The first thing that fishermen and women "balk" at, when first seeing a circle hook is the fact that the gap of the hook (distance between the point and the shank) is relatively small. The point of the hook comes directly in towards the shank the distance of the radius (1/2 the diameter) of the circle. Pointing the "business end" of the hook away from the fish goes against everything we were taught as young fishermen. For those of us who hunt the Rockfish (Striped Bass) and "Bull" Red Drum of Assateague Island, it is a re-education.

Some interesting facts are that this design was primarily used in long-line fishing, and before that, by our ancestors. They were used for a good reason. Simply stated, the fish hook themselves and 95% of the time, in the lip. This meant that they were usually still alive when the lines were checked.

Circle hook effectiveness is based on Math and Physics, specifically, Newton's second law of motion and centripetal (center-seeking force). Just as when you drive around a curve in your car and lean towards the door. As velocity accelerates on the circle, the centripetal force (the car door) is towards the center.

It is important to note, that using these hooks is not a complete "no brainer." It's been my experience using these on Assateague for the last few years, that there are some tips one should follow:

	All Circle Hooks are NOT created equal. Size and sharpness vary from brand to brand.
	Do NOT use stainless steel hooks; if broken off it will never deteriorate.
	Use a knife to pierce your bait.
	Hammer your sand spike into the sand with a mallet. (OK I warned you)
	Loosen your drag to "pull tension." (Warning #2)
	Most fish are hooked solidly by the time you see or hear the run don't panic!
	Do NOT jerk back and set the hook when a fish picks up you may yank it right out of it's gullet without catching the jaw. (Last Warning)
	Easy does it let them run a little. Pick-up & tighten your drag keep the rod tip up, walk backwards and reel (did I say don't panic?) & have fun!
	Do NOT use really light tackle on the beach for Striped Bass and Drum. Too long of a fight builds up acid in the fish and will probably kill it, even if it's released.
	If you plan to release a fish RELEASE IT! Excessive handling will often degrade the protective mucous and will often result in death by parasites.

Circle hooks are perfect for fishing.

They result in the fish almost always being hooked by their own momentum and being landed in good condition.

We should all keep in mind that the large Drum and Striped Bass that visit Assateague are older mature breeding stock. Releasing most of them in good shape is the right thing to do.

Some surfcasters and jetty fishermen look down their nose at bait soaking sand spike fishermen to begin with. Using a hook that eliminates more of the "fisherman factor", will, I'm sure only add to the prejudice but so be it!