I wonder

[Pennsy Guy]

if it really makes any difference by burying the hook in a sardine-like a butter. For the past 7-8 years I have hooked 'em in the head. For two years I went through the eyes. Since then I start the hook in on the bottom between the gill plates and try to exit the point between the eyes or just behind depending on the particular hook size--I use either a live bait(6/0 or 7/0), same size circle or with a wind on leader, same size circle with swivel attached & they are kirbled; and I've caught my fair share, even dead sticking while flat lining. Trying to bury that hook sometimes almost destroys the bait, especially if they're soft. I even used the 6/0 circle-swivel for Mahi--everyone was hooked in the corner of the mouth. Any thoughts?

[Jigman13]

I use a long threading needle to rig sardines and ling etc to minimize damage to the flesh. Run it up thru the anal vent and out thru the mouth. Set the hook with the point exposed. Using a smaller needle and waxed thread I secure the hook shank to the belly skin. I also sometimes run a piece thru the hook eye to eliminate slippage or turning. One more small piece to sew up the lips. It can be tedious but worth it in my opinion.

It all goes out the window during a hot bite though. At that point the hook is going in the eyes or under the chin and out the top of the head to just get bait in the water faster.