Here is a little gizmo that doesn't cost much but will give you lots of mileage.

Pictured to the right is a sharpening stone made especially for fish hooks. All you need to do to bring a dull hook back to life is run it along the groove at a 45 degree angle a few times and your hooks are as good as new.

There are several styles available from a simple model like I use to battery powered units where all you have to do is hold the hook. The only problem I had with those is that the battery was always dead when I had dull hooks!

Either the battery model or a manual one works out better than trying to bring your hooks back to life with a needle file like I used to do.

Using a file to sharpen hooks
It's not that much hassle to use a file to sharpen fish hooks. The strongest recommendation I can make is, "DON'T TRY TO CHANGE THE ANGLE OF THE POINT!"

Wear your glasses, use a magnifying glass or whatever it takes. Just make sure you follow the contour that's already there. Don't try to alter the point in any way other than making it sharp again!

I'd rather use something besides a file to sharpen hooks!

Following the old point, simply file one side a couple of strokes and then an equal number of strokes on the other side. Then, test the sharpness by dragging the hook lightly across your thumbnail. If the hook slides along, it's back to the drawing board because the hook needs to be sharper. A hook that is sharp will catch on your nail with very little pressure.

If you have a hook with more sides, you'll want to give each one attention. The thing to remember is to give each edge the same number of strokes with the file.

When I was a kid I ran across some hooks that had a conical point, much like a needle. I don't remember the company's name but, the hooks were the pits. Like a knife that won't hold an edge, these things were forever getting dull. I ended up throwing them away so, I don't know anything about sharpening this kind of hook or if they're still around. Sorry!

Until next time--watch yourself and watch your line!

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Posted By: James Rickard - Category: helpful products, practical ideas

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Comments

7 Comments. [ Add A Comment ]

Comment by Lara M

April 3rd 2008 01:10

Love Speaks

Another fishing gadget! Always useful

Comment by James Rickard

April 3rd 2008 01:23

unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish

Fishing gadgets are usually pretty cheap. This one was like 2 or 3 bucks!

Comment by Aimzster

April 3rd 2008 01:46

Health and Beauty
Reality TV
The Jeepney Stop

James, I'll remember that when my hubby and I go fishing again. He's the worst fisherman I know.

Comment by James Rickard

April 3rd 2008 01:49

unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish

Does he know you feel that way? (All of us guys have to stick together!)

Comment by tlcorbin

April 3rd 2008 20:02

Coffee Quip
A Global Citizen
Paranormal Paranormal
Is Why
Alaska Chronicle

It is a mandatory tool, along with a can opener and lighter James. Raven

Comment by James Rickard

April 3rd 2008 22:55

unlucky_ fishermen.com
Angling Fish

Guess I'm too used to the twist offs, Raven.

Comment by tlcorbin

April 4th 2008 00:56

Coffee Quip
A Global Citizen
Paranormal Paranormal
Is Why
Alaska Chronicle

hahahaha, for the snacks James, for the snacks. Raven

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