The Owner Ringed Mutu Circle Hook is widely regarded as the best live bait circle hook for Southern California saltwater fishing. The welded ring on the eye gives the bait freedom of movement and provides a pivoting point on the strike — reducing hook pull on hard-running fish. The oversized barb keeps fish buttoned through the fight. Available in sizes 4 through 4/0 in standard packs, and 1/0 through 4/0 in Pro Packs for high-volume live bait fishing.

As with any circle hook, never set the hook. When you get bit, point the rod tip at the fish and wind until you feel the rod load up, then raise the rod tip slowly and hang on.

Key Features

• Welded Ring Eye — Allows the bait to swim naturally and provides a pivoting point on the strike; reduces hook pull on hard-running yellowtail and tuna.
• Oversized Barb — Large barb keeps fish buttoned through sustained pressure and head shakes; more holding power than standard circle hooks.
• Circle Hook Geometry — Inward-turned point self-sets in the corner of the mouth; reduces gut-hooking and improves release rates for catch-and-release fishing.
• Heavy Wire Construction — Built to handle the sustained pressure of large yellowtail, tuna, and white seabass on live bait.
• Corrosion-Resistant Finish — Withstands repeated saltwater exposure through a full day of live bait fishing.
• Pro Pack Option — 1/0–4/0 available in Pro Packs (22–34 hooks) for better per-hook value on high-volume trips.

Product Specifications

Best For

• Yellowtail on Live Anchovies & Sardines — Sizes 1/0–3/0 are the standard for yellowtail on live bait; the welded ring and circle geometry keep the hook in the corner of the mouth through the fight.
• Tuna on Live Bait — Sizes 2/0–4/0 for larger sardines and mackerel on tuna; heavy wire handles the sustained pressure of a hard-running tuna.
• White Seabass — Sizes 1/0–2/0 for white seabass on live squid and anchovies; circle hook geometry reduces gut-hooking for catch-and-release.
• High-Volume Live Bait Fishing — Pro Packs (1/0–4/0) offer better per-hook value for charter trips and anglers who go through hooks quickly.

Tackle Express Tips:

• When setting the hook on a circle hook, don't raise the rod tip but rather wind until line starts coming off the reel.  Then raise the rod tip and you're hooked.
• Collar or butt hooking the sardine or mackerel is the best way to get it to swim strong.  A strong swimming bait gets bit better.
• Store your hooks in a box or bag but don't mix used hooks with saltwater on them with your good hook.  The rust will transfer to all of them in your box.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What size Owner Mutu Circle Hook is best for yellowtail? — Size 1/0 to 2/0 is the most common choice for yellowtail on live anchovies and sardines. Go up to 3/0 for larger sardines or when targeting bigger fish.
• Do I set the hook with a circle hook? — No. With any circle hook, never set the hook. When you get bit, point the rod tip at the fish and wind until you feel the rod load up, then raise the rod tip slowly. The circle geometry self-sets in the corner of the mouth.
• What’s the difference between the standard pack and the Pro Pack? — Same hook, more per pack. Pro Packs are available in 1/0–4/0 and contain 22–34 hooks vs. 4–6 in the standard pack — better per-hook value for high-volume live bait fishing.
• Is the Owner Mutu Circle Hook good for tuna? — Yes. Sizes 2/0–4/0 are commonly used for tuna on live sardines and mackerel. The heavy wire and oversized barb handle the sustained pressure of a hard-running tuna.

Owner Aki Twist Bait Hooks pair a long shank, offset point, and heavy-gauge wire for fishing squid in Southern California saltwater. They are a Tackle Express go-to for squid presentations targeting white seabass and yellowtail, especially when a substantial bait calls for a sturdy big-game hook.

Give Your Squid Rig a Strong Foundation

A full-size squid needs a hook that suits the bait, not just the fish you hope to catch. The Aki Twist's long shank gives you room to thread the squid, while its heavy-gauge construction emphasizes strength for demanding fishing. Choose it when a robust squid presentation is the priority; match the hook size to your actual bait rather than automatically choosing the largest size.

For a whole, uncut squid, we follow Brandon Hayward's recommendation of a 7/0. That is a starting point for this presentation, not a universal size recommendation for every squid or rig.

Rig It for White Seabass and Yellowtail

Thread the hook through the squid two or three times, then fish it on a dropper loop or with a glow slider. On a dropper loop, we like the hook about three feet from the weight. With a glow slider, let the sinker slide all the way down to the hook.

We often use 1/4 oz, 3/8 oz, and 1/2 oz sliders for white seabass and yellowtail. A crane swivel is another rigging option for added security and bait action: this style allows the bait to move 360 degrees around the main line.

Best for: Southern California squid fishing, white seabass and yellowtail bait presentations, dropper-loop rigs, and glow-slider setups. Choose this hook when fishing squid in conditions that call for a heavy-gauge hook, then adjust your rig and weight to the depth and current.

The Details That Matter on the Water

• Long shank: Room to thread squid through the hook two or three times.
• Offset point: Part of the Aki Twist bait-hook design.
• Heavy-gauge wire: A sturdy construction for demanding saltwater bait fishing.
• Size range: 1/0 through 8/0, with pack quantity varying by size.

Find Your Hook Size

Tackle Express Tips

• Start with a 7/0 for a whole squid, following Brandon Hayward's recommendation, and check the fit against the bait you are using.
• For our dropper-loop setup, leave about three feet between the hook and weight; for the glow-slider setup, let the sinker rest at the hook.
• Keep 1/4 oz, 3/8 oz, and 1/2 oz sliders available so you can adjust your presentation rather than relying on one weight all day.
• You can use the Aki Twist Hook for rockfish but it's expensive for generally smaller fish.  Use a Mustad 92677 Beak Hook instead.

Squid-Rig Questions, Answered

What size Aki Twist should I use for a whole squid?
Our starting recommendation is 7/0 for a full-size, uncut squid, following Brandon Hayward's advice. Check the hook against the actual bait before rigging.

Can I fish these hooks on a dropper loop?
Yes. Thread the hook through the squid two or three times. We like the hook about three feet from the weight on this setup.

What species do you use them for?
Our featured squid presentations target white seabass and yellowtail in Southern California saltwater.

How many hooks come in a pack?
Pack quantities range from three to eight hooks depending on size. Use the size table above to check the quantity and SKU for your selection.

Seaguar Blue Label Fluorocarbon Leader puts abrasion resistance, knot strength and a low-visibility connection between your main line and your bait or lure. Made from 100% Seaguar fluorocarbon with proprietary Double Structure Technology, this 25-yard leader spool covers everything from light freshwater presentations to heavier saltwater bait fishing.

When a fish rubs your leader across structure or makes a sudden run beside the boat, the final stretch of line matters. Blue Label is designed for impact strength and abrasion resistance without giving up the presentation benefits of fluorocarbon. Keep the appropriate test in your tackle bag, tie on a fresh section, and spend less time second-guessing the business end of your rig.

A Less Conspicuous Connection Around Structure

Choose Blue Label when you want a fluorocarbon leader for clear water, pressured fish or fishing near abrasive cover. Its low underwater visibility is useful when presentation matters, while the range of line tests lets you balance bait movement against the demands of the fish and structure. Fluorocarbon is not bite-proof, and a heavier leader is not a substitute for checking damage after every hard encounter.

Match the Leader to the Bite

Best for: light-line trout fishing, freshwater finesse presentations, surf fishing, calico bass, and appropriately matched live-bait setups for yellowtail, white seabass and tuna. Choose test by fish size, cover, hook size and drag setting rather than species alone.

For finesse fishing, use a lighter leader that suits your tackle and gives small baits room to move. Around rocks, kelp or larger fish, step up when added abrasion allowance matters more than the lightest presentation. The trade-off is straightforward: heavier line adds diameter and can restrict a delicate bait, while lighter line leaves less margin around structure.

What Sets Blue Label Apart

• 100% fluorocarbon made from Seaguar resins.
• Proprietary Double Structure Technology.
• Designed for knot strength, impact strength and abrasion resistance.
• Low underwater visibility for leader applications.
• 25-yard spools in the listed 2–80 lb tests for freshwater and saltwater setups.

Models & Specs

All options below are 25-yard leader spools. Select your pound test above.

Rig It for a Natural Presentation

Use Blue Label as the terminal leader between your main line and hook or lure. For a braid-to-leader setup, use a connection knot suited to the line diameters and your tying experience, then test it firmly before fishing. Adjust leader length to water clarity, cover and whether the knot needs to pass through your guides.

For live-bait fishing, pair a suitable leader test with Owner Mutu Circle Hooks. When a lighter hook better suits a smaller or delicate bait, consider Owner Mutu Light Circle Hooks, choosing hook size and wire strength to match the bait and target fish.

Tackle Express Tips

• Run your fingers along the leader after a fish or contact with rocks and kelp. Retie if you feel rough spots or see damage.
• Wet knots before drawing them down, tighten smoothly, and pull-test both the leader connection and terminal knot.
• Carry more than one test so you can change presentation or abrasion allowance without changing your main line.

Blue Label Questions, Answered

Is this a main-line spool or leader material?
This listing is for 25-yard spools of fluorocarbon leader material, intended for the terminal section of your setup rather than filling an entire reel.

Can I use it in freshwater and saltwater?
Yes. Choose the line test to suit your technique, target fish, cover and tackle, from light freshwater rigs to heavier saltwater applications.

Should I always use the lightest test available?
No. A lighter leader can help a delicate presentation, but structure, larger fish and higher drag settings may call for heavier line. Match the complete setup and check your knots and leader condition.

Choose your Blue Label leader test and get your next freshwater or saltwater setup ready with Tackle Express.

The standard SoCal surface iron

The Tady 45 Surface Iron is the iron most Southern California anglers tie on first when yellowtail are feeding on top. At about 3 oz and 6¼ inches, it's the longest Tady surface iron and sits in the middle of the lineup for weight: heavy enough to cast well, light enough to stay in the upper water column. On a steady wind it tracks straight and swims with a tight side-to-side kick.

Why anglers reach for the Tady 45

• Proven swimming action: Kicks side to side on a straight, steady retrieve. No rod work needed.
• Long-casting size: About 3 oz and 6¼ inches, easy to work on an 8'–9' jig stick.
• Treble hook: The traditional surface-iron setup. The Chrome Blue Single Tuna Hook color comes with a single hook.
• Color range: The widest color selection of any Tady iron we carry, from natural sardine patterns to crackle, chrome and holographic finishes.

How to fish the Tady 45

Cast past feeding fish or working birds, wait a couple of seconds, then wind at a steady medium-fast speed in high gear with the rod tip pointed down. Don't pump the rod; the iron makes its own action. If fish follow without biting, speed up before you slow down. Every iron swims a little differently, so if one isn't getting bit while fish are around, tie on another.

• Straight burn: Steady wind, rod tip down, no pauses.
• Burn and drop: After 15–20 cranks, drop the rod tip and let the iron flutter for a few seconds, then wind again. Most strikes come on the first cranks after the drop.
• Bird-working: Cast beyond diving birds and retrieve through the bait.

Best for

• Species: Yellowtail, bonito, barracuda, calico bass, tuna and white seabass.
• Forage: Sardines, anchovies and similar-size baitfish.
• Conditions: Light to moderate wind with fish feeding near the surface.
• Gear: 8'–9' jig stick with a high-gear conventional reel; 65 lb braid with a 3–6 foot top shot of 30–40 lb monofilament, or straight 30–40 lb mono.

Specifications

• Brand: Tady Lures
• Model: Tady 45
• Type: Surface iron jig
• Weight: Approximately 2.9–3 oz (varies slightly by finish)
• Length: 6¼ in.
• Hook: Treble (single tuna hook on colors labeled Single Tuna Hook)

Choose your color

Start with Blue White, Mint or Mint White. Use Scrambled Egg when fish are on sardines or in greener water, and a mackerel pattern when the bait is large. Pricing and availability vary by finish and are shown with each color option.

Compare other Tady irons

• Tady 4/0 Sr. Light: about half an ounce heavier and longer, for casting into wind or matching bigger bait.
• Tady 4/0 Light: a smaller, lighter surface iron with a single fixed hook for calm water and 30–40 lb line.
• Fish holding 15–30 feet down? Switch to a yo-yo iron such as the Tady AA.
• Shop all Tady irons

Full technique guide: How to Fish the Tady 45 for SoCal Yellowtail.

Frequently asked questions

How much does the Tady 45 weigh?

About 2.9 to 3 oz depending on the finish, with a 6¼-inch body.

Does the Tady 45 come with a treble or single hook?

The standard Tady 45 comes with a treble hook. Colors labeled Single Tuna Hook come with a single hook.

What line should I use?

Use 65 lb braid with a 3–6 foot top shot of 30–40 lb monofilament, or straight 30–40 lb mono. A 30–40 lb fluorocarbon leader also works.

How fast should I retrieve it?

Start medium-fast in high gear with the rod tip down and keep the speed up through the whole retrieve. A slow iron gets followed instead of eaten.

Should I choose the Tady 45 or the 4/0 Sr. Light?

Choose the 45 for most surface fishing on sardine-size bait in light to moderate wind. Choose the 4/0 Sr. Light when you need more casting weight or a bigger profile.

The Leader That Fights Back

When finicky tuna and billfish are refusing everything else, the Aftco Saiko Pro Fluorocarbon Leader Line is the edge serious anglers reach for. Made from a 100% custom formula fluorocarbon manufactured in Japan, Saiko Pro is engineered for real-world performance — not just lab numbers. It's supple enough to tie clean knots, hard enough to resist the roughest structure, and strong enough to hold when it matters most.

Built for the Talica Series — and Every Big-Game Setup

Saiko Pro delivers industry-leading tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and break energy ratings across the full range from 12lb to 300lb test. Whether you're rigging up for yellowfin, white seabass, or blue marlin, there's a Saiko Pro size built for the job. The 12–80lb range is available in both Clear and Pink; 100–300lb is available in Clear.

Why Leader Material Actually Matters

Most fluorocarbon weakens after contact with structure, teeth, or gill plates. Saiko Pro is up to 20% stronger after abrasion than leading competitors — a critical difference when you're fighting a fish that's already tested your gear. The knot and crimp strength is unmatched, and the AFTCO SecureSpool™ system keeps your leader organized and tangle-free between trips.

Clear vs. Pink — Which to Choose

Clear is the go-to for most conditions — low visibility, high clarity water, and pressured fish. Pink shines in cloudy or stained water where it can actually reduce visibility at depth. Many offshore anglers keep both on hand and match to conditions.

The Right Pick If...

• You're targeting tuna, billfish, or inshore species that leader-shy
• You need a leader that holds up to structure, teeth, and repeated use
• You want a premium Japan-made fluorocarbon with proven offshore credentials
• You're rigging with crimps or tying direct — Saiko Pro handles both

Best Fishing Techniques

• Chunking and live bait for tuna and billfish
• Slow-pitch and vertical jigging with fluorocarbon top shots
• Inshore live bait rigs for white seabass and yellowtail
• Kite fishing and flat-line trolling leaders
• Crimped big-game rigs for 100lb+ applications

Best Conditions

• Clear to moderately stained water (use Pink in cloudy conditions)
• Offshore blue water and nearshore kelp/structure
• Any situation where fish are leader-shy or biting short

Best For

• Species: Bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, white seabass, yellowtail, billfish, marlin, wahoo
• Techniques: Live bait, chunking, jigging, trolling, kite fishing, crimped big-game rigs
• Use Cases: Offshore leader material, inshore top shots, fluorocarbon shock leaders

Key Features

• 100% custom formula fluorocarbon — made in Japan
• Up to 20% stronger after abrasion than leading competitors
• Industry-leading tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and break energy ratings
• Supple finish for easy knot tying; hard outer shell for maximum abrasion resistance
• AFTCO SecureSpool™ for tangle-free leader storage
• Available in Clear (12–300lb) and Pink (12–80lb)
• Proven on tuna, billfish, and inshore species worldwide

Models & Specs

Tackle Express Tips

• Match your leader to your main line: For braid-to-fluoro connections, use an FG knot or PR bobbin knot for maximum strength and a slim profile through the guides.
• Go heavier in structure: When fishing near kelp, rocks, or the boat hull, bump up one or two line classes — the abrasion resistance will pay off.
• Pink in the chop: On overcast days or in green water, the pink color diffuses at depth and can actually be less visible to fish than clear. Don't overlook it.

FAQ

What's the difference between the Clear and Pink versions?
Both are the same custom fluorocarbon formula. Pink is designed for cloudy or stained water conditions where it becomes less visible at depth. Clear is the standard choice for most offshore and inshore applications.

Can I use Saiko Pro with crimps?
Yes — AFTCO specifically engineered Saiko Pro for both knotted and crimped applications. The knot and crimp strength is one of its standout features, making it ideal for big-game rigs in the 100–300lb range.

Is Saiko Pro suitable for inshore fishing?
Absolutely. While it's built for offshore performance, the 12–30lb range is excellent for white seabass, yellowtail, and other inshore species that are leader-shy in clear water.

Custom-Crafted Deep-Water Performance

The JRI Custom Lures JRI-66 Yo-Yo Iron Jigs deliver hand-crafted quality and proven deep-water performance for serious vertical jigging. Built with meticulous attention to detail and premium components, these custom yo-yo irons provide the perfect combination of weight, action, and durability for targeting yellowtail, calico bass, white seabass, and other gamefish holding in deep water. The JRI-66 represents JRI Custom Lures' commitment to creating specialized tools for vertical jigging success.

Premium Design and Construction

• Hand-Crafted Quality: Each 100% brass jig is individually made with attention to detail that ensures consistent performance
• JRI-66 Profile: Proven shape and weight for effective yo-yo retrieve and vertical jigging
• Heavy Yo-Yo: Gets down to deep-feeding fish quickly and maintains proper action in current
• Premium Components: Quality hooks and hardware built to handle hard-fighting gamefish
• Durable Finish: High-quality plating provides maximum flash and withstands deep-water punishment
• Optimized Balance: Precisely weighted for ideal vertical presentation and yo-yo action

Deep-Water Yo-Yo Technique

The JRI-66 excels with the classic deep-water yo-yo retrieve. Drop the iron down to the desired depth or all the way to the bottom, then retrieve with a quick, steady winding pace that creates an erratic swimming motion. The proven weight and profile get down fast, cut through current, and maintain proper action even in deep water. The balanced design creates the darting, flashing action that triggers reaction strikes from yellowtail, calico bass, white seabass, and other gamefish holding deep.

Built for Deep-Water Success

Whether you're targeting deep-water yellowtail on offshore banks and high spots, working yo-yo iron for calico bass around kelp and rocks, fishing for white seabass on deep reefs, pursuing rockfish and lingcod on vertical structure, or dropping deep when fish won't come up, the JRI-66 delivers consistent results. The custom-crafted quality ensures reliable performance trip after trip, while the proven design produces strikes from deep-holding gamefish.

JRI Custom Lures Quality

JRI Custom Lures has built a reputation for hand-crafted quality and fish-catching performance among serious West Coast anglers. The JRI-66 Yo-Yo Iron continues this tradition, combining proven yo-yo design with meticulous craftsmanship that produces results on the water. From party boats to private vessels, JRI Custom Lures are trusted by anglers who demand quality and performance from their deep-water tackle.

Experience the custom-crafted quality that deep-water specialists trust. The JRI Custom Lures JRI-66 Yo-Yo Iron isn't just another jig—it's a hand-crafted tool built to help you catch more fish in deep water.

Catch deep-water fish with JRI-66 Yo-Yo Iron—where custom quality meets proven yo-yo performance.

The Ahi Ikara Jig is a premium slow-pitch jig engineered to mimic the erratic, fluttering movement of a distressed baitfish, making it irresistible to predatory species. Its offset center balance produces a lifelike pendulum action, while the fluttering descent and subtle movements trigger strikes from even cautious fish.

Built for durability, the Ikara Jig features a rock-hard clear coat, dual BKK Iseama Black Nickel hooks, and a 145lb Dyneema wrapped hook for maximum strength. The Mylar skirt adds flash and realism, while the UV glow belly enhances visibility in deep or dark waters, ensuring effectiveness in a variety of fishing conditions.

Key Features:

• Offset center balance for natural, lifelike action

• Fluttering descent mimics distressed baitfish

• Durable construction with rock-hard clear coat

• Dual premium hooks and Mylar skirt for strength and realism

• UV glow belly for enhanced visibility in deep or low-light conditions

• Versatile use from shallow reefs to deep-water fishing

Available Sizes:

• 21g (2.8") | 28g (3.3") | 40g (3.8") | 60g (4.3") | 80g (4.7") | 130g (5.1") | 170g (5.5")

Perfect For:
Targeting snapper, grouper, and other deep-water predatory species with a jig that delivers both realistic action and durable performance.