Why BIG Hooks Are Killing Your Chances 💣 ?

🔥 Watch next: Hook Myths Busted 👉 • 5 Carp Hook MYTHS Debu...
I’ve found myself moving away from some of the modern carping trends and going back to my roots. I spent 10 years fishing size 4’s, but recently, I’m back using 6’s and even 8’s and it’s been a bit of a revelation!
⏰ In this video:
00:00 How I went from small hooks to big hooks
01:18 Testing size 6 hooks
02:12 What’s the difference between a size 4 wide gape and a size 8 pinpoint?
02:49 Why is a thinner hook better?
04:52 Testing size 8 hooks for big carp
05:39 Why I’ve changed my mind on long shank hooks
🐟 In my tackle box:
Chod twisters: amzn.to/3e6V38t
Nash pinpoint LED eye glass: amzn.to/3ASNMlv
Tungsten anti tangle sleeve: amzn.to/3e1fe7L
Tungsten sinkers: amzn.to/3Tj1NjC
Hook eye threader: amzn.to/3CydpJz
Tungsten helicopter sleeve: amzn.to/3KvikNj
Cling-on tungsten putty: amzn.to/3ApI0Xb
Tungsten inline lead insert: amzn.to/3PYatcb
Inline lead 2.5oz: amzn.to/3QZz5CQ
Medium shrink tube: amzn.to/3e42Y6v
Size 8 ring swivel: amzn.to/3ctVskM
Boilie needle: amzn.to/3PZMysZ
Scissors: amzn.to/3QZsVmc
Boilie stop: amzn.to/3CEoZCU
☎️ Connect with me:
Filmed at my lake, Beausoleil Carp and Cats: www.frenchcarpandcats.com/
Facebook: / matt.collins.148116
Twitter: / beausoleilcarp
IG: / matt_collins_carper
Tiktok: / matt_collins_carper
🙌 Support the channel:
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This channel is supported by Nash but I am totally in charge of the content and focus of each video which is all about helping anglers. I only use and recommend
products that I personally use in my fishing and that I am completely confident in.
#matthewcollins #carphooks #carpfishingexplained

[@matthewcollinsangler]

In this video, I go through the reasons why I made a radical change of hooks over the last few years and stopped using size 4s altogether. It’s not a review of one hook vs another, instead I wanted to show why I think some differences in point geometry made an impact on my catch rate. This might not apply to all waters but maybe this will inspire you to try a smaller hook size even if you’re targeting carp of 30lbs and well beyond! 🔥 Watch next: Carp Hooks Demystified 👉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKmqnZ-MZ7-Wa9E

[@Chunter83]

Great video mate , the Gardner mugga Jason Hayward hooks are very good , an the esp claw hammers in 4 are a mega hook

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Not keen on the curved shanks but the trig hammers are close to the pinpoints 👍

[@Chunter83]

@@matthewcollinsangler nash chod claws sharpen the best for sure 👌

[@tphvictims5101]

Fish specific. When you start looking at big game there’s no way around it. I also believe you are on the money. I ALSO believe that European Anglers are better versed in building “RIGS” traces whatever you call them. Carp are beautiful fish and powerful fighters. Personally the fish I fish for need hooks 3/0 and up. Tight lines 😉👍🏻

[@tphvictims5101]

OWNER MOSQUITO HOOKS.

[@Familyman0838]

You're my go-to channel for quality advice I have found this myself and have being using the same for some time great advice 👍

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thank you very much 😊

[@markrobbins7043]

Matt, excellent advice and I too with a few of the comments posted went for size 4 because of my target fish. I now have dropped to a size 6 and with your video a size 8 beckons . As always, many thanks for sharing.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great to hear mate, hope it goes well for you 👍

[@Uk_carp_diaries]

Completely agree been using fang twisters for over 10 years in a 7 or 8 in the winter

[@shaunmcloughlin8451]

Great content Matt. I really like your no nonsense style which makes your content easily understood. There’s way too much complication in todays carp world and your simple but effective approach is where it’s at for me. I’m now using your running rig set up and going to try smaller barbless hooks. Many thanks

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Fantastic to hear that feedback, thank you. I've heard back from plenty of anglers who have made the switch and getting on great with running rigs, so all the best with it, I'm sure you'll be successful.

[@Tommy-jj1kj]

Trying the new Fox Armapoint Super Wide Gape hooks with the 20° out turned eye at the moment ,as I see they’re a similar design to the Nash cod twisters.

[@bitetime4266]

Thank you Matt for great content! I always found smaller hooks holding better and doing less damage,now i have confidence to go for a big carp with size 8.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great to hear, all the best with it 😊

[@BogdanOlteanu-profile]

I have a lake where a fish couple of times per year and so far it seems that it works well with size 8 wide gape short hair ( 2 - 3 mm from the bent of the hook ) with a 15 mm hard boilie. 8 - 9 wraps or close to the barb. I've tried different rigs and lengths but size 8 works like a charm. On another lake I used 2 - 4 size hook with 2 20mm soft boilie and works like a charm. :D

[@ing_6762]

Matthew, always good to see you. You have a lot of interesting things to say. Sincerely. Good luck in everything!!

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thank you very much 👍

[@stokie.carper7604]

This is the most informative carp channel on KZbin, always learn something from your videos 👍

[@matthewcollinsangler]

That's fantastic to hear mate, thanks very much 👍

[@paulwalker4966]

Used the old fangs almost exclusively,for a period of time...bit gutted when they changed them to the pinpoints. Went onto fox curves for a while,but my favourites are now the ridgemonkey range. Never bother sharpening them...and the point is the strongest I've encountered.

[@thomasburras]

Great video. My faveroute hook is a size 8 korda kamakura. Verry sharp and strong but the point does bend over easily.

[@simonmoorcroft1417]

Your point about smaller and sharper hooks is well made, Danish pike expert Jens Bursell has made similar arguments for using smaller trebles with his "release rig" articles, because it is easier to drive the hook home in the bony mouth of Pike. However as others have said it is the weight of the lead and/or tension of the line that 'strikes' the hook home. if the small hook goes no where near the lip its sharpness is irrelevant. I would say a big sharp hook improves your chances more. You said that smaller hooks have better "anti-ejection" properties. I would argue that they have better hooking or pricking properties, but are actually easier to eject. A big hook has a wider gape and is harder to eject, but your right. It does need to be sharp. As anglers we all have idea's about what's going on underwater. If we are very successful we tend to get "bias confirmation". I am pretty sure you are good at catching fish no matter what hook you use because of your knowledge and watercraft. To avoid bias we need to see the truth. The only way we can know what goes is by seeing it directly. The only real answer is underwater filming. I have watched a lot of underwater filming, both on Carp and match style style venues. The anglers on these videos are top notch professionals, so its hard to question their skill and knowledge. My conclusions: Most Carp anglers like to think they are 'snipers' when really we are 'machine-gunners', even the best ones. The video evidence indicates its about the numbers. Carp, even small ones, have big mouths, Carp are really, really good at ejecting rigs, many times without even a single indication on our alarms. They can also be fussy and its not just about seeing a big hook. It can be a certain boilie or topper colour or boilies in general, or even a certain pattern of baiting. 1) Create competition. Make the Carp 'sloppy'. Like a wedding party when only the 1st one hundred drinks are free! 2) Make your rig really, really hard to eject, because your only chance of a hook hold in the first place is keeping it in its mouth and falling toward the lower lip. 3) Make sure your rig will reset, again and again and again, because your rig will get picked up by Bream, Tench and Carp without you getting a single blip on your alarms. The Carp always have the advantage, but we can change the 'odds'. Accept the fact that we are machine-gunners. Play the numbers game. Accept that your rig will get picked up and dropped numerous times, but make it as hard as possible to spit out each time it happens. So to me that means stiff or semi-stiff rigs, a big sharp hook and a decent sized lead. Because the VAR does not lie.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi Simon, Firstly, thank you for your considered and in depth comment. One of the reasons why I love this sport so much is that we each experience it differently and it is up to us to interpret these experiences and make adjustments accordingly. On most things, we’re on the same page, on others, not so much and that’s OK. The fun is in the journey! I hope others read your comment and take inspiration from it. Cheers, Matt

[@simonmoorcroft1417]

@@matthewcollinsangler Thanks for the reply Matthew :) Take care...tight lines!

[@jaymarsh2186]

Deception angling hooks are my go to. Hand sharpened in the U.K and extremely sharp/strong.

[@peterp4223]

I used to use Nash hooks my self but switched to ESP hooks 3 years ago and find them a lot better as far as opening up I use size 8 I find triggar hammer's the strongest and sticky sharp

[@Chris-on3el]

Matthew you are without doubt a thinking angler, always outside the box thinking it's refreshing to listen to your thoughts with all things to do with carp fishing. Keep your content coming many thanks for sharing your wisdom. 👍

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thank you very much Chris, that's really great to hear 😊

[@Trailtraveller]

Use a combo of Korda, Gamakatsu and Drennan size 4 (sometimes) and 6 (more and more) at the moment. Will give Nash a try next time.

[@stevemccrory9130]

I'm drawing on various fishing disciplines here with my comment. Balance is the key word......a balance between wire guage, shank length and curvature, bend, offset, and the point "style" (straight, beaked, circle). Size is the final part of the puzzle - one brand's size 6 could be the same as an 8 (or 10) in another brands catalogue, and this MUST be taken into account too.

[@hojo9879]

Good video which makes some very good points. My go to hook for the last few seasons has been the size 8 ESP Gripper and I've had no problems, the only time I move up to the 6 is when using larger baits such as a double 16mm boilies. Also gapes on hook have got wider size for size so my size 8 Gripper has the sames gape as ESP T6 size 6 which was my hook of choice for the majority of my carping until they were discontinued, and I still have a few un-opened packets along with some of the original Stiff Rigger hooks.When you compare older hook size to newer ones they do seem to be a size or more wider and that can vary even more from brand to brand I have a box of Drennan Continental Boilie Hooks in a size 8 and they look tiny to a modern hook. What ever happerned to standards, a size 8 hook from one brand should have the same gap as one from another brand.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

I agree, hooks have gotten thicker and heavier over the years, which is not necessary most of the time. Cheers, Matt

[@aarondavies8486]

Thanks mat you confirmed what I have been saying for years smaller hooks do go in easier but harder to get out a brilliant video mate ots all about concealment for me that's why I like a smaller hook I just wish nash did the nxt defusion camo mainline still it was amazing stuff and making rigs from it they would disappear like the defusion camo leaders they used to sell

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thanks for the feedback mate 👍

[@tonysmall3863]

Makes sense. The amount of times I’ve seen pole men hook into a carp and more often than not they land them or they snap. Never the hook failing. And they’re using hooks that are miniature in size to a standard carp hook.

[@valentinserbanescu5064]

Matthew, thank you for all the useful information you provide. As for sharp hooks, Korda Kamakura range has some very very sharp ones.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thank you 👍

[@grahamturner5570]

Great video, learning so much from you Mat thanks 👍

[@matthewcollinsangler]

That's wonderful to hear Graham, thank you 😊

[@fcgash]

Cheers Matt, this video might even explain the disparity in the catch rate between me and my mate that i fish with, he uses korda wide gape, i use pinpoint longshank. I tend to catch more than he does. Without your demonstration i would never have guessed the difference in guage between the two patterns was so substantial.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

You're absolutely spot on mate, really interesting to hear your observations and I'm not surprised you're outfishing your mate!

[@fcgash]

@@matthewcollinsangler I mentioned before that i like the size 5 and 6, i actually have some size 7 which i rarely use, i'll try them out a bit more this year and let you know how i get on with them.

[@twincamspit]

We use the Nash Pinpoint due to your advice! But recently tried some chod hooks from Bank Tackle and they were impressively sharp out of the packet (and less expensive than the pinpoints). Very strong they feel too, although we've not done the same level of accurate gauge testing / springback after opening tests as you, but as you asked I thought I'd give my penny's worth :)

[@twincamspit]

Ha ha, just noticed the review from a 'Matthew Jason Collins Location: France' on their page, I guess you have tried them then :)

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Yes mate, I used them for a few months, they're certainly strong enough and on some waters, I'm sure you can use them straight out the packet no problem. What I realised was that in order to get the same fineness of point as the pinpoints, I'd have to spend 3 to 5 mins on hook sharpening. It's a choice and it depends on the water 😊

[@reesdavies7902]

Love the vids and tutorials but been using Korda ready mades for fish up to mid 20’s size 8 Dark Matter in barbless with 1.5 leads for the last year and zero pick up issues. Not an expert but I have 100% confidence in these rigs and get multiple catches in the 10lb range. Hooks are razor sharp imho.

[@chrisjpainter]

Great video, as ever. A quick question regarding popups and counterweight options if I may? Dropping a hook size has meant less weight to act against the popup, which has meant that some of mine are now floating even with a 0.8g AAA to balance it. Going up to a 1.6 SSG seems like a pretty bulky rig option, but is that something to be concerned with? If so, which would be the better option: A larger hook and AAA shot or a smaller hook and SSG shot?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi Chris, here’s what I’d do: you need to compare what the 2 different hook sizes look like under an eye glass. If you can’t tell much difference between the points, and the wire gauge is very similar, then it’s probably simpler and neater to stick to the large hook with an AAA shot. Having said that, going up in shot size is not going to harm your chances, so if you want to use a smaller hook because it’s sharper then go for it. If I was casting a long way, I’d use the smallest shot possible. So it’s a balance… and depends where you’re fishing 😊

[@chrisjpainter]

@@matthewcollinsangler That's really useful; thanks. Where I fish there's no need to be casting into the horizon - you'd end up in a tree on the far bank on a lot of my venues! Thanks again.

[@mattiparker14]

Excellent observations as always, my thoughts are similar till I came across the Graviers tic hook which throws a massive spanner in the works! When how far you are fishing an how big the carp are, top vid as usual Matthew 👍 🎣

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Cheers mate 😊 I've seen those hooks but I moved over to barbless 3 years ago.

[@mickcheshire3393]

Have you tried the ESP Trigghammers barbless, amazing hook never had a hook pull and super sharp out of the packet. Excellent strength 💪.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Yes Mick, not tried them yet but they look good.

[@YakShoreOutdoors]

I definitely agree with the idea of smaller hooks. I am fairly new to carp fishing and I live in the USA. I would love to hear your opinion on braid vs mono for mainline. Would you mind sharing your thoughts?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

I've experimented with carp fishing with braid a few times and unless the conditions are really extreme, I just stick to mono. It's cheaper, kinder to the carp's mouth and easier to fish with. I've used loads of Berkley Big Game for hooklink and mainline over the years. Cheers, Matt

[@lukebradford195]

I used to not ever drift away from size 8s for years but i fished quite a busy water and alot of the fish had damaged mouths and it bothered me. I thought to myself i bet thats caused from smaller hooks ripping through the mouth. Since then i now fish size 6, and ive had great success catching just as many. And unless fishing zigs most of the carp i catch are nailed with no tearing or bleeding which is all i care about.

[@haba_15]

Interesting and thoughtful content especially the bit about force to penetrate the lip wrt hook diameter. I've been using fox size 8's for years on one of my go to rigs, it nails large and small carp. Just one point Matt, you've made a strong case for the Nash hooks here, for full disclosure it would help to say if they sponsor you or not

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi mate, that’s a good point, thanks. Yes, Nash supports the channel for its educational content, and I’ve updated the video settings. I was already a fan of the pinpoints before though.

[@Accyboom]

I think it's fair to say if the nash hooks weren't any good then sponsored or not Matt wouldn't endorse them.

[@andym5900]

Morning Matthew now I’m back into fishing again I use size 12’ hooks as these are the max size allowed where I fish. Hooking is absolutely not a problem for both carp & myself when rig tying !

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great to hear 👍

[@timotejm]

Great video! Caught my river pb of around 25lb on a size 10 claw. Now days i almost never fish with larger hook than size 8.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Nice!

[@steventhompson3486]

Hi Matthew - I would highly recommend the GripZ hooks from Pallatrax, they are unique and the best I have ever used

[@daddylister]

Depends on the size of the fish your going for, fish are ALOT bigger than 20 years ago. It also depends on the rig your using. TBH i think your overthinking it. Last year me and a friend caught 42 carp we had 0 hook pulls. All on size 4/5. The year before on size 8 and 6 i had 3 hook pulls and 1 straighten on size 6. Sorry your logic is flawed a bit like danny fairbass last video.

[@inzenitynl6349]

Thanks for confirming the reality of hooks opening up under relatively low pressure, maybe the keyboard danglers on a certain forum will listen to you:XD Nash hooks are indeed very strong and very sharp, but the ones i currently have from pole position are ridiculously sharp and almost as strong. Might be of interest. On a sidenote, always enjoying your video's, living the dream my man!

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thanks very much for the comment 😊 and for the recommendation, you're the second one to mention pole position.

[@sergiochant3707]

Great info thank you..always used size eight

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great 😊

[@pauledmonds3249]

Brilliantly observed and reasoned as usual Matt, I agree with everything you say here and wish more people fishing on the continent would adopt your thinking. Just to add my experiences for what they're worth, i've found the Owner C-2BL Carp Flyliner hook absolutely brilliant in smaller sizes. It has a long straight sharp point and a finer wire gauge than most of the UK brand hooks. I fish for a Czech Royal strain of Carp in my lake, they have huge soft mouths due to the silty nature of the lake bottom. I found wide gape UK hooks in sizes up to 4 pulling out and causing mouth damage. Swapping to the Owners, especially in barbless has virtually eliminated hook pulls and minimises mouth damage. Keep sending out the great videos.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thanks very much for the comment Paul, very interesting to hear, I'm not familiar with that pattern. We also have Czech Royals but our fish have very hard mouths due to the nature of the lakebed. Cheers, Matt

[@Andy-nl3zw]

The new esp hooks chod hammer and claw hammers are very sharp also they don't need hand sharpening as the water I fish corrodes sharpened hooks very impressed with them.

[@martinlawrence8427]

Interesting video…liked the reference to research on needle penetration! 🙌

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thanks mate, glad you enjoyed it.

[@philgale1752]

Hi Matthew , have a look at this video .. Carp rigs-the ultimate barbless hook rig using smart point sp315 hooks . The size 4's are hard to locate now like so much stuff is . The size 4 are probably like a size 6 from other manufactures , they do a size 6 and 8 . Have not done strength test but had 20's on them . You probably have come across them in you're earlier days . Have tried the rig and have nailed every fish . Also scaled it down using a size 8 with cockles for tench and it worked , also used Drennan barbel hooks in 12 and 14 too using the curved heatshrink . Looks very similar or a replica of the Withy pool rig . Used you're hair stop bead to hold knotless knot in place and that worked too using 20lb Maxima , great tip . Steaming mono would probably damage it and the natural curl in such mono or fluro could maybe work in a similar fashion as well . Tight lines .

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thanks for sharing. Don't know these sp315 hooks, I used a lot of Drennans back in the day.

[@tomgarrett7567]

The new generation of esp hook claw hammer chod hammer and the trigs are sharp and have a nice needle point

[@youknowthis69]

Thanks for the analytical in-slight as ever Matt. Have you come across the Palatrix Gripz hooks? Barbless but with an indented pattern on the inside of the hook point. Seem a half way between barbed and barbless but I’d never heard of them.

[@twincamspit]

If you mean pallatrax gripz, I've tried them - main problem is finding fisheries that allow them! The ones that insist on barbed/microbarbed say they count as barbless but some barbless venues don't allow them either. Bit frustrating as they seem a good idea. Pallatrax make excellent stone weights too.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

I have heard of them mate but not tried them. A guest that's coming this year is going to try them here so it'll be interesting to see how it goes.

[@nenadsamardzija7501]

Hi Matthew, I live in Germany and most of my fishing is in natural lakes. I totally agree what you sad about smaller hooks. As you I have been using Nash hooks for a very very long time but few years ago I had a issue with them. They start to rust pretty quickly and other issue was the price. As alternative I started using Gamakatsu Snagger and Gamakatsu Hump Back as curve shank. I really would appreciate your opinion on those hooks. Keep up a great work!!! Best from Germany

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi Nenad, all waters vary in acidity, so it’s possible that the water you’re fishing is particularly aggressive. I’ve been using the pinpoint range for 3 years on different waters and I’ve never had that problem. It hasn’t happened at my lake either and it contains a lot of iron oxide which rusts things very quickly so I’m surprised by your experience. I only re-use a hook 2 or 3 times max with re-sharpening in between. I always use hook grease on the point. I tested some Gamakatsu hooks but I find the point too short and stubby for my liking - I’m not saying it’s not going to work for you but they’re not for me. Thanks for the feedback! Cheers, Matt

[@Matrixnet77]

I m not using Nash Pinpoint anymore. Tipp is too soft ! Had some probs with them. I ve switched back to Gamakatsu range of hooks. G Carp A1 specialist l, Hump Back and RX models (no. 4 and 6)

[@mogadog9184]

what size hook baits would you recomend with siz 8 hooks matt? and also would/can you use size 8 for spinner/ronnie rigs?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

For a size 8 hook I’d probably stick with a 15mm bait. I don’t use Ronnie or spinner rigs for reasons of carp safety. I mostly use mono rigs or multi rigs. You don’t need complicated rigs to catch carp. Have a watch of this video to see what I mean: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqupmqGXbpeVqK8si=krz8vd4c-onuGNP8

[@TheBrand83]

Great content. I accidentally tied a rig last year with a size 8. Thought I grabbed a 6. The result was great. Haven’t even considered a 4 since. I still lean towards the 6. But have no concern using 8’s and find myself reaching for the often. Haven’t tried any long shank though.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great to hear, thanks for the comment.

[@peterfitzpatrick7032]

The "gape " has a huge (lever) effect on "hookability" & a wider gape neccessitates thicker wire... a longer taper in the point will make for easier penetration, even on a thicker wire hook.

[@speakupreality633]

Alright I take it back, I tried the chod claw, it nailed the fish in the bottom lip. Excellent hook from Nash, it was nailed just picking up the rod. Wasn't going to shake it out

[@lukeframpton3671]

I've always uses a 6 always will curved shank and long shank I do occasionally use ridgmonkey size 8

[@dragomirmarian1360]

I was used to hate all the Nash tackle items only because they were not fitting with east-central European carp fishing. After time I realised they are the best, especially pinpoint twister hooks. I was using also VMC carp fishing range hooks, also amazing quality .

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great to hear the pinpoints are working for you 😊

[@Onpointcarp]

Honestly I've done exactly the same as you. Started with korda wide gape x. Now I won't use anything other than Nash pinpoint twister in a size 7 both choddy and inturn and they are excellent. Did you find that the wide gape from Korda always ended up in the scissor of carps mouth? But the twisters are centre of the lip?

[@brockfordjunktion]

I've used korda wide gape b size 8 for years, plenty of centre bottom lip hook holds. I've started using a curve shank for slip d rigs and have had some good results too.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Can't say I did on the rigs that I was fishing. Any change that results in the carp hooked in the bottom lip instead of the scissors is a good thing 👍

[@leec9435]

I think you’d like the esp trig hammers. Sharpest out of the packet hook I’ve tried and love the pattern.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Not fished with the trig hammers but yeah the Cryogens are good hooks.

[@backroomgeeza652]

Hi Matt, great video. In regards the NASH pinpoint range, would you use a fang size 8 on pop up presentations?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi mate, thanks for the feedback. I don't use curved shank hooks at all, for popups, I'd just use a twister or a chod twister depending on the hook link material I use. Cheers, Matt

[@backroomgeeza652]

@@matthewcollinsangler cheers Matt. I had thought about going over to smaller hooks in the past, but have seen comments around 'the bait being too big for the hook'... is this a real thing? for example, would a 15m boilie be ok on a size 8 hook? im guessing so from watching that video.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

@@backroomgeeza652 I'd happily use an 18mm bait on a size 8 but it does depend somewhat on the hook pattern. Just make sure there's decent separation between the hook and the bait. Cheers, Matt

[@mickradford1606]

always used carp r us short shank nailers, s8. a down turned eye also always turns the hook into the lip.

[@runerune-_-9727]

Its a interresting video. Fun thing is, regardless of theories u explain. I switched to Nash hooks and I actully had way more hook pulls on those hooks than i ever had with my korda hooks. So I went back to korda

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi, based on what you say, I think that if you re-use hooks between fish, then the shorter stubbier point of the Korda will suit you better. The long fine point of the Nash is generally only good for one carp, and then you’d have to re-sharpen or change them. I re-use a Nash hook 2 or 3 times max with re-sharpening in between. If you try to re-use the Nash without sharpening, you will get hook pulls. I made a video on hook pulls if you haven’t seen it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4Gni4lvrb6Si6M. Cheers, Matt

[@dk2428]

Thanks for this one Matthew, been ridiculed many times for being an advocate of smaller hook sizes. Meanwhile i'm using Armapoint's in size 8 for the last 15 years or so, with a better rate of landing fishes and without any issues. So yeah, it definitely improved my fishing.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great to hear 😊

[@michaelboyle9889]

Really good advice as allways Matthew I use size 6 but I will give size 8 a go to see how it goes .👍👍

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great to hear Michael, hope it goes well for you 👍

[@gwl78]

I use 2's and 4's and have done for years I don't have any problems using them and have caught 100s of fish.

[@stephenport4768]

Carp Spirit hooks are so hypodermically sharp my favourites are the BBP boilie beaked points and the curve shank SCS they are smaller than a korda hook in a size 6 its either them or the Nash Pinpoints

[@petekeightley2973]

I've found that the Korda Basix size 8 is pretty sharp straight out the packet.

[@jameshilton538]

Good video and I understand the logic in how you arrived at your conclusions. However I think one thing overlooked is how the fish deals with the hook and the associated ‘anti ejection’ properties. I think larger fish can deal with a smaller hook easier when blowing out then a larger size 4. And when you refer to there being a 25% difference in force being require for penetration this has to be taken into account with lead size rather then just gauge alone

[@matthewcollinsangler]

That’s an interesting point… I have a different experience, I don’t rely on the weight of the lead to hook the carp. I rely on a semi tight clutch set to deliver a couple of pounds of force.

[@jameshilton538]

Same principle from lead from clutch. 25% of a ounce of force is a lot smaller then 25% of a 4 ounce lead. A size 4 hook on a 4 ounce lead will penetrate faster then a size 8 on a one ounce lead.

[@yosipko5282]

My favorite hooks for fishing are Owner. I tested many kind on thumb, and only Owner ones have hooked me multiple times that i need pliers to get them out of finger. They are bit smaller (Owner size 10 is like other hooks size 14).

[@SidewinderProjects]

Great information about the hooks, can you please tell me what you are using to sharpen your hooks. I guess it's a diamond file of some sort can you recommend a particular brand ? thank you. Best regards..Terry..

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi Terry, thanks for the feedback on the video. These are the exact products I use for my hook sharpening: Vallorbe Swiss hand file: www.axminstertools.com/vallorbe-swiss-hand-files-ax22596?glCountry=GB&glCurrency=GBP Slipstone: www.axminstertools.com/traditional-shaped-water-slip-stones-ax23399?glCountry=GB&glCurrency=GBP Jag Products vice: www.jagproducts.co.uk/product-page/sp-vice Nash pinpoint LED eye glass: amzn.to/3ASNMlv Cheers, Matt

[@tomwinterfishing9065]

Have a look at ESP Trig Hammers. Wicked sharp, long shank hook, quite fine wire. Be interesting to see a head to head with your Nash ones... I've been using some very big baits lately (25mm), so have used 4s or even size 2 hooks with heavy leads. In the situation, I think it was the right thing to do, but on a different venue, I'm going to experiment with smaller hooks. A few years ago, I was often fishing with size 10 or 8s, with a float and 10lb line and doing really well, often catching 2 or 3 nice carp on after work sessions. Bloody good fun it was too!

[@matthewcollinsangler]

That's interesting to hear mate, thanks. I made this video because I'd got into the habit of only using size 4's and I was surprised that I could 'get away' with using an 8!

[@Cryptoalexxxxx]

Trigs are good hooks, but not strong

[@tomwinterfishing9065]

True. I’d be worried using them on waters where letting a fish run isn’t an option. That’s when the Bank Tackle Wide Gapes come out: you could land a Hilux on those.

[@adamcsilinko902]

Hi Matt, excellent video as always. How does the bait size affect the hook size? When do you think it covers? Does it cover the hook? I would like to try your D-Rig solution what you presented on of your video before. I use wafter and bottombaits from the bag in 15 mm and 20 mm. For 15 mm bait, size 6 and 8of the Nash Pinpoint Chod Twister Hook must be fine, but a 20 mm wafter does it cover the hook size 6 or 8? For 20 mm wafters or groundbaits, which hook size do you think is good?

[@aarondavies8486]

I'd use a 6 for 20mm and I do use 15 to 18mm on 8s all the times it's all I'd use tbh mate

[@aarondavies8486]

I use a D rig with just a soft braid tied just using a knotless knot and I only use one pattern the nash claw people get put off by the shape but I have found no other hook sits on the lip like they do

[@matthewcollinsangler]

You can use size 6 for 18mm and bigger. Size 8's are great with 12 and 15mm. Thanks for the feedback 😊

[@markgoodger5794]

Love to know your thoughts on pallatrax gripz hooks i’ve been using them for about nine months and I haven’t lost any fish a new design in hooks

[@matthewcollinsangler]

I haven't tested them mate. TBH I don't buy the hype, for me, hook pulls are caused by blunt hooks.

[@markgoodger5794]

@@matthewcollinsangler hi mate, thanks for your reply really appreciate it I think you should keep them a go against other barbless hooks and have a proper in-depth look, and you can call the video don’t believe the hype Really do enjoy your videos mate keep up the good work

[@DrewPeacock1996]

Would be good to see you try the carp spirit razor point range of hooks. Very underrated in my opinion.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thanks Ryan. I have tested them, point durability is good but they don't have the same fineness of point that I am looking for. All depends where you're fishing. Cheers, Matt

[@Matto8827]

My hook size has increased over the years from a size 10 to a size 4. I wouldn’t say I’ve noticed much difference in catch rate. I’ve probably just followed a trend. I think sometimes it’s what just gives you confidence but I do follow your advice and now I’m thinking maybe I should step down too🙈🤣 currently using the cygnet hook range and couldn’t fault them

[@matthewcollinsangler]

I checked out the cygnets recently and I was very impressed how sharp they look, haven't done a strength test yet but they're the closest I've seen to the pinpoints. Cheers, Matt

[@SPS_survivor]

Hey Matt, as the saying goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it 🎣

[@aquaticcolledgefishing]

Very informative I have never looked at comparisons I just get sucked in by social media reccomedations... BTW what bite indicators were you using in the video ?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

I was using the Nash R3's.

[@aquaticcolledgefishing]

@Matthew Collins I meant the hanging indicators not the alarms 😅

[@matthewcollinsangler]

@@aquaticcolledgefishing Ah right! They're Matrix Innovations headlight hangers, available in stainless or black plastic, I've had them years, simple, robust and effective 👍

[@aquaticcolledgefishing]

@Matthew Collins they look fantastic ty. And thanks for the great content 👍

[@charlesbarnett2724]

Great video. Cheers

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thank you 😊

[@paulhigham6047]

I use the Nash Claw in size 8 for ALL my rigs.

[@hooksharpening9104]

Great video!!! I couldn't find back in Facebook your post regarding this video. What I want to say from my said that I'm thinking that on river especially where trees are it's difficult to use small hook. This is my opinion. What do you think about this?? All the best !!!

[@matthewcollinsangler]

For the river, I still use a size 6 just to give me a bit of extra margin 👍

[@invaliduser1111]

Matt, i'm about to fish on a really big venue, for 2 days session. There are really big carps which weights more than 10KGs. Is it ok, if I use size 7 Chod Twister with a hair rig ?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Yes mate, absolutely, I’ve banked 22kg carp on size 8 chod twisters. You’ll have zero issues with the 7’s 👍

[@invaliduser1111]

Alright, thanks for the tip. Don't stop making your content, it's really helping me to keep on going. 😄

[@invaliduser1111]

I've tested out your running lead system with chod twister size 7 D-rig. I had 4 takes, every single one succesfully banked. Your running system worked great ! 👍

[@matthewcollinsangler]

@@invaliduser1111 Great to hear, congrats 👍

[@bradhorner1358]

Thanks Matt hope u are well so you are saying pinpoint barbless hooks size 8 are the best?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi Brad, for the fishing I'm doing on a small/medium sized estate lake, they're perfect. On big public venues and the river, I go up to a 6 just to give me a bit of extra margin.

[@dalesmith5558]

I’ve tried the ESP Trig Hammers and I always sharpen my hooks. I’ve found these almost unsharpenable, if that’s even a word. They are razor sharp out of the pack in my experience. However, I prefer the new Claw Hammers and these will take a small amount of sharpening. The wire gauge I am not sure on that to be honest but those Claw Hammers, sharpened with my Jag kit, are awesome.

[@gmanp3028]

Great hooks 👍 the esp hooks a seriously strong and hold a point once shrarpend

[@chahirelghazzal5984]

Maybe you could try the brand called Pole Position. Those are very sharp too. They have made them in collaboration with Gamakatsu.

[@Yosser70]

I thing another thing with hook size is they seem to have grown over the years. A size 6 now is like a size 2 from 30 years ago, they’ve crept up in size and us that use to fish with size 2 Jack Hiltons, have it in our heads that a 2 is a good size. I’ve definitely gone down in hook size over recent years.

[@punana4]

I found i catch bigger fish since switching to size 4s . Beating my pb twice last year . I imagine a bigger hook is harder to spit out for carp

[@js543]

Size 4 Kurv shank are razor sharp and very strong, I won’t be changing unless I’m dropping from a boat with an 8 oz lead and against snags

[@beejay3728]

Matt I haven't fished for 2 or 3 years but have just started up again, basically I have quite a few packs of unused hooks, do you think I can still use them all this time later, or do they lose there sharpness just sitting there ?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi there, as long as the hooks have been stored dry, then they should be absolutely fine. Inspect the packets for rust. If they've been kicking about at the bottom of a fishing bag and the packets are torn, damaged or there are hook marks pressed into the packet and signs of rust, then bin them. Welcome back to the sport 😊

[@haloskihulk8125]

putt the marketing aside! this man...exccuse me MISTER! is the angling genius! Im from Slovenia and i putt allot of my free time in to allround angling and when i got no time i watch Fishing theme YT videos.... And about Carp fishing i only toke advice from him!! He made my fishing trough his videos more symplified and much more effective than KORDA, FOX, NASH,... Marketing rubish...in a few years has cost me allot of money on non necesery tackle... THANKS Mr. COLLINS!

[@matthewcollinsangler]

WOW, that's wonderful to hear, thank you very much, it means a lot! 😊

[@pawelcyprys7442]

Hi Mat you sholud try the Pole Position range of hooks made by gamakatsu. I paranoid about hooks sharpness and agree with you with many things. Physick is simple: finer, sharper hooks penetrated faster and deeper but it also more susceptible to damage. I usually use hooks in size 6 but depending on the conditions, the place of fishing and patent of the hook itself I change them to size 4 or 8. I try to check hooks point after every fish and resharpen them if it s needed ( even that i found very sharp hook is done after 3-4 carp landed). If I fish in waters where there are also other species of fish, such as grass carp or sturgeon, it often happens that the hook tip after landing in such a fish is no longer suitable for re-sharpening. As always, a lot of knowledge in your videos and please keep it up. Regards

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thanks for the feedback 😊 I haven’t tried the Pole Position hooks yet, thanks for the recommendation.

[@warrendunn8569]

I've found the Korda Kamakura to be really sharp. Your experience of slight hook straightening when applying pressure is a bit of a worry, so I will try the Nash hooks as well.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi Warren, I tested the kamakuras but IMO they have no point strength so they’re too weak for fishing at Beausoleil due to the toughness of the carp's mouths. Some guests have tried them here and it didn't go well.

[@warrendunn8569]

@@matthewcollinsangler Hi Matthew, Thanks for the info. Let's be honest; nobody wants to learn the hard way regarding hook strength.

[@gertjanmafrans9506]

Hi Matthew, like you i tried a lot of hooks of various different brands. I also found out the nash pinpoint hooks are the best. I use the curve shank. But last weekend saw the hooks of forgotten flavours and they look extremely sharp. I need to test them in a fishing situation but from what I tested at home they are really good. Maybe a brand you can try yourself. Thanks for the great videos.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thank you for the comment and the recommendation Gertjan 👍

[@basiglio81]

they look the vmc hooks and are same of carpspirit.

[@gertjanmafrans9506]

@@basiglio81 do you have any experience with these hooks?

[@basiglio81]

carp spirit are good. i've seen the hooks of forgotten flavour last week at carp den bosh and almost sure that are vmc. also avid carp are vmc

[@Trevski220]

A very interesting and well thought out video, but I’m Curios why you didn’t try a wide gape from Korda in kamakura form? The wide gape X deliberately being a thicker Gauge of wire it seems a strange choice to compare against a pinpoint especially when you are comparing the wire gauge specifically.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi, thanks for the feedback and I totally see where you’re coming from. I compared these two hooks because this is the direction in which my fishing has evolved over the last couple of years. I tested the kamakuras and they’re not for me as the point is too weak. Cheers, Matt

[@Trevski220]

@@matthewcollinsangler Thanks for the reply and explanation, I’ve been using Kamakura hooks for a couple of years now, but i must agree the points do turn over/bend very easily, Perhaps I’ll take a look at the pinpoint range.

[@jsavage2811]

I dropped from 2-4 down to 6's last season, I was dropping more than I would like which on the river and with a handful of fish in a season losing fish hurts! I shortened the rig down slightly and dropped to size 6's after fishing with a mate and didn't lose another fish all season, including a couple of relentless 20's that were absolutely nailed. I now have a LOT of faith in the bank tackle wide gapes and continentals.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Great to hear mate 👍

[@gavincorbett1272]

Have u ever used the ACE hooks ? I use them in a size 6 and never had any issues with them.

[@gavincorbett1272]

@@cipriankatana7077 yes I thought they were the same hooks but not used them since has I bought a job lot of them a few years ago

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Yes mate, I tested them and they're strong enough but for me the hook point fineness isn't in the same league as the pinpoints. Great if they're working for you.

[@gavincorbett1272]

@@matthewcollinsangler i always thought they were sharp ...I've never used the pinpoint hooks...might check them out if they are as good as u say 👍

[@moneygetten]

Cw, carp whisperer Hooks are 👌

[@DjDolHaus86]

In terms of penetration I don't think you are wrong with your comparisons to hypodermics or that a thicker gauge of wire increases the force required to continue penetrating, that's just surface area adding to friction. However, I am not convinced that the hook point fully penetrates during the pick up (ie. lifting the lead completely off the deck) and is instead driven home when proper contact is made between rod/fish and as such there is (within reasonable conditions) always adequate force to achieve proper penetration. A good test to illustrate this is to pick up a rig + lead with the point touching something like rig foam (I suppose raw chicken might be a more accurate medium?) to replicate what happens when a fish gets pricked. My hook of choice for a good few years now has been the ESP Cryogen range, thinner gauge wire than competitors (1mm on a 4) with comparable/greater strength and they hold a point really well. I fish a lot of snaggy waters so require hit and hold capability and I've yet to have one open out.

[@Thewebbels]

You should try the poleposition hooks and then the type S-type.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Thanks for the recommendation Dennis

[@darrylclarkson4208]

I've used curve pinpoint hooks, and when they go in I've had to use long nosed players to get them out!! they are very good but korda kamakuras are lethally sharp!!! I use the wide gape X for snags 6's and wide gape kamakuras 6's for more open water and I've never lost a fish on them. I think unless your fishing for huge fish a 4 is just not needed.

[@goonernumone8444]

Just my opinion but if you have had to use long nose to remove the hook, well I am not saying you have caused damage as I cannot say that (& I'm not so we're clear) however maybe enjoy the fight more by making it last longer & giving them less stick ( if snag free in open water) so many variables the main thing is you removed the hook & applied some form of medicare - happy angling 🎣🎣

[@matthewcollinsangler]

I tested the kamakuras but IMO they have no point strength so they’re too weak for my needs.

[@james6495]

What about for fishing rivers and canals? Would up your hook size?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

It depends on how big the fish go and the nature of the environment. For the last couple of years, I’ve used the Nash 6 chod twisters on a mono d rig for all my river carping and I’ve landed every fish and had carp to 48lbs. There is a spot I know where I’ve been bust up a few times with big carp or a big cat and if I went back to that spot, I’d go one or two sizes up. It’s a unique challenge, it’s a large weir pool with big fish, lots of rocks and zebra mussels and I’d be taking my gear to the limit and beyond. If you’re river fishing in the UK, I don’t think you’d need to go beyond a size 6 in this pattern. Cheers, Matt

[@james6495]

@@matthewcollinsangler cheers mate

[@beejay3728]

Have you tried IB hooks they have all types of carp hooks but they all come hand sharpened,they are very sharp indeed. you need to order online.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Never seen them mate.

[@fr0sty_nugz]

Quality vid

[@tamarin911]

Do you think the size 8 LS works good with a regular mono hair- rig? Thanks.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi, I haven't tested a long shank pattern on the mono hair rig. That rig works really well with the Nash chod twister. If you want to use a long shank with any mono, you should use a small kicker or shrink tube to manage the exit angle of the hooklink. Cheers, Matt

[@tamarin911]

@@matthewcollinsangler Another question, why do you compare wir a "Wide Gape X"? A standard Korda "Wide Gape" diameter is also 0,9mm.

[@matthewcollinsangler]

@@tamarin911 I compared these two hooks because this is the direction in which my fishing has evolved over the last couple of years. I did experiment with the Korda wide gape X hooks in a size 6 but I had some open out on me so going to a size 8 or the thinner gauge didn’t feel right. When I was researching this video I did the vernier test with a Korda size 8 wide gape X which is 1.0 and I was very surprised that the point was not finer, or sharper than the size 4. The standard gauge hook point would have the same issue. It’s all down to the point geometry.

[@speakupreality633]

What about the Korda hooks? What is your favourite product? I haven't heard of the brand Nash?! Are they any good?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Nash are another big brand like Korda. Big fan of their products especially their hooks (twisters and chod twisters).

[@danieljacobs723]

Have a look at the ESP cryogen range, my personal favourite being the trig hammers. Unbelievable hooks

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Not fished with the trig hammers but yeah the Cryogens are good hooks.

[@D.R.W_edits]

Matt do you still hand sharpen up the Pinpoint hooks in your own fishing?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

Hi there, I use the Nash pinpoints straight out of the packet because they are one of the sharpest hooks on the market. After a fish, I check the hook and if it needs it, I’ll use a hone to touch up the point to get it back to perfection. I still hand sharpen in the winter when conditions are tough.

[@D.R.W_edits]

@@matthewcollinsangler Beaked or straight point for Barbless hooks in your opinion Matt or does it make no difference?

[@matthewcollinsangler]

@@D.R.W_edits Hi mate, to be honest I don’t believe it makes a difference, it’s just a confidence thing. I’ve been using the straight point Nash twisters in barbless for the last 3 years, either the standard version or the chod, and they’ve never let me down. The only time I’d need the Nash chod claw is when I’m using the 35lb skinlink without coating removed to create a heavy duty multi rig, not because of the beaked point but because of the large eye diameter.

[@scrotexboy]

you cant buy those t-6 esp raptors anymore for some reason, cnt find anything online about why either