Making a Point
So on the water one day I had a discussion with a friend of mine. I had hooked and lost almost every fish that found my line. We discussed the issues that could have lead to this and one stood out more than any others. When was the last time I sharpened my hooks, that answer was simple never. I have never felt the need to do this and thought well maybe it is time. So I figured I would learn a little and share this with everyone else. So here is how to sharpen the basic hook.
* First place your hook in the groove, with the point in the same direction your stroke or pass.
* Next hold the hook or point in the groove and pass it over the stone to the end of the groove.
* Because the hook is small, and thin be sure to use gentle pressure
It is always important to check your progress frequently just a few passes may be all you need. The best way to check that it is sharp enough is to hold the hook point over your thumb nail and gentle slid it over the nail. It should not slid over your nail freely it should dig in slightly. I now know that by taking time to sharpen my hooks, at least the ones that have been used quite a bite I will increase my hook ratio. There is nothing wrong with that.