Hook size isn't complicated, but terminology can be confusing

The larger the nunber, the smaller the hook.

Understanding the size of a fish hook isn’t as simple and obvious as it seems.

Well, it really is pretty simple if you understand the terminology and rules. There are many different sizes and shapes, so it is important to get it right when ordering hooks or having someone pick up a package for you at the bait store.

My friend T.J. Stallings at Diachi Hooks says anglers often are confused over hook size. He recently wrote about hooks in his blog.

T.J. wrote: “The angler on the phone says, “Yeah, I need size fours for my Shad Assassins”. 

“So you really need ‘four-ought”, right?” I ask. “Uh, yeah.” 

Either this person is too tired to say, “Ought” or he’s clueless. There is one heck of a difference between what he said and what he needed.

To that end, let us review how hook sizes work.

Regarding sizes below one-ought, (1/0) the larger the number, the smaller the hook. The opposite is true above size 1/0. The photo really simplifies things.

Circle hooks are another issue. Hook manufacturers will never agree on circle hook sizing. So forget the sizing. That’s right. Throw the numbers out the window. 

T.J. advises to look at the gap between point and the shank. Will it fit the lip of the fish your are fishing for? Will it allow room for the bait you are using? Then you may be looking at the right size for you.

Tip: put the card from your hook package in your tackle box. Now drop the the hooks on top of the card. When you get low, pull the card and take it with you to your favorite tackle retailer. That’s much better than guessing!

(T.J.’s blog can be found at: tjstallings.wordpress.com)

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PATOKA TRIATHLON -- Registration is underway for the Patoka Lake Triathlon taking place at Patoka Lake beach Aug. 24.

Participants in the triathlon will swim 500 yards in the lake,  bike 12.8 miles along paved roads within the property, and run 5K along groomed gravel roads and a paved bike trail. 

All proceeds from this event will go to support Patoka’s non-releasable raptors; a red-tailed hawk and eastern screech owl.  It also may save the life of a bald eagle by acquiring a non-releasable eagle for Patoka’s raptor education program.

To register or for more information contact the office at Patoka Lake.