Hanak Competition 500BL Allround Hooks

An ultra-versatile hook that holds fish like no other, Hanak’s Competition 500BL Allround Hook is reliable and lets you tie a ton of different imitations. One of those hooks that you can use to tie anything from a caddis larva, Czech nymph, attractor pattern, mayfly nymph, or more, the 500BL has a wide gap with just enough shank to whip up various different patterns. A high-quality barbless hook, the 500BL features a medium wire build, extra long up-turned needle point, and hi carbon chemically sharpened construction–all of these combine to provide a super sticky hook with all of the holding power you need. Use this hook all year long, you can count on it whether you’re hitting the first pocket of the day with a Czech pattern or matching mayfly nymphs a few days before the big emergence.

Uses

The Competition 500BL Allround Hooks have many uses. With their medium wire, they make a solid choice for emerger patterns, but they’re an equally good hook when tying Czech nymphs, attractor nymphs, caddis larvae, mayfly nymphs, and more. Made in sizes 8 through 16, this hook allows you to match most medium to small imitations.

Comparisons
While Hanak’s Competition 500BL Allround Hooks have a pretty unique construction that few other hooks share, Tiemco’s TMC 2488H Heavy Nymph Hooks are a good alternative. The 2488H Hooks also have a short shank and wide gap, but they’re made with a little heavier wire and have a bronze finish, not a black nickel finish; also, these hooks lack the up turned point and are not barbless. Another difference between the two is that the TMC 2488H is made in sizes 12-22, so depending on the size of the fly you’re tying, the 500BL or the TMC 2488H may be a better choice. Regardless, both of these hooks are very high-quality and you can rely on them equally.