Dictionary of Ichthyology  

fish hook = 1) a bent piece of wire with its tip sharpened and often a barb below the tip used to catch fish. Available in many sizes and styles. May be single, double or treble but all these are counted as one hook in angling regulations. Hooks separated by stretches of line are counted as multiple hooks. See hook for more detail.

Greek or Roman bronze fish hooks, British Museum, Photograph by Brian W. Coad.

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