I've been fishing a few 1/2 oz. traps lately and I'm thinking about putting some larger/sharper hooks on. What size and brand do you guys like?

Funny I should visit this particular forum today. Recently watched a video where it was suggested you "one up" most lures with treble hooks. That is, go one size larger with the hooks. Hook-ups would improve, and lost fish would decrease. The hooks need to appear to be too big for the lure for best efficiency. Replacing hooks isn't something I had previously considered. Now I am, so I'm gong to be interested in the replies you get as well.

Funny I should visit this particular forum today. Recently watched a video where it was suggested you "one up" most lures with treble hooks. That is, go one size larger with the hooks. Hook-ups would improve, and lost fish would decrease. The hooks need to appear to be too big for the lure for best efficiency. Replacing hooks isn't something I had previously considered. Now I am, so I'm gong to be interested in the replies you get as well.

I only replace hooks on lures that come with junk hooks, the rattle trap and strike king lures are both noted for bad hooks. Certain lures you can go up a size but not all and you need to be careful which ones you do it too, as a rule of thumb, diving crankbaits are a bait type you could upsize with little effect. Baits I would not up size hooks are topwaters, and suspending jerkbaits, especially the higher priced baits that are made with precision.

Rattle trap changed the style of hooks a couple years ago and I absolutely hate them. I change the hooks on my traps.

I replace them with SureSet hooks that they use on the rapala DT's.

I think Ike upgrades his lipless crank hooks with one size larger.

I have done this and to be honest, I have not found any difference in hook ratios.

I do switch out some older hooks with Owner or Gammys.

Can't hurt to go one size larger with a quality brand so give it a shot and come to your own decision.

Very true! the hooks they come with are unbarable, i always put nice owners on mine, especially the 3/4 oz!