Tackle Twist

Tools of the hook rehab trade. Photo: Jose Chavez

Owner Twistlock hooks—and their imitations—run a costly buck or two each. They are worth the coin. The Centering Pin Spring (the Twistlock) anchors plastic baits in place, giving them that straight and natural look.

Twistlock hooks are durable, but nothing lasts forever. Add salt, it’s even worse.

Eventually a hook weathers. A little rust develops, the point dulls, and you have to wonder. Am I going to give my catch blood poisoning? And that’s if the point even bites.

Don’t send it to hook heaven. Everything you need to restore that Twistlock to wickedly sharp like-new condition is most likely in your garage. It’s simple. Spend a little time; save a lot of money.

Here is what you need:
1.  A rusty hook.
2.  Pliers.
3.  A wire brush or preferably a Dremel tool with a wire brush attachment.
4.  A hook sharpener.

Here is how you do it:

1.  Remove the Twistlock pin from the hook.

2.  Hold the hook firmly with pliers while gently working the wire brush over the weathered areas.

Step 2. Give it a good brushing. Photo: Jose Chavez

3.  Reinstall the precious Twistlock pin.
4.  Sharpen the hook using the hook sharpener.

Put the bite back in that stinger. Photo: Jose Chavez

5.  Go fishing.

Clean and mean. Go fish! Photo: Jose Chavez