Hi all,

I could use your advice on selecting the right hook pattern or change anything else for a situation I faced.

For the past year, I've used the ESP Trig-Hammer size 5 for my spinner rig, which has performed fine until last night. I was fishing a new spot where I needed to block a fish after the bite because of some poles in the water.

After initial contact where I was not able to turn the fish, it felt like a really heavy fish and it kept trying to reach the snags, I lost connection and upon winding in, the hook apparently straightened out. I'm fishing at about 15 wraps distance with fluorocarbon and Free Spirit ES rods, so I thought to have enough cushioning to absorb the force.



Is this just bad luck, or do I need to change something? Different hook, different rig, or?

Thanks guys, I much appreciate any response

In reply to Post #1
I've had 3 esp hooks two of which bent out and one completely snapped in half.
Don't buy them anymore.

In reply to Post #1
Never had one open out on me. They do a XT version now which you could try.

In reply to Post #1
use the XT version, had same problem, XT solved it

Thanks guys! Hadn't seen the XT version before. I've ordered some packs, trusting they'll hold up better.

In reply to Post #1
It's a fault with the hook mate - they have a weak point on the bend, happened to me several times. Go for the XT version, they are strong and you wont get this problem. Very good hooks.

In reply to Post #6
I'll give the xt a go if it's that good. What rigs are people using with the trig hammer, quite an odd shape, other than a Ronnie.

All ready to go now! Hoping the next one will stay on

Thanks for the help.

In reply to Post #7
They are superb on slip d rig

In reply to Post #7
Multi rigs

In reply to Post #7
On the spinner mate - they are deadly. No need to sharpen them up, straight out the packet.

In reply to Post #9
Pretty much what I use all the time now. Seems to work nicely.

I bought a pack of the originals and the moment I felt the flex in them. They got given away without ever using. I think esp pushed the limit with the shape and wire gauge and they knew it hence the XT. Excellent hooks, will work with any rig I expect. Slip D or blow back for me

In reply to Post #13
Indeed, you need the XT version, best for ronnie rig😊

A friend of mine has been using ESP hooks for years (can't remember the pattern) but he says they've become one fish hooks at best and he'll often reel in to find the points have dulled very quickly.
He's lost all confidence in them and is in that horrible position of chopping and changing looking for something he likes and trusts.