Page 11 - Crappie NOW | September 2016

Crappie Basics

Crappie Basics #120 Aberdeen Hooks

I remember my Mom using big gold hooks on black braided line. The line
was attached to a long cane pole dad had cut and dried. A big squeeze-on sinker
and a real cork float with a red peg finished the rig. Mom later advanced to zip
fiberglass poles and monofilament line but the big Aberdeen crappie hook was
always on the end.
Why did the Aberdeen light-wire hooks become so popular for crappie?
Because the hook was designed and tempered to bend and come free when
hung in cover. The hook could be bent back into shape and returned to fishing
without retying.
Today the extra-light wire 214EL hooks are a top Eagle Claw seller for
crappie. The smaller diameter hook doesn’t do as much damage to the minnow.
Its light weight allows the minnow better swimming action. It bends easily without
breaking relatively small monofilament line. …Tim Huffman

11 Crappie NOW September 2016