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Entry 954Filed under Breeding

How to Determine Fish Hook Size: A Practical Guide

A No. 6 is larger than a No. 10 on the common numbered scale. Learn how to choose a hook by bait, target fish, style and the maker’s dimensions.
3-minute read By Animalso Team
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On the common plain-number scale, a No. 6 hook is larger than a No. 10: the higher the number, the smaller the hook. Choose a hook that fits the bait and can enter the target fish’s mouth while leaving enough hook to hold securely. Because size labels do not specify universal dimensions, use a maker’s chart when the hook’s actual gap or length matters.

How do fish hook size numbers work?

For hooks labeled with plain numbers, sizing runs in reverse: a No. 20 is smaller than a No. 6. The Missouri Department of Conservation explains this convention in An Introduction to Fishing. It applies to the ordinary numbered scale; do not assume it explains every label.

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Aught sizes use labels such as 1/0. Treat those as a separate notation and consult the relevant hook maker’s chart or guidance for the specific style. A number by itself is not a complete physical specification, and labels are not a universal cross-brand measurement system.

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How do you choose a hook size?

  1. Start with bait and target fish. The hook should fit the bait and be small enough to enter the fish’s mouth, but large enough to hold securely. The Missouri Department of Conservation describes this as the basic fit to aim for.
  2. Consider the fishing method and hook style. Shape and shank design affect how a hook suits a particular use; size alone does not settle the choice.
  3. Use species recommendations as starting points. The introductory ranges below are examples, not guarantees for every bait, fish, location, or method.
  4. Check dimensions for the exact model if fit is critical. Compare the manufacturer’s published gap and length, where available, rather than translating a size label between brands.

What size ranges do introductory guides suggest?

The Missouri Department of Conservation gives these practical examples in An Introduction to Fishing. Its 2024 Discover Nature — Fishing Instructor Guide also confirms the direction of the numbering scale and the examples. These are general suggestions, not a comprehensive chart.

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Use described by the guide Suggested size range How to interpret it
Natural or live bait 6–10 An assortment in this range is suggested; choose based on the bait and target fish.
Catfish or other large fish 2–6 A general starting range, not a rule for every species or setup.
Trout 14–20 A general starting range; the right size still depends on bait and conditions.
Bluegill, long-shank Aberdeen 10–14 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department gives this as an option in its 2013 fishing booklet, not a universal prescription.

How does hook style affect size choice?

Hook style changes the shape and function of the hook, so choose a pattern suited to the bait and method as well as the target fish.

  • Aberdeen: The Missouri Department of Conservation describes this style as having a long shank and wide gap. Texas Parks and Wildlife’s 2013 booklet gives a long-shank Aberdeen in sizes 10–14 as an option for bluegill.
  • Bait-holder: Barbs on the shank help retain worms, according to the Missouri guide.
  • Inline circle: Mustad describes its Inline Circle Hook as intended for bait. The manufacturer says its curved design is intended to move toward the corner of the fish’s mouth or lip, and describes setting it by tightening the line rather than using a sharp strike. These are statements about that specific product, not every circle hook.

What do hook gap and length tell you?

The gap is the distance between the point and the shank, as defined in the Missouri Department of Conservation’s 2024 instructor guide. Gap and length give more useful physical information than a size label alone when you need to compare a particular model. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ chart caption says, “Hook Sizes Are Determined Mainly by the Width of the Bend.” Its species recommendations are general guidance, not a cross-brand dimensional standard.

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For example, Mustad publishes the following measurements for its Inline Circle Hook, product 39944. Each row describes that model only; do not use it to convert sizes from another maker or hook pattern.

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Mustad Inline Circle Hook size Gap (mm) Length (mm)
4 6.9 13.9
2 8.0 16.2
1 8.7 17.4
1/0 9.6 19.1
2/0 10.4 20.9
3/0 11.5 23.0
4/0 12.3 25.1
5/0 13.7 27.3
6/0 15.1 30.1
7/0 16.7 33.3
8/0 18.4 36.9
9/0 20.6 41.1
10/0 23.0 45.7
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What should you check before fishing?

  • Confirm whether the label uses plain numbers or aught notation, and interpret it using the appropriate guidance.
  • Match the hook’s size and style to both the bait and target fish; treat general species ranges as starting points.
  • Consult the current manufacturer chart for the exact model when physical dimensions matter.
  • Check current local rules for regulated fishing situations. General sizing guidance does not establish jurisdiction-specific legal requirements.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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