As the close-up photo shows, little circle hooks jaw-hooked the small sunnies, making for an easy release. Specifically, I used size 12 Eagle Claw “Circle Bait” hooks, model L702G.

When should you use octopus, circle, barbless, single siwash, and treble hooks? What's the difference between them, and ...

Learn how to unhook fish properly using pliers, barbless hooks, and other tips to reduce harm and help fish survive after release.

Hold the fish upside down while removing the hook. This can calm the fish for quicker unhooking and release. Use hemostats or long nose pliers to aid in removing a hook quickly and safely.

To help striped bass levels, the DEP will require anglers to use circle hooks when catch-and-release fishing for striped bass effective Jan. 1, 2021.