What size hook is 3/8 inch from point to shank?

Question

I live in michigan and the regulation on rivers and streams is no more than 3/8 inch from point to shank. I havent ever measured hooks, so I was wondering if anyone knew offhand. I know that size 6 hooks are pretty popular for salmon fishing here, and I assume that they are legal, but I've never checked.

Answer 1

Actually, most states have regulations determining the maximum gap size on a hook.  Hook gap is the measurement from the point to the shank.  It's always important to check the regulations in your state; if you don't that's when you get caught for not knowing when you should.  

Anyway, sz 6 hooks are typically not going to exceed 3/8in.  However, depending on the type/style of hook, the gap size is going to change.  For example, an octopus hook in size 1 is going to have a smaller gap size than a siwash in size 1.  Although it's a little annoying, it's important to take the time to measure the gap size.  I'd rather take the 15 seconds and measure it myself than wait for a game warden to do it for me.....then hand me a ticket shortly thereafter for my ignorance.  

Manufacturers size hooks similarly, but not identical.  So a size 1 gamakatsu isn't going to necessarily match up with a size 1 eagle claw or a size 1 matzuo.  Point is, just check - simple as that.

Answer 2

There aren't usually regulations on the size hooks an angler can use, but you might want to check your local Fish and wild life commission to be sure anyways... Never can tell what kind of new laws they'll come up with.

There is no world or industry standard method of measuring hooks.

But I'll guess at a size 2/0.