Chinu Hooks

Chinu Hooks

A Chinu fishing hook (often called a Chinu pattern hook) is a short-shank, wide-gape hook that originated in Japan for targeting black porgy (“chinu”). It has become popular in New Zealand because of its strength, solid hook-up rate, and suitability for a wide range of saltwater species.

Key features:

Short shank – keeps the bait compact and close to the bend.

Wide gape – improves hook-up rates, especially with bulky or natural baits.

Beaked or slightly in-turned point – helps prevent the hook from pulling out.

Heavy-gauge wire – strong enough for hard-fighting fish.

black nickel or chemically sharpened for corrosion resistance and penetration.

Popular for:

Snapper

Kahawai

Gurnard

Trevally

Used when:

Because of its shape, a Chinu hook is excellent for straylining and ledger rigs where fish mouth the bait before committing.