Sizes of Fishing Hooks

The fishing hook size is something the angler has to be aware of before making a purchase. There are no standards for determining their dimensions. In the US, the smallest is number 32. The biggest is 19/0.

How Hooks are Measured

The US size 32 is so small you can barely hold it between your fingers. As the number goes down, the hook gets bigger. When the number 1 is reached, zeroes or “aughts” are added. After number one, 1/0 (pronounced “one aught”) comes next. This is followed by the bigger 2/0.

This goes on until 19/0. A chart usually goes like this (from smallest to biggest): 32, 30, 28, 26, 24, 22, 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, 11, 10, 8, 6, 4, 2, 1, 1/0, 2/0, 3/0, 4/0, 5/0, 6/0, 7/0, 8/0, 9/0, 10/0, 11/0, 12/0, 13/0, 14/0, 15/0, 16/0, 17/0, 18/0, and 19/0.
All the fishing hook sizes have long, regular or short shank versions. The shank is the section between the bend and the eye.

Hook Variants and Types

Aside from size, the type is very important too. Of course a smaller fish necessitates using a small hook. The fish species, fishing structure, type of bait and line size all play a factor. Some of the most popular types used are the following.

Aberdeen

These are usually small and employed in freshwater. However, some use them in saltwater. This is bendable, but will bend back into its original form. Despite this tendency, it is capable of hooking and securing fish well. Those used with jig molds have bends at the shanks.

O’Shaughnessy

This forged hook has a strong bend. It is strong and very thick. This isn’t likely to get bent and is ideal for use in saltwater. This is suitable for typical bottom fishing. Their sizes can be as large as 19/0 or as small as number 3.

Circle

These are best used for catch and release. If utilized correctly, the fish will not be struck in the gut. Some anglers encounter problems with it because there is no hook set. If you are going to set the hook, it will come out of the fish’s mouth.

It will take some time before you find the proper fishing hook sizes. But you will eventually find the right one. It is simply a matter of practice. Again, you also have to experiment with different types before you go fishing.