Brief description

A fishing hook is a curved point designed to catch fish by piercing the mouth and holding under tension.

Use / Function

• Capture: Secures fish to a line after a strike.
• Selectivity: Hook size helps target species and reduce bycatch.
• Versatility: Works from shore, boats, or under ice.

Operating principle

The point penetrates soft tissue, and the curved shank rotates under pull to set the hook. A barb or inward angle resists escape while tension is maintained.

How to create it

1. Shape the blank: Carve Bone or Wood, or forge Iron into a curved form.
2. Cut the point: File a sharp tip and add a small barb or inward notch.
3. Form the eye: Drill or carve a hole for line attachment.
4. Seal and smooth: Use Resin to seal wood or bone and reduce water absorption.

Materials needed

• Essential: Bone, wood, or iron for the hook body.
• Tools: Knife, File, awl, small hammer.
• Substitutes: Thorns or sharpened splinters for emergency hooks.

Variants and improvements

• Gorge hook: Straight toggle that turns sideways in the fish.
• Barbless hook: Easier release and less damage to fish.
• Double hook: Two points for larger bait.

Limits and risks

• Breakage: Thin points can snap on large fish.
• Injury: Hooks can puncture hands during baiting.
• Corrosion: Metal hooks rust without drying and oiling.