Gear Review: Gamakatsu SL12S Hooks
Tested Dependability
If you're looking for a solid saltwater hook that is dependable and proven, the Gamakatsu SL12S Hooks may be something to try. This hook simply doesn't let me down. I won't say I've never lost a fish on these hooks, but the landing ratio is very impressive. I've used these for GT's, sailfish, roosterfish, yellowfin tuna, dorado, albacore, tarpon, and even my largest ever Chinook salmon on the fly when using the SL12S with a big tube fly. I've never had one bend out and they seem to hold pretty dang well. Over the years, it seems like lots of other guys agree that this hook is simply effective.
Strength vs. Castability
The Gamakatsu SL12S Hooks are heavy enough to provide a super strong, dependable hook. I've talked to hundreds of customers about this hook and I've never heard of anyone bending one out before they suspected they should. They are light enough, however, that they are still castable. If it was up to me, they would be made on a slightly lighter wire so that the SL12S would produce an even lighter fly, but I can always move to the SC15 hooks if I need a lighter wire. The good news is, for folks that are using super heavy gel-spun backing, the SL12S hook is probably as good as anything for providing the strength you're looking for if you need to put that 50-80 pound backing to the test and hoping your hook can keep up.
The author fights a 100+ pound Belize tarpon hooked on a Gamakatsu SL12S Hook.
Durability & Rust Resistance
Gamakatsu SL12S Hooks are tin plated hooks. They aren't as rust resistant as stainless steel hooks, but they are close, and they are much less expensive at about half the cost per hook. During a saltwater trip, I like to keep the flies I've used in a separate fly box. After the trip, I take them all out and soak them in freshwater for a day or so. Then I lay them out on a towel to dry for a few days. Once they dry out, I put them back in the original box and I haven't had an issue losing flies to rust.
When you're looking for a strong saltwater hook for the giants of the sea, take a look at the Gamakatsu SL12S Hooks. Big tarpon, giant trevally, tuna, billfish, and other tippet testing fly rod species are scenarios where this hook really makes sense. They are available in size 2 to a whopping 8/0. The 4/0 size is the best selling size for roosterfish, average size tuna, jacks and dorado. The 1/0 and 2/0 is the best seller for tarpon. The 6/0 is the most popular size for sailfish.