Mustad is one of the oldest and largest hook makers in the world. O. Mustad & Son traces its roots to 1832 in Norway, began industrial hook production in 1877 and is still based in Gjøvik, Norway. For deep dropping, Mustad’s key product is the Demon Perfect inline circle hook, made in three wire strengths up to size 16/0, plus a range of stainless steel swivels, snaps and clips.
This review covers the Demon Perfect circle hooks, Mustad’s offshore swivels and snaps, and what is new for 2026.
Mustad at a glance
Demon Perfect inline circle hooks
The Demon Perfect is Mustad’s inline (non-offset) circle hook, with a ringed eye and an Opti-Angle needle point using Mustad’s UltraPoint technology. The point is angled so the hook rolls into the corner of the mouth as the line comes tight; you set it with a firm, steady pull rather than a hard strike. Mustad lists deep dropping for swordfish among its uses, along with live bait for tarpon and bridled baits for marlin.
Which one for deep dropping? The 3X Strong 39950NP is the natural choice for heavy deep drop rigs and swordfish, because the thick wire won’t open under a long electric-reel fight. The 2X Strong 39931NP has a slightly longer shank, which some anglers prefer for rigging cut baits. The 1X Fine 39951NP is best kept for live bait on lighter tackle.
Swivels, snaps and clips
Latest updates 2025–2026
- For the 2026 season Mustad is promoting its Hoodlum heavy-duty hooks in large, offshore-sized profiles, plus new split-ring pliers, braid scissors and rigging tools.
- The Demon Perfect circle hooks remain Mustad’s main deep drop and big-game circle hooks; the 2X Strong 39931NP was listed as out of stock on Mustad’s US store in October 2026.
Key features
- Three wire strengths: 1X Fine, 2X Strong and 3X Strong Demon Perfect circles.
- Sizes to 16/0: large enough for swordfish and the biggest deep drop baits.
- Inline design: non-offset circle hooks for tournaments and regulated fisheries.
- Stainless swivels: ball bearing swivels to stop line twist on electric retrieves.
Pros and cons
Who it’s for
Where to buy
Mustad sells direct at mustad-fishing.com and through most US tackle shops, including Scheels and Public Lands.
Verdict
Mustad’s Demon Perfect circle hooks cover every deep drop job, from light live bait to 16/0 swordfish rigs, and the 3X Strong version is one of the best-known heavy circle hooks for deep dropping. Add Mustad’s stainless ball bearing swivels and you can build a complete rig from one brand.
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Specs and prices are compiled from manufacturer and dealer listings in October 2026 and can change. Check current fishing regulations before choosing hooks. Spotted an error? Contact us.