Thread: maggots

I've been using them almost exclusively for over 10 years. They're a killer bait.

I don't think you have to go that small for hooks. I have used a #20 on occasion, but I generally use a #14 or #16 dry fly hook. If you're going to use hooks that size, get a disgorger and learn to use it. It's much better than pliers or hemostats:

http://www.lindyfishingtackle.com/ta...ger&by_title=Y

Each maggot has a "fat end" and a "pointed end". You just want to lightly skin hook the fat end. That way, the maggot stays very frisky. Don't thread them on the hook. Here's a couple of pics of how to correctly hook one:





In the second picture, you can see a dark spot on the maggots. That's called the "feeding spot". A big, dark spot means the maggot's tummy is full, and he is very fresh. A small or nonexistent spot means the maggot is old.

As you can see, these maggots are red. They are available in several colors, if you order them from a dealer. I always get plain white, though. The dye they use to color the maggots shortens their lives.