Every angler has had to make a choice between circle hooks and J hooks, For us, which one’s really better? Neither. And that’s why this argument will never end. In fact, circle hooks are better for some types of fishing, and J hooks are better for others. So, how do you know which to choose?
Circles are better when rods are fished in the holders; J’s work better when rods are held in the hand. This is usually the case by default, simply because many anglers can’t resist the urge to set the hook when they feel a bite. But setting the hook doesn’t work with a circle hook. With rods fished in the holder, of course, hook-sets become a non-issue.
By now, it should be perfectly clear that using circle hooks versus J hooks isn’t an either-or proposition—both types belong in your tacklebox. Choose which to use wisely, and you’ll end up with more fish in the cooler.