I found a crab pattern Id like to tie and it states for 2; 4 and #6 hooks. I thought I might order a pack of #4’s. Only problem is…HOW BIG is a #4 hook? I cant find any dimensions anywhere on the internet.
Anyone have some they can measure the shank length on it for me.
Thanks
Which brand and model hook?
Hook dimensions vary between manufacturer and even between different model numbers from the same manufacturer. I have size 4 saltwater hooks from Gamakatsu, Eagle Claw, Mustad, Partridge, Targus, and Tiemco and none of them are the same size. For example, the Targus #4 is about the same size as a Mustad 3407 #2 but bigger than the Gamakatsu #4.
I was thinking Mustad…thats what I normally buy
Approximate measurements Mustad 3407 from the eye to the point on the shank right above the endpoint on the barb (shank just starts to bend at this point). The bend starts about 1/16 less than these measurements.
#2 13/16"
#4 11/16"
#6 9/16"
Yup Tailing Loop gave you good measurements, just wanted to add that the
Mustad 3407 is the same dimensions as the more widely available Mustad 34007
(3407 = cadmium plated, 34007 = stainless steel)
The 07/007’s have nice dimensions for crabs, I tie stuff like Del Brown’s permit flies (merkin) and Kwan’s on them.
WOW!! Aint nothing tiny about those hooks is there…:lol:
Thanks fellas!!
Just to clarify . . . Mustad had not plated hooks with Cadmium in over 15 years now. The 3407DT is Duratin (polished Tin) and as stated, the 34007 is stainless.
Ther premium version is the new S71SZ-34007 which is a ZSteel hook with a needlepoint.
Please check out http://www.flyanglersonline.com/features/bobboese/bobboese20090810.php
Trying to be certain about hook size is only possible if you already know the hook you are buying is the one you want.
What are you going to use the crabs for? I tie most of my crabs on Mustad 34007 #4 for redfish and drum here in Florida. I don’t go any smaller than those in the salt.