Assist hooks are used for vertical jigging as well as with lures as a substitue for treble hooks. Assist hooks can also be used for a variety of other fishing applications. An assist hook is a j-hook that is rigged with strong spectra/dyneema/kevlar cord. The cord is secured to the hook and offers a loop of easy attachment to a lure or ring. An assist hook solves a couple of problems. Firstly, an assist hook eliminates jig to leader foul when vertical jigging. A jig that is rigged in a traditional fashion via split ring and treble hook has a common fouling issue when yo-yo or speed jigged. This issue will drive an angler crazy especially in deep water situations. Secondly, fish can't use leverage to throw the hook like they can with a treble hook rigged on a lure. The flexible assist cord eliminates this possiblity and the j-hook provides a solid and secure hookset.