All anglers at some time have to change hooks on lures. Hooks that are dull, damaged, or rusty are going to lose fish. You need to change the hook. Sometimes the hook needs to be cut off to release a fish. Whatever the reason, it is a simple job. That only needs a few tools, hooks, and split rings. Replacing hooks on a lure is a few bucks or less. It is cheaper than replacing the lure. Watch the video at the end of the article on how to change the hooks.

Hook Replacement Tools and Items
- Wire cutters
- Split ring Pliers
- Hooks
- Split rings
These items are inexpensive. Wire cutters are for removing damaged hooks. The split ring pliers open the split rings for the hooks and attachment wire to pass through. Choose hooks the same size as the original hooks. Also buy short shank hooks for replacing the hooks. A different size will affect the action of the lure. Split rings come in many sizes but use the smallest one that works. The I.D. should match the hook eye. Split rings too small will get sprung. This will cause them to be weak. Rings too big cause hooking problems. Since the hooks will hang down too far.
Buy quality hooks and split rings. The cost is a few pennies more for each lure. Cheap hooks will not last and you will be replacing them often. The temper and the way hooks are sharpened make the quality. Mustad, VMC, Gamakatsu, and Owner make good hooks. There are other companies but these three hold up well and hold a point better. The hooks must stay sharp to penetrate effectively. Using damaged, dull, or low-quality hooks lose fish.
Changing the Hooks
Here is the video showing how to change hooks on lures. The procedure is the same for all lures with hanging hooks.
The pliers spread the split ring to slide it onto the lure and then allow the hook to be put on. You will find the split rings to be easier than other methods. The pliers are low-cost and worth buying.
The size of the pliers matters. A small pair will do small and large rings but some pliers are too big. The tip of the pliers has to fit inside of the rings. Size 6-8 hooks use rings with a 3.5 mm or 1/8 inch I.D. An assortment of rings is best, to begin with. Then replace the supply as they are used. This will keep you supplied with the right size for most hooks.
Check for Hooks, Pliers, and Split Rings at Bass Pro
Conclusion
I hope this helps with fixing a few lures for you. Losing a fish to bad hooks or tossing away a lure due to the hooks is unnecessary. The few minutes to change hooks is something anglers need to do at times. It is part of tackle maintenance that leads to successful fishing.
John McIntyre