Hook size chart (true scale)
Actual-size hooks from #14 to 5/0 and the right size for each species.
Printable
Standard J hooks, actual size
Drawn in real millimetres: print at 100% and lay a hook on the page. Sizes vary a little by maker.
| Species | Bait or style | Hook size |
|---|---|---|
| Bluegill, perch | Worm, small minnow | #10–#6 |
| Crappie | Minnow | #6–#2 |
| Trout | Bait | #12–#8 |
| Walleye | Jig, minnow | #6–#2 |
| Largemouth bass | Soft plastic | 2/0–5/0 offset |
| Catfish | Cut bait | 2/0–5/0 circle |
| Redfish, snook | Live shrimp | 1/0–3/0 circle |
How this tool works
Small hooks get bigger as the number drops (#14 to #1); then aught sizes grow (1/0 to 5/0). The chart is drawn in millimetres so it prints to scale; sizes vary a little by maker.
FAQ
Which is bigger, a size 2 or a size 2/0 hook?
2/0 is bigger. Numbers without /0 get smaller as they rise; aught (/0) sizes get bigger as they rise.