to ensure the safety of the fish. In some areas, barbed fishing hooks are illegal and can result in hefty fines.

Trout are very susceptible to human damage, so using a smaller sized treble will not only cause less harm to the fish but will also draw more strikes.

Anglers typically use trebles ranging from size 8 to 14, with size 12 trebles as the fan favorite. Small trout can be abundant which is why going for a smaller-sized treble is always a good call.

While some may think a 10-pound trout requires an equally sized treble, that is a common misconception.

Large fish will stay hooked up on small hooks just as consistently as large fishing hooks. Small trebles, such as the size 12, will also be harder for the trout to spot in the water resulting in a naturally aggressive bite as opposed to the curious bite of a fish who spots the treble but is still thinking about risking it all for a tasty treat.

What size treble hook should I use for bass?

Because bass has a much larger mouth than trout or panfish, anglers usually opt for a larger-sized treble.

Bass like to engulf their prey in one fell swoop which gives anglers little time to set the hook before the bass spits it back out. Smaller trebles will have an arguably easier time being spit when dealing with bass. Anglers typically use anywhere from a size 4 treble hooks down to a size 8 treble depending on the bait in question and the size of fish being targeted.

Size 4-8 trebles will be engulfed by bass just as easily as smaller treble hooks but with the added advantage that once the bass tries to throw the hook, the treble will easily find the fleshy part of the fish’s mouth and embed itself there until the angler removes it.

Bass can also grow to a fairly large size and put up a very aggressive fight if the conditions are suitable. Larger-sized treble hooks will withstand the pulling and battering of the fish trying to escape without bending out or completely snapping.

If you are targeting trophy size freshwater bass or typical-sized saltwater bass, using a larger size treble (2, 1, 1/0, or 2/0) may prove more successful.

What size treble hook should I use for catfish?

When it comes to freshwater game fish, catfish are some of the largest species of fish attainable. Catfishing has a huge cult-like following all over the world, and for good reason.

Catfish are heavy, fight like a truck, and require specific techniques to not only find one but land it on hook and line. There are many different species of catfish so choosing a single treble size to effectively catch them all is nearly impossible.

However, many catfish species can easily be caught on a size 4-6 treble. For larger species of catfish, anglers will use up to a size 2 or size 1 treble.

Anything larger than a size 2-1 treble will most likely not be as effective and will require the mouth of an absolutely monster-sized catfish to engulf it. Catfish are drawn to scented baits resting on the bottom of a deep river or pond and most people choose to use chunks of cut baitfish or live bait such as shiners, leeches, or nightcrawlers to draw them in.

All of these baits can be easily and firmly attached to a treble while giving you more than one opportunity to get caught up in the catfish’s mouth.

Find out more in best hooks for catfish review

What size treble hook should I use on a crankbait?

The best way to determine which size treble you should use on a crankbait is by first inspecting the size of the crankbait itself.

Unless you are using a micro crankbait or crankbait that is smaller than average, a size 4 treble should work great on most crankbaits. Crankbaits come in a vast array of sizes so determining a single-sized treble you should stick to is just not feasible.

Crankbaits are commonly used for fish such as bass, perch, walleye, pike, panfish, and even trout. Adjust your treble size based on the fish you are targeting with your favorite crankbait.

You always want to make sure you test the action of your crankbait with the chosen treble before relying on it to catch fish. As mentioned before, using a treble that is too big could cause your crankbait to function differently than intended and the same goes for using a treble that is too small.

If you are deadset on using a crankbait in a shallow body of water with an abundance of underwater structure, using smaller treble hooks will allow the crankbait to float higher in the water column to avoid snags.

If you want your crankbait to dive deeper than it normally does, using larger-sized treble hooks can achieve this result due to the added weight. If the size 4 treble fishing hook is failing to land fish, try moving a size up or down and cast back out there.

When do I use large treble hooks?

The term “large treble hook” changes the meaning for each and every angler. What may be considered a large treble for trout fishermen could be seen as a small treble for bass fishermen.

For the sake of this article, we are considering anything over a size 1, and remember a size 1 is much larger than a size 20 but smaller than a size 1/0, as a large treble. Large treble hooks really become imperative when fishing for large game fish in both saltwater and freshwater.

For saltwater fishermen and a few freshwater fishermen, large treble hooks are used without bait in order to “snag” small baitfish to use at a later date.

This is done by tossing out a large weighted treble and slowly reeling in until the angler hits a school of baitfish. The large treble snags the baitfish which can then be reeled in.

Anglers who are looking to catch a paddlefish will use this same method, dragging a large weighted treble along the riverbed to snag an unsuspecting prehistoric fish.

Outside of these two scenarios, large treble hooks are reserved for big fish whether that be pike, salmon, shark, or other seafaring species.

At the end of the day, it’s up to the angler to experiment with different sized treble hooks to get an accurate understanding of which size works and which size does not base on their environment.

Be sure to check your local rules and regulations regarding barbed trebles before hitting the water as many bodies of water forbid them.

Circle hook vs treble

There are many different types of fishing hooks on the market, each designed for a specific purpose. For example, treble hooks are often used when fishing with bait, as they help to keep the bait on the hook. Circle hooks, on the other hand, are designed to hook the fish in the corner of the mouth, making them ideal for catch-and-release fishing. When choosing between a circle hook and a treble, it is important to consider the type of fish you are targeting and the fishing technique you will be using. In general, circle hooks are more likely to result in a successful catch, but treble hooks may be more effective when fishing for certain types of fish.

Circle hook or treble hook for catfish?

When it comes to fishing for catfish, there are two main types of hooks that are commonly used: the circle hook and the treble. Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right one for the situation.

Circle hooks are often considered the better option because Circle hooks are less likely to hurt the fish when they’re being reeled in. Circle hooks are also less likely to snag on objects, which can be a problem when fishing in murky water.

However, trebles can be a good choice when bait needs to be anchored in place, such as when using dead or live bait. Ultimately, it’s up to the fisherman to decide which type of hook is best for the situation.

Treble vs single hook

When it comes to fishing, there are a variety of hooks that can be used. Depending on the type of fish you’re trying to catch, as well as the bait you’re using, the type of hook can make a big difference. Trebles are often used for larger fish, as they provide more surface area for the bait. They’re also less likely to come loose, which is important when trying to reel in a big fish. However, trebles can be more difficult to remove from the fish’s mouth, and they’re also more likely to snag on other objects. Single hooks are often used for smaller fish, as they’re easier to remove and less likely to snag. However, they don’t provide as much surface area for the bait, making them less effective for larger fish. Ultimately, the type of hook you use depends on the situation and the type of fish you’re targeting.

 

What hooks to use to replace trebles?

If you’re replacing the trebles on your hard lures, such as crankbaits, spoons, and so on, you’ll need an inline single hook. Inline single hooks are made to be used with lures that already have trebles.

Best trebles for saltwater lures

The short answer is of course Mustad!

When fishing in saltwater, it’s important to use the right type of hook. Trebles are a popular choice for saltwater lures, as they provide a good balance of strength and durability.

However, not all trebles are created equal. For the best results, look for trebles that are made from high-quality stainless steel.

These hooks will resist corrosion from the saltwater and will provide a sharp point that can penetrate the tough skin of fish. In addition, be sure to choose trebles that are the right size for your lure. If the hook is too small, it may not be able to hold onto a fish. If it’s too large, it may make it difficult to reel in your catch.

The Wrap Up

So there you have it – the ultimate guide to trebles!

We hope this article has helped clear up any questions you may have had about these little fishhooks and that you are now ready to go out and start catching some bass (or whatever other fish you’re targeting) with them. What type of treble do you prefer using? Let us know in the comments below!

For more fish types visit our full Hook size chart page

Some useful links and articles you might want to read: