Hook Size Chart

Recommended hook size by fish, with numbering guide

Hook size by fish
Recommended size
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⚠️ Hook sizing differs by system — freshwater hooks get bigger as the gauge rises, while sea hooks (#) get smaller as the number rises. Even at the same number, actual size differs by maker and hook type, so the table is a general reference.
Reference (fish ↔ size)
Hook types & target fish
Hook typeMain targetNotes
Crucian carp hookCrucian carp, carp (freshwater)Long thin shank, good for paste/worm bait
Chinu (black seabream) hookBlack seabreamShort shank, strong bend, surf & rock
Grease (rabbitfish) hookRabbitfish, halfbeakFine wire for easy inhaling, light rigs
Iseama-type hookRed seabream, parrotfish, big fishWide gap, heavy wire for big mouths
Seigo hookSea bass, rockfishLong and strong, bait or lure
Ajing/rockfish hookRockfish, horse mackerelVery small and light for subtle bites
※ Even within one type, shape and sizing vary by brand and series. Choose by target fish.
⚠️ This calculator is a reference tool based on the standard line/sinker specifications (gauge-to-diameter) established in Japan and also used in Korea, plus publicly available conversion data. Real products vary in diameter, strength (lb) and weight for the same gauge depending on material (nylon, fluorocarbon, PE braid), maker, number of braided strands (4/8) and coating, so results may differ from the product label. PE braid lb ratings in particular vary widely by maker, so treat them as a range and always check the product label for exact values. calcstool.com assumes no liability for tackle choices, equipment damage, accidents or fishing outcomes based on these results.
FAQ
Does a bigger number mean a bigger hook?
It depends on the system. Freshwater hooks get bigger as the gauge rises, while some sea hooks (#) get smaller as the number rises.
What size for crucian carp?
Roughly #2-5 (small), #6-9 (mid), #10-13 (large), varying by maker and hook type.
Same number = same size?
No. The same number differs in real size across hook types and makers, so the chart is a reference.
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Hook Size

Hook sizing is the most confusing part because the systems are not unified. Freshwater hooks get bigger as the gauge rises, while some sea hooks (#) get smaller as the number rises. This chart lists commonly used sizes by fish for reference.

Chinu vs rabbitfish hooks

Chinu (black seabream) hooks have a short shank and strong bend for surf and rock fishing, while rabbitfish hooks use fine wire so the fish inhales them easily. Red seabream are usually fished with wide-gap, heavy Iseama-type hooks.

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