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Just slow gradual pressure until you feel for sure you are on, then you can pop it.
No question, woodchip and I are on the same page (at least with hooks, not size of holes ) I only fish Gamakatsu hooks from 6" trout, to 200lb tuna. Only exception is Owner Super Muto for deep dropping. Salmon and Togue I use Gamagatsu #6, maybe #8 if very finicky, Octopus....always use red hooks. It does seem to make a difference. Circle hooks work well in the ocean, bigger fish, tougher mouths, and usually less finicky. Using circle hooks, imo, you should snell the hooks to create the correct angle. It is a challenge, not to "set" the hook when using circles until it becomes habit