Been having issues with the cheap stock hooks on my RES’s straightening out, especially after I’ve caught a few fish. Pretty sure the 1/2oz comes with size 4 hooks, and I’ve read that KVD will go up to a 2 when he swaps them out. I usually throw the 1/4oz model. Not sure if they’re size 4 or 6. What size would you guys recommend on 1/4oz RES’s? I was planning on using the Mustad KVD triple grips, but if anyone has any other suggestions I’m open to trying a few brands out. Thanks in advance for any help!

If you plan on going with mustad KVD triple grips... specifically the 1x strong, 2x short TG76 hooks, then upsizing one size from stock is perfectly fine.

 

1/4 oz comes stock with #6, 1/2 comes stock with #4, and 3/4 comes with #2. I generally don't upsize them, but have in the past and there's been no ill effect. Just changing the stock hooks to the better hooks will be a dramatic improvement, even if you don't upsize.

 

I have also played around with Owner ST-35's and ST-36's on these baits, and they work well too. The ST-35's are shorter shank hooks so you might be able to get away with upsizing. The ST-36 are normal shank length, so I'm not sure about upsizing with those (I haven't done that with either of those).

I use the Mustad triple grips in size 6 for the 1/4oz RES.