Description
Problue AC-947 Single Reef Hook
Problue reef hook is a curved metal rod attached to a line, which is controlled by and/or mounted to a diver. It is noticeably different than a muck stick, which is a straight rod used for pointing out critters or stabilising a diver for muck diving photography.
A reef hook is a great tool for working with currents, but it’s not something you need to bring on every dive. At some destinations with currents abounding—Galápagos, Cocos, Fiji—you will want to bring a reef hook on every dive. At other destinations, it’s simply not required.
Reef hooks work best under two conditions. First, there needs to be a significant enough current that “hooking in” will result in stability. If there isn’t enough current, or the current is inconsistent, your line won’t be taught and you won’t have the advantage. Second, it needs to be a situation where you want to remain in the same spot for an extended period of time.
Take for example a drift dive in Palau. You are dropped off in the shallows where there isn’t any significant current—no reason to use the hook. As you drop down the wall, the current picks up and zips you along past colourful coral and beautiful reef scenics. There’s plenty of current, but it’s not a situation you want to stop in, as it is impractical and could separate you from the rest of the group.
