Quick verdict
Best overall for most salmon setups: the Barbless 'Legal' Salmon Circle. Circles tend to reduce gut-hooking, are easier on the fish during release, and many jurisdictions prefer or require circle hooks for catch-and-release salmon.
When to choose other options (and why)
- Stinger Siwash (with a trailing hook) plus a main hook (like a circle) is the go-to for side-drifting with bait rigs. Use a smaller trailing hook (ST-36) for smaller bait, or the larger ST-41 for bigger baits. The trailing stinger catches fish that miss the front hook.
- Dancing Stingers add extra bite and action, which can help when salmon are finicky or water is a bit murky.
- No Escape hooks are another trailing option on aggressive rigs when you’re fighting strong runs and want a backup hook to improve landing odds.
- Herring Hook: if you’re specifically rigging with whole herring and want a dedicated rig, a larger stinger (ST-41) paired with a main circle can work well; for general use, circles still outcatch straight hooks for releasing fish.
- ST-36 vs ST-41: ST-36 is a good all-around smaller trailing hook for standard bait rigs; ST-41 handles larger bait or bigger king salmon better.
- SSW Straight Eye: a solid choice when you prefer a straight alignment for easier leader attachment and reduced line twist, but it won’t beat circle hooks for catch-and-release in many fisheries.
How I’d rig it (mid fall conditions)
- Primary hook: Barbless Salmon Circle (for legal releases and solid hook-up on the lip).
- Trailing hook (stinger): ST-36 or ST-41 depending on bait size; add a Dancing Stinger if bites are light.
- Leader: 12–20 lb test with a comfortable length for your water depth and current; keep the rig compact to avoid snagging.
- Rigging tip: keep the circle angled toward the corner of the mouth; avoid gut hooking by not forcing a gut set—let the fish take the bait and pull gently to set.
Quick weather-season note (mid fall)
Mid fall brings strong runs in many regions but cooler, clearer water can make fish wary. Steady drifts, precise bait presentation, and a clean rig with barbless or circle hooks will improve your hookup rate and post-release survival during this season.
If you want a quick visual guide, search for “salmon drift rig with circle hook” for instructional videos. Best of luck on the water—tight lines and steady patience! 🎣
