Abstract: The disclosed fishing lure systems have a fishing lure, bead sleeve, and a stop that can be used in combination with a fishing line and hook. The fishing lure has a pliable body and a pre-formed hole. The bead sleeve can be fitted within the pre-formed hole with an interference fit because the pliable body expands to fit around the bead sleeve to hold it in place within the pre-formed hole. The stop is positioned on one side of the fishing lure and bead sleeve to prevent it from sliding down towards the hook or possibly over some portion of the hook. The stop can be positioned spaced apart from the hook on a fishing line so that the distance between the fishing lure and the hook remains at a desirable spacing while in use.

Abstract: EZ Fishhook is a faster and easier way to insert and hold the fishing line within the eyelet hole. The eyelet channel opening from the shaft into the eyelet hole compresses the fishing line while passing through eyelet channel. Once the fishing line is inside the eyelet hole, the fishing line diameter decompresses to the same size of the eyelet hole diameter; thus, the fishing line is held tight within the eyelet. The fishing line, with the fishing line knot, is pulled I through the eyelet hole until the fishing knot is tight against the eyelet. The fishing line knot is held outside the eyelet due to the fishing knot being larger than the eyelet hole. The tight fit between the fishing line diameter and the eyelet hole diameter holds the fishing line knot tight against the eyelet while fishing.

Abstract: A fishing lure includes a jig having a body, a hook, and a blade attached to the body at two attachment points. The hook extends along a longitudinal axis of the body. A fixed wire loop extends from a forward end of the body along the longitudinal axis to directly connect the blade to the body. The blade has an edge near the body, a first attachment hole through the blade near the first edge, a second attachment hole aligned with and spaced near the first attachment hole, and a pair of line attachment holes spaced apart from the second attachment hole. The wire loop is fed directly through both the first and the second attachment holes, and the first edge is outside the wire loop. This arrangement controls the jig body's movement relative to the blade, reducing the likelihood of rollover that could lead to snagging.

Abstract: An apparatus used for maintaining bait or bait fish at a more level attitude when trolling includes a non-stranded wire attached to a hook. A first end of the wire is threaded through an eye of the hook and wrapped around a shank of the hook. A main loop is provided at an opposite second end. The main loop can be modified to include a first upper loop and a second upper loop. The second upper loop is attached to a fishing line and a pin is inserted into a head of the bait fish, through the first upper loop, and through a bottom of a mouth of the bait fish to secure the bait fish to the apparatus. An elastic band maintains the mouth in a closed position. If desired, a single thicker non-stranded wire may be used or an optional trailer hook may be added to any version.

Abstract: An aid for threading at least one fishing line through at least one fish hook, respectively. The aid includes a body, at least one clip, and at least one threader. The at least one clip depends from the body, and is for replaceably holding the at least one fish hook, respectively. The at least one threader is operatively connected to the body, and is for guiding the at least one fishing line through the at least one fish hook, respectively, so as to aid threading the at least one fishing line through the at least one fish hook, respectively.

Abstract: A fishing hook has a head having at least two vertically arranged holes through which a fishing line is inserted. When the fishing line is threaded through both of the vertically disposed holes, the hook is stabilized in a substantially orthogonal posture relative to the fishing line, thus enhancing the likelihood of catching fish, especially with a drop-shot technique. Because the single head is small and compact, it is not exposed when the lure is affixed to the hook, thereby improving the likelihood that fish will be tempted by the lure.

Abstract: A fishing jig with a flexible shank allows a minnow on the fishing jig to swim free. This natural movement of the minnow entices a predator to feed while foraging. Predators not foraging are enticed into a reaction strike with the use of various types of terminal tackle, such as colored beads, blade spinners, turbo spinners and the like. The fish hooks and the jig head can be matched to meet the fishing conditions and type of fish being targeted. For example, a heavier jig head can be used with a smaller fishing hook for fishing smaller fish in deep water.

Abstract: A line connector apparatus for removably engaging a flexible line to an article, the apparatus including a beam with an external surface, the beam also including a flexible line end and an opposing article end. The apparatus has a void disposed partially within the flexible line end and the void is also partially formed from an open channel adjacent to the external surface. The void having a slip fit clearance with the flexible line, wherein the void communicates therethrough the flexible line end and the void receives the flexible line allowing the flexible line to be manually feed therethrough the void. The apparatus includes structure for selectively compressing the flexible line that is positioned within the open channel to change the slip fit clearance to an interference fit and the opposing article end is attached to the article. Operationally, the flexible line is affixed to the article via the beam.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of attaching bait to a fishing rig for trolling. The apparatus may generally include a line defining an attachment means that is configured to lie substantially flush to a bait, and a bait attachment line for affixing the fishing rig to a bait. The apparatus may further include one or more hooks. The apparatus may optionally include weights or one or more extension rigs. The method may include inserting the bait attachment line through a first end of a bait and through the attachment means, then securing the bait attachment line by wrapping it around the first end of the bait. The one or more hooks may be positioned along the length of the bait.

Abstract: A locking clip for securing one or more objects thereon includes a loop portion and a sleeve. The loop portion defines first and second ends interconnected by first and second intermediate segments. The first intermediate segment includes a gap defined therein. The sleeve is disposed about the first and second intermediate segments between the first and second ends of the loop portion. The sleeve is rotatable relative to the loop portion between a closed position, wherein the sleeve extends completely along a length of the gap to inhibit passage of the object(s) therethrough, and an open position, wherein the sleeve extends only partially along the length of the gap to permit passage of the object(s) therethrough. The loop portion and/or the sleeve also includes a feedback feature configured to produce an audible and/or a tactile feedback response when the sleeve is rotated to the closed and/or the open position.

Abstract: A fishing hook assembly includes a hook element including a tie rail, which defines an enlarged line-pass-through area.

Abstract: A quick release locking assembly includes at least one lock conduit having a lock conduit interior, at least one release conduit having a release conduit interior and a lock spring having at least one spring arm communicating with the lock conduit interior of the lock conduit and the release conduit interior of the release conduit.

Abstract: An apparatus provides a fishing rig designed for improved performance in bottom fishing applications such as surf fishing. This fishing rig includes a hoop attached to the top of a sinker. The rig line is attached at its bottom end to the hoop, and a hook-shaped member is attached to the rig line above the hoop. Above the hook-shaped member, one or more fish hooks are attached to the rig line, and a swivel is attached at the top end of the rig line.

Abstract: An improved baited lure has a head section and a tail section so that when press fitted together an interior chamber with scent holes is formed for containing bait or scent and/or a rattle. A fish hook is attached to a leader that runs through holes in the head and tail sections so that, as the lure is moved through water, the two sections are held together. One section may have an air pocket for buoyancy when at rest, and a tether may be connected between the two sections so that, in the event the leader is broken, the lure rises to the surface of the water and, even if separated, both sections are retrievable.

Abstract: A fishers device that enables a hook and hook shaft to maintain a given compound angle with respect to a fishing line. A double eye hook has an upper eye and a lower eye connected by a lever arm. A fishing line can be attached to the upper eye and a tag line passes from the upper eye through the lower eye and the tag line is attached to a weighted member below the hook. The hook angle can be adjusted and once adjusted the fisher's device will maintain the desired angle. The arrangement improves the ability to hook a fish because the fisherman knows the hook is oriented with the hooking end up at all times, improving the ability to hook the fish in the roof of the mouth.

Abstract: An apparatus provides a fishing rig designed for improved performance in bottom fishing applications such as surf fishing. This fishing rig includes a hoop attached to the top of a sinker. The rig line is attached at its bottom end to the hoop, and a hook-shaped member is attached to the rig line above the hoop. Above the hook-shaped member, one or more fish hooks are attached to the rig line, and a swivel is attached at the top end of the rig line.

Abstract: Provided is a long line fishing that prevents a tubular sleeve from separating from the external circumference of a main line no matter how large force may be radially applied from the outside, reduces friction, and makes it possible to quickly and easily connecting a string to a simple connection hook of a swivel. The present invention may be implemented by fitting a plurality of tubular sleeve on a long main line at predetermined positions, disposing clover stoppers at both sides of the tubular sleeves at predetermined positions to prevent the tubular sleeve s from longitudinally moving, and protruding hook from the external circumference by striking the external circumference of the tubular sleeve with a punch through a hole.

Abstract: A fishing hook-threader device is provided for facilitating easy threading of fishing line through the eye of a fishing hook. The device has a needle threader, a hook retention portion and a buoyancy element. A plurality of hooks is hung by the fishing hook eyes along the hook retention portion where the hooks may be stored prior to use. When a user is ready to use a hook, it is separated from the plurality by sliding along the hook retention portion onto an indented hook separation region just prior to the needle threader. The needle threader is a hoop wire that permits fishing line to pass through an interior space and is suitably sized to promote ease of use by users with poor dexterity or low visual acuity. A buoyancy element is further secured to the hook retention portion to prevent the device from sinking if it falls into the water.

Abstract: A fishing lure comprises a hook structure including a hook portion for engaging the mouth flesh of a fish, a shank portion connected to the hook portion, and a line securing portion for securing a line to the hook structure. The line securing portion forms an unsecured loop so that a portion of fishing line is movable into the eye of the loop without threading. The lure also comprises a body structure mounted on the hook structure. The body structure has an anchor notch formed thereon and configured to receiving a portion of a looped fishing line.

Abstract: A fish hook allows quick connection/disconnection to a fishing lure. A loop is formed and a tag portion extends beyond the contact point of the loop. The tag portion is inserted though a ring of a fishing lure. The contact point of the loop is sprung apart as the ring is slid onto the loop. When the ring is past the contact point the loop ‘snaps’ back into contact. In a second embodiment two opposing ‘j’ hooks are aligned forming an eye of the fish hook. A user applies force on the shafts supporting the ‘j’ hooks causing the two ‘j’ hooks to move in opposing directions and exposing the ends of the ‘j’ hooks. An end of one of the ‘j’ hooks is then inserted through a ring of a fishing lure. The ring is slid onto a shaft and the force released on the shafts released.

Abstract: A tool for holding a fishing lure eyelet, or other small structure, with a small aperture while a flexible line is extended through the aperture. Two pivotably mounted and spring-loaded levers have a jaw formed near one end and a handle near the opposite end. Each jaw has a pocket formed in its face. When the jaws are closed, preferably by a spring, the pockets register to hold a lure eyelet. The handles ends can be compressed to open the jaws against the spring. A tapered guide passage extends between the exterior of the jaws and the pockets to guide the line from a flared end to the aperture in the pocket where the guide passage narrows, and another passage guides the line out of the pocket. A blade and anvil on the handle ends can cut the line after a lure is tied.

Abstract: Provided is a long line fishing that prevents a round frame sleeve from separating from the external circumference of a main line no matter how large force may be radially applied from the outside, reduces friction, and makes it possible to quickly and easily connecting a string to a simple connection hook of a swivel. The present invention may be implemented by fitting a plurality of round frame sleeve on a long main line at predetermined positions, disposing clover stoppers at both sides of the round frame sleeves at predetermined positions to prevent the round frame sleeves from longitudinally moving, and protruding hook from the external circumference by striking the external circumference of the round frame sleeve with a punch P through a hole.

Abstract: A fishing lure release apparatus is a quick release system that allows rapid interchanging of fishing lures on a fishing. An closed wire loop eyelet opposite a posterior open end clasp are opposed along a linearly elongated wire form. The posterior open end clasp forms an attachable hook element that is impinged by a spring urged closure. The hook element is inserted into a inner tubular cavity of the closure causing an impingement of the hook opening for securely holding and maintaining a mechanical coupling to anything attached thereto, while at the same time providing easy removal by sliding the closure upward along the body of the wire form.

Abstract: A fishing line release system is disclosed. The fishing line release system includes a fishing line quick release mechanism that may be used in conjunction with a planar device for trolling or may alternatively be used with a down rigger cable and weight when used in down rigger fishing. When used in conjunction with the planar device, the system may be used for directional trolling. The planar device comprises a planar body, the fishing line quick release mechanism attached to the planar body, and a line locking assembly for securing a portion of a fishing line to the planar body. When used in conjunction with a down rigger cable and weight, the quick release mechanism may be used either on the down rigger cable or may be attached to the down rigger weight.

Abstract: A device for fastening emergency equipment to a vessel includes a hydrostatic release mechanism, a tether, and a float-free link. The tether is attached to the hydrostatic release mechanism and provides an attachment point for lashing the emergency equipment to the vessel. The tether may also be threaded through openings in the curved partially tubular body of the float-free link. A breakable bridge is integrally coupled to the body of the float-free link to form a closed loop. The breakable bridge is designed to be the break point when the emergency equipment needs to be freed from a vessel that has sunk below a predetermined depth. When the vessel sinks below the predetermined depth, the hydrostatic release mechanism severs the tether thus freeing the emergency equipment from one point of attachment to the vessel. The bridge is designed to break when the strain on the fastening line, e.g., the painter line, is between a predetermined minimum force and maximum force.

Abstract: A fish lure break away system, having a lure attachment member, a hook section with at least one elongated shank, an eyelet, an eyelet guide, and a least one curved bend terminating in a tip section. The eyelet defines an eyelet gap having a predetermined width. In one embodiment the lure attachment member has a predetermined breaking strength in combination with a selected thickness and flexibility such that the lure attachment member can be squeezed through the eyelet gap and thereby attached to the eyelet. The lure attachment member may be of strength less than that of fishing line so as to break if snagged to release and avoid loss of a lure. The hook section has an inwardly projecting member which may be maneuvered to close or minimize the eyelet gap to retain the lure attachment member.

Abstract: A line fastening device (100), capable of irreversibly attaching to a line, without tying any knots. The device comprises of a line enclosure (104) and an elongated member (102). The elongated member (102) provides a structure to which a line (308) may be wrapped around. The line enclosure (104) is comprised of an interior retaining structure (106) and exterior guard (110). The opening of the line enclosure (112) is defined by the space between the interior retaining structure (106) and exterior guard (110). This opening (112) allows a line (308) to pass inside of the line enclosure (104) without access to either ends of the line. When a line (308), that has been wrapped around the line itself and the elongated member (102), is pulled through the line enclosure's opening (104) and past the end of the retaining structure (108), the line (308) will be unable to exit the line enclosure (104).

Abstract: A fish lure break away system, having a lure attachment member, a hook section with at least one elongated shank, an eyelet, an eyelet guide, and a least one curved bend terminating in a tip section. The eyelet defines an eyelet gap having a predetermined width. In one embodiment the lure attachment member has a predetermined breaking strength in combination with a selected thickness and flexibility such that the lure attachment member can be squeezed through the eyelet gap and thereby attached to the eyelet. The lure attachment member may be of strength less than that of fishing line so as to break if snagged to release and avoid loss of a lure. The hook section has an inwardly projecting member which may be maneuvered to close or minimize the eyelet gap to retain the lure attachment member.

Abstract: A method for securing a flexible line includes winding a first section of a flexible line from a first end to a second end of a helical coil so that the first section of the flexible line is received between a plurality of first volutes of the helical coil. A second section of the flexible line is then extended from the second end of the helical coil back to the first end of the helical coil. A third section of the flexible line is then wound from the first end of the helical coil to the second end of the helical coil so that the third section of the flexible line is received between the plurality of first volutes. A fourth section of the flexible line is passed between a pair of second volutes of a retaining formation extending from the second end of the helical coil.

Abstract: A slip clip line apparatus designed for use with fishing floats and sinkers to aid in their attachment to a fishing line. The slip clip has a slip body which engages the fishing line and allows the slip clip to slide freely along a predetermined length of fishing line. The slip body is a U-shaped apparatus having an open and centrally located line slip which is substantially closed. The slip clip further has a lower insertion body which may be connected to a piece of tubing that in turn may be connected to a float or a sinker.

Abstract: A fishing hook threader and holder includes a threader body and a hook holder projection. A conical shaped opening is formed in a top of the threader body at substantially one end. The entrance opening has a greater perimeter than the exit opening. A line bore is formed through the exit opening and is substantially concentric therewith. A line removal slit is formed through a wall of the line bore. A jig clearance notch is formed adjacent the line bore. In use, a line loop of the fishing hook, a jig hook or fly hook is inserted into the line removal slit, such that the line loop is in contact with the line bore. A fishing line is inserted through the conical shaped opening and the line bore. The fishing hook and fishing line are removed from the fishing hook threader by pulling thereof out of the line removal slit.

Abstract: The invention is a fishhook threading device mounted on the rod of a fishing pole and utilizing opposing diverging funnel-shaped passages in the main body of the device. One passage is for mounting the eyelet of a fishhook therein while a line is threaded through the opposing passage to be guided into the eyelet of the fishhook. After the fish line is threaded through the eyelet, the end thereof can be grasped by the fingers of the fisherman to remove the hook and line from the threading device and allow any desired knot to be tied to permanently attach the fishhook to the fish line.

Abstract: A device for fastening emergency equipment to a vessel includes a hydrostatic release mechanism, a tether, and a float-free link. The tether is attached to the hydrostatic release mechanism and provides an attachment point for lashing the emergency equipment to the vessel. The tether may also be threaded through openings in the curved partially tubular body of the float-free link. A breakable bridge is integrally coupled to the body of the float-free link to form a closed loop. The breakable bridge is designed to be the break point when the emergency equipment needs to be freed from a vessel that has sunk below a predetermined depth. When the vessel sinks below the predetermined depth, the hydrostatic release mechanism severs the tether thus freeing the emergency equipment from one point of attachment to the vessel. The bridge is designed to break when the strain on the fastening line, e.g., the painter line, is between a predetermined minimum force and maximum force.

Abstract: A fish lure break away system, having a lure attachment member, a hook section with at least one elongated shank, an eyelet, an eyelet guide, and a least one curved bend terminating in a tip section. The eyelet defines an eyelet gap having a predetermined width. In one embodiment the lure attachment member has a predetermined breaking strength in combination with a selected thickness and a selected flexibility such that the lure attachment member can be squeezed by a user through the eyelet gap and thereby attached to the eyelet.

Abstract: A leader and fish hook combination has eyes or loops formed at both ends of the leader so that the leader can be attached to the fishing line with either the one eye or the other. The fish hook, or more than one fish hook, has the leader threaded through the eye end of the fish hook. The leader passes through the eye of each hook, but is not tied to it, leaving the hook free to slide along the leader. Fastened one way, the hook is presented outward, and if fastened or tied off the other way, the hook presented inward. In that orientation, the lower eye projects over the hook portion so the rig serves as a weedless hook.

Abstract: A holder for a fish hook is provided. The holder has a generally O- or U-shaped wire body having a first end and a second end. The first end is slightly spaced away from the second end for attachment to a lure body. The second end has a branched terminus with opposing first and second branches. The holder has an undercut that extends into the wire body without severing it. The second end is adapted to receive an eye of the fish hook by placing the eye over the first and second branches in sequence using the undercut in one position to thread the fish hook onto the wire body. Various designs of holders are possible with the common theme being that the branched terminus of the second end is sized to prevent an eye of a fish hook from passing over both the first and second branch simultaneously. The holders may also be part of a fishing lure.

Abstract: A method for securing a flexible line includes winding a first section of a flexible line from a first end to a second end of a helical coil so that the first section of the flexible line is received between a plurality of first volutes of the helical coil. A second section of the flexible line is then extended from the second end of the helical coil back to the first end of the helical coil. A third section of the flexible line is then wound from the first end of the helical coil to the second end of the helical coil so that the third section of the flexible line is received between the plurality of first volutes. A fourth section of the flexible line is passed between a pair of second volutes of a retaining formation extending from the second end of the helical coil.

Abstract: A handheld device is provided for aiding in attaching a fishing line to a fishing hook having an eye. The device includes a holder having a first end and a second end. At least one of the first end and the second end includes an opening through which the hook can be securely coupled. An end of the fishing line is inserted through the eye of the fishing hook to tie a fishing knot. The device can also include a fishing lure extending from at least one of the first end and the second end. The opening can be one of a slit, a groove, a slot, a hole, and a notch.

Abstract: This invention is a fishing device that is used in its preferred embodiment to trap bait between the hook and the line, within a boundary formed between the eyes. It eliminates the need for complicated knots, when using organic or otherwise fragile bait. It also prevents unnecessary damage to the bait during normal fishing activities.

Abstract: A fish-hook (10) including: (a) a shank (12); (b) a bend (14) extending from the shank (12); (c) a point (16) defined by a free end of a bend (14); wherein an end portion (18) of the shank (12) defines a helical formation having at least three spaced volutes (22.1, 22.2, 22.3, 22.4), with a first volute (22.1) closest tod the bend (14) and a final volute (22.4) furthest from the the bend (14).

Abstract: A fishing line release system is disclosed. The fishing line release system includes a fishing line quick release mechanism that may be used in conjunction with a planar device for trolling or may alternatively be used with a down rigger cable and weight when used in down rigger fishing. When used in conjunction with the planar device, the system may be used for directional trolling. The planar device comprises a planar body, the fishing line quick release mechanism attached to the planar body, and a line locking assembly for securing a portion of a fishing line to the planar body. When used in conjunction with a down rigger cable and weight, the quick release mechanism may be used either on the down rigger cable or may be attached to the down rigger weight.

Abstract: The fish hook has an arcuate hook and an elongate shank extending from the arcuate hook. The shank has a linear portion extending from the hook and the end of the shank opposite the hook is formed as a helical coil having an axial center that extends substantially parallel to or in-line with the linear portion of the shank. The diameter of the coil progressively decreases as the coil extends to the end of the shank opposite the hook. A knotted fish line can be looped into the coil which coil has adequate space for the line to pass through. The knotted line is caught up in the coil after it is pulled to secure the fishhook to the fish line. In a similar manner, a helical coil may be manufactured on any fishing tackle to provide easy attachment and removal of the tackle to a knotted fishing line.

Abstract: A quick-connect-disconnect fish hook coupling system is provided. The system uses a fish hook having a solid ball-shaped head and a hollow-bodied coupler that releasably retains the ball-shaped head of the hook. The hook can swing freely while retained.

Abstract: A device for affixing terminal tackle to a fishing line has a body that defines a chamber, an upper orifice, and a lower orifice. A winding member is located within the body and defines a circumferential groove. Terminal tackle is affixed to the winding member. Fishing line passes through the upper and lower orifices. The winding member rotates within the body for displacing a path of the line from the upper to the lower orifice for forcing line into the groove and for wrapping line around the winding member for increasing line/winding member contact area for securing the tackle onto the line. A pinch point may be provided to further secure line within the body. Tactile feedback is provided to alert when the winding member is rotated to a pre-determined rotational position. Anti-backdrive mechanisms are provided to prevent unwanted rotation of the winding member when tension is applied to the line.

Abstract: A multiple hook fishing rig facilitating selective adjustability of hook spacing in order to accommodate bait of different sizes. A fishing rig includes a fishhook connected to a sliding line, with the sliding line being coupled to a primary line via a user positionable tension device. A method of using a fishing rig is also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention is a fishing device that is used in its preferred embodiment to trap bait between the hook and the line, within a boundary formed between the eyes. It eliminates the need for complicated knots, when using organic or otherwise fragile bait. It also prevents unnecessary damage to the bait during normal fishing activities.

Abstract: A bait hook for constructing a stinger rig includes a hook proximal end including a primary leader engaging first ring eye; a hook shank including a shank connecting segment extending distally from the first ring eye and a shank hook segment arching laterally from the shank connecting segment, and a hook distal end; and a second ring eye extending from the hook shank for engaging a trailer leader for connecting the bait hook to a trailer bait hook.

Abstract: An improved fish hook with two eyelets to be used for fishing. A primary eyelet located at the top of the fish hook and a secondary eyelet located at the bottom. The primary eyelet would generally be affixed to a fishing lure or line while the secondary eyelet could have various appendages attached by split ring and or swivels, much like a vehicle with a trailer hitch can connect to various trailers. Attached appendages would consist of but not be limited to metal or synthetic blades commonly referred to as “Willow Leaf”, “Colorado” and “Indiana” forms, additional fishing hooks or hook, fishing line, barbed shafts or shaft and various plastic imitation baits such as crawfish, grubs, worms and minnows.

Abstract: A fishing rig and method of fishing. The fishing rig has a leader with a first and second end, at least one bait hook attached to the leader, and at least one game fish hook attached to the leader. The at least one game fish hook is positioned relative to the at least one bait hook so that a bait attached to the bait hook attracts a game fish to the game fish hook.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fishing hook with a shank portion and at least one hook portion. The hook portion extends from a lower end of the shank portion, which is provided with a hook attachment element. The hook attachment element is adapted to be threaded onto a hook support element attached to fishing tackle. The hook attachment element facilitates free sliding of the fishing hook along the hook support element and the hook attachment element accommodates the hook support element in a substantially parallel relationship to the shank portion. The hook attachment element is a channel formed along the shank portion. This channel is formed within a tube extending along the shank portion, the tube being adapted to accommodate the hook support element within the channel. The tube can extend along the entire length of the shank portion, or at least ¼ of the length of the shank portion. The hook attachment element can also be a number of rings provided to accommodate the hook support element.