How to Bait a Circle Hook With a Plastic Worm

Circle hooks have been used by commercial fishing fleets for decades. A circle hook sets itself in the corner of the fish's jaw, due to the tension in the line. Anglers have found that these specialized hooks work with great success with live bait, as well as with soft plastics. Read on to learn how to properly rig the popular plastic worm with a circle hook.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Circle Hook
Plastic Worm

Step 1

With the circle hook tied on the line, thread the plastic worm on the hook. Once the hook is half-way through the worm, push the point of the hook through the worm. Straighten the worm on the hook, and it is ready to use for fishing.

Step 2

Another method of rigging a plastic worm on a circle hook is to simply push the nose of the worm through the hook point and slide the worm to the bend of the hook. This allows the worm to dangle enticingly off the end of the hook; it will sure trigger a strike.

Step 3

The final method of rigging is termed the "whacky" style, as this will allow for the most action. Push the hook point through the middle of the plastic worm, which will make the work dangle in an upside-down "U" configuration that wiggles seductively with the slightest of movements.

Tips & Warnings

When a fish strikes a plastic worm rigged with a circle hook, do not set the hook. Rather, reel down tight to the fish, which will pull the circle hook firmly into the corner of the fish's mouth.

Be careful with the hook point when rigging the worm, as it is sharp and can puncture your skin.

Resources

Bass Anglers Sportsman Society

Article Written By Brian M. Kelly

Brian M. Kelly has been freelance writing since 2003. His work has been published in respected outdoor magazines such as Outdoor Life, Great Lakes Angler and Salmon Trout Steelheader. He holds an associate's degree in automated machine design from Macomb College.

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