NODAK-
If you haven't used Swedish hooks before, you may want to test drive 'em before you use them in a tournament. I gave up on the dastardly things years ago, for what it's worth. I never felt like I got a good hook-set, and, at best, if you allow even the least bit of slack in your line (I know, I know, but sometimes it happens), poof, lost 'gator face.
I know pretty much always use a pretty simple treble hook rig. I puncture the smelts airsack, then insert a large treble hook (#2,4) shank-first up from the the bottom so just the eye is protuding up through the back near the front of the dorsal fin. Exact hook placement takes a little practice. It's important that the smelt hang close to level. The beauty of this is that you can prepare several baits in the warmth of your basement before the outing, hanging them one at a time from a leader in a bucket of water to check the angle of the dangle, then put them in a baggie and go. Now all you need to do is clip or tie onto the exposed hook eye and you're set. No big ole' hunk of exposed steel like a Swedish hook, and very rarely a dropped bait or a shake-off.
If you're catch-and-releasing, you can set the hook right away and will rarely miss. If you're fishing for the pan, give it a minute or two, and even the biggest smelt will be halfway down the gullett.
ONE MAN'S OPINION. I sure there are many who would disagree with me. Chime in!
TIME SPENT FISHING IS NOT DEDUCTED FROM MAN'S ALLOTTED TIME ON EARTH.
Pikemaster
