i need to make a quick repair and dont want to order just a few hookkeepers. what size wire(malin, and i have some on hand) will work to make a hookkeeper in the style like swampland carries? i plan on ordering some, but need to make one quick. will the Malin wire hold up?

John,
Not sure if this is what you are looking for but below are a two post of hook keeper I posted on the photo page a year or so back using a jigging spoon wire.
You can also use a spinner bait wire, 0.35 size wire works the best.
If you have any question let me know.

[WWW.rodbuilding.org]
[WWW.rodbuilding.org]

Lynn Williams

You can also use a single foot wire fly guide.

I've never had a shark chew threw Malin 170 or 220 pound test single strand wire. Rust has never been an issue on the leaders. If you can shape the wire, I don't think that durability will ever be an issue.

You can get the Spinner Bait wire from Jann's Netcraft. I make all my hook keepers. As Lynn said .035 works best.

John,
After getting your .035 wire - figure how long you need for the hook keeper.
Then, use a blunt chisel and hammer to flatten the wire at the necessary points, before bending or cutting to length.
Then, bend the wire, and finally cut the wire at the end of the flattened portion.
You will have a hook holder ready to go - with a nice flat end, that will nicely fit the blank.

Take care
Roger

John - I've been using American Fishing Wire for some time - stainless steel - Brown (I don't like silver hook keepers) 240 lb test - #15 - .034 diameter. Comes in a 30 ft section. I hand bend 2 styles - Z bend or drop shot.

You can drop down as low as .030 and still make effective hook keepers in this style.

It also happens to be the preferred size for salmon spinners so I have a lot on hand.

Terry

thanks for all the responses and suggestions.