An Introduction to Pike Fishing With Circle Hooks. Part 2: Hair rigs and baiting them

In this second episode of the series I demonstrate how to assemble hair rigs for use with circle hooks both popped up and for bottom fishing. The benefits of using hair rigs are that the bait is held very securely which allows a strong cast without the bait coming off. It also presents a clear hook for the best hooking potential. Thanks for watching. Please 'like' and subscribe if you wish. quaysports.com

[@aydencaldwell2472]

Do the fish not get put off with the big red ball but considering a lot of them take the bait head first?

[@quaysportsfishing4190]

Hi, Pop ups (red balls) have been used extensively by pike anglers for many years with no noticeable difference in takes. In some instances it may even help as a visual trigger. If you have the option of a bait buried deep in the weed where it will never get spotted or the use of a pop up which will bring the bait into a visual plane above the weed then a pop is definitely preferable. After watching a considerable amount of underwater footage of pike taking baits they seem to take it in whatever angle is easiest. Lots will grab it side on then swim away, stop and turn the fish. Some will take it whole in the first strike. The beauty of circle hooks is that you can leave the run and 'feel' the line. So if it runs, then stops, wait until it runs again then wind down. I very rarely miss any fish and it is even rarer to loose one once hooked.

[@aydencaldwell2472]

@@quaysportsfishing4190 yeah I’ve heard of pop up baits etc of course but I’ve seen folk filling baits with air etc to let it float a bit but I thought if it had a big red foam ball at the mouth of the bait it would maybe spook the fish , might need to give this a try