Size 1/0 (pronounced 1-aught) or Size 2/0 circle hooks are the optimum choice when targeting pompano. Size 1/0 and Size 2/0 are appropriately sized for the small mouths of pompano as they are both thin hooks with smaller shafts and gaps. Keep in mind Florida Rule Rule 68B-35.004, F.A.C. which states that fishing for pompano with multiple hooks, i.e. treble hooks, is prohibited.
When to Use Size 1/0 versus Size 2/0 Hooks
A size 2/0 circle hook has a longer shank (distance between the bend and the eye of the hook) and wider gap (distance between the tip and the shank) when compared to a 1/0 hook. You may find that using a 1/0 hook works well when using fish bites as bait, and a 2/0 is preferable when using live sand fleas (larger than fish bites) to maintain a sufficient amount of spacing from the tip to hook a fish.
Hooks on Pre-Made Pompano Rigs
You may want to purchase pre-made pompano rigs for added convenience. Be sure to check the type and size of hook used as often times you'll see pre-made pompano rigs with kahle hooks. Circle hooks are actually preferable because of the ease of getting the hook set and its quite a bit easier to maintain the fish on the hook. With circle hooks, there's no need to “set the hook” like other hooks because they're designed to twist in the fish's mouth and hook on the corner of the mouth when the line is tight. The circle design helps prevent a “gut hook” when live bait is swallowed by the fish. Once the pompano is hooked with a circle hook, the hook is strong enough to withstand the rigorous surf it'll be pulled through.
Using a Circle Hook to Target Pompano
First, you'll need to set up your rig with your size 1/0 or 2/0 circle hook. When building your rig, you may decide to do a double hook rig, i.e. double hook bottom rig, and use one of each size. That way you have a rig that will support whichever bait is working for you. You could even try one hook with fish bites and one hook with a sand flea! Using a rig which contains two hooks will help maximize your chances of catching a pompano.
When hooking the sand flea onto the hook, be sure to push the sand flea past the bend in order to leave the space between the tip and bend exposed. That will leave enough space for the hook properly set on the mouth of the pompano. Some fishermen make the process of putting the sand flea on the hook easier by first removing the sand flea hard shell. Some fisherman also recommend pinching the head of the sand flea to eliminate the possibility of the sand flea burrowing into the sand once casted.
Using sand fleas as bait can also turn out to be a great way to entertain the kids while surf fishing. Our youngest daughter loves holding the sand fleas, so its fun to dig them up and show her!
Specific Hook Recommendations for Pompano
We are of the mindset that we should support businesses in our own country first, whenever possible. Eagle Claw is the only American Made fishing hook on the market. They own Eagle Claw, Lazer Sharp, and TroKar brands. Eagle Claw is a cheaper hook, while the quality increases substantially with Lazer Sharp and TroKar. Take your pick based on your budget, but stick with USA made!
Be sure to read through our Best Setup to Target Pompano article while you're here. Tight lines and high tides y'all!
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