Just to muddy things up further....taken fromFWC's FAQ page <P align=left>Are offset circle hooks allowed? <P align=left>Gulf of Mexico federal waters
- <P align=left><LI>? Yes, offset circle hooks are allowed in Gulf of Mexico federal waters. The definition of a circle hook indicates the point is turned perpendicularly back to the shank of the hook, but does not preclude an offset angle. </LI>
<P align=left><LI>? The offset hook indicates the angle of sideways bending of the end of the hook in relation to the hook shank. </LI>
<P align=left><LI>? While offset hooks are allowed in federal waters, some research has indicated the greater the degree of offset, the greater the likelihood of injuring a hooked fish. Therefore, their use is discouraged. </LI>
<DIR><P align=left>State waters </DIR>
- <P align=left><LI>? Offset circle hooks are allowed in federal waters when fishing for reef fish. On June 1, 2008, <U>Florida </U>will not allow offset circle hooks to be used when fishing for reef fish in state waters. </LI>
<P align=left><LI>? For other states, check with the state fishery management agency whose waters you are fishing in to determine if similar measures apply. </LI>