I use offset circle hooks too sometimes for similar reasons. It is not the biggest sin in the world as long as you are aware what is really happening. My favorite circle hook comes ONLY in offset - this is the reason i use mine. Yes, every now and then I hook one in the throat, but i don't really catch trophies, so a fatality will just end up in the cooler and at home. If I fished something like Mississippi river or TN river with big baits then I would be more concerned.
Not yet. I haven't checked to see if it's too tall for the back of the CRV yet, so nothing is glued together or attached so I can take it apart if I need to. It would probably be best if I anchored it through the side of the sled and I might do that in the future to make sure I don't loose the cage. I do have the shack and auger sitting on top of the bottom crossbar, so I think the whole thing will probably have to tip over to lose the cage. (I'm sure I'll find a way to do it, though :) We are planning on heading up north tomorrow. If you see us, say hi!
I use offset circle hooks too sometimes for similar reasons. It is not the biggest sin in the world as long as you are aware what is really happening. My favorite circle hook comes ONLY in offset - this is the reason i use mine. Yes, every now and then I hook one in the throat, but i don't really catch trophies, so a fatality will just end up in the cooler and at home. If I fished something like Mississippi river or TN river with big baits then I would be more concerned.
that reel looks sweet
The reel is super sweet. Now I just need to catch some fish with it! :)
The wst whisker stick and okuma reel is exactly the same deadstick I'm gonna try..
Nice! Let me know how it works for ya.
Neat rigging you got for your sled. Are the pvc pipes fastened to your sled?
Not yet. I haven't checked to see if it's too tall for the back of the CRV yet, so nothing is glued together or attached so I can take it apart if I need to. It would probably be best if I anchored it through the side of the sled and I might do that in the future to make sure I don't loose the cage. I do have the shack and auger sitting on top of the bottom crossbar, so I think the whole thing will probably have to tip over to lose the cage. (I'm sure I'll find a way to do it, though :) We are planning on heading up north tomorrow. If you see us, say hi!