To all just getting started in bass fishing

[Rich]

There have been a lot of posts lately asking about rods, reels, baits, etc. which are great, but there has been one subject that hasn't come up probably because most people don't think about it.

That subject is hooks, or more specifically the sharpness of your hooks. Â*I think this is one of the most overlooked aspects of fishing, and is one of the most important. Â*

You often see posts asking why someone can't get a fish in on a worm or lose one on a topwater. Â*I'd be willing to bet they did everything right but were fishing with a dull hook.

Many years ago I tied on a Tiny Torpedo straight out of the box and threw it into an old gravel pit. Â*It looked like a toilet flushed under it when she hit, and she started pulling drag before the line went slack and the lure floated up to the surface. Â*It was then I checked the hooks only to find they were about as sharp as a ball peen hammer. Â*I learned that lesson the hard way.

Do yourself a favor: Â*Get a hook sharpener. Â*I use one made by EZ Lap (I think) that I got at WalMart for about $5. Â*It fits into a cap and will ride in your pocket like a pen. Â*Then check your hooks. Using just a small amount of pressure see if it digs into your fingernail. Â*If it digs in you are good to go. Â*If it just slides off your nail it needs to be sharpened.

I guarantee it can be the difference between catching that big 'ol good 'un and telling about the one that got away ;D