Garren WoodFishing Hook Reference
The Mustad 3189 A represents the classic Carlisle pattern optimized for squid fishing, featuring an extraordinarily long shank that allows the hook to be threaded through the entire body of a squid bait while keeping the point exposed. This Norwegian-made specimen from the 1960s showcases Mustad’s ‘Key Brand’ packaging with the distinctive blue label and decorative border V.
The extra-heavy wire construction and nickel plating were specifically chosen for saltwater durability, while the superior point provides reliable penetration on tough-mouthed species. The straight ringed eye accommodates heavy monofilament or wire leaders necessary for toothy predators P.
This particular example represents Mustad’s pre-modernization era when they still prominently featured the Oslo address and traditional Key Brand logo, making it a desirable piece for collectors interested in vintage Norwegian tackle manufacturing I.
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The superior point design features a nearly straight inner taper that provides excellent penetration while maintaining strength at the point. The extra-heavy wire gauge was essential for handling the leverage created by the extremely long shank when fighting large fish. The nickel plating offered superior corrosion resistance compared to bronzed finishes, crucial for saltwater applications where the hook might remain in the bait for extended periods during trolling or bottom fishing P.
Grid-derived from photograph (1/10" grid)
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O. Mustad & Sön was founded in 1832 by Ole Mustad in Gjøvik, Norway, growing from a small blacksmith shop into the world’s largest hook manufacturer. By the 1960s, when this hook was produced, Mustad had established themselves as the dominant global supplier of fishing hooks, with their Oslo headquarters coordinating worldwide distribution. The company’s success was built on mechanized production methods and closely guarded manufacturing secrets, allowing them to produce consistent, high-quality hooks at industrial scale while maintaining the craftsmanship traditions of Norwegian metalworking.
The 3189 series was part of Mustad’s specialized saltwater bait hook lineup, developed during the post-World War II boom in recreational saltwater fishing. The Carlisle pattern itself dates to the 19th century, named after the English city, but Mustad’s interpretation emphasized the extreme shank length specifically for squid fishing applications. The ‘A’ designation in the model code indicated the superior point configuration, distinguishing it from other point styles available in the same series. This series remained in production through the 1970s before being superseded by more modern designs with improved metallurgy.
The 'Key Brand' logo with decorative key symbol and 'Oslo - Norway' address indicates pre-1970s production before Mustad modernized their branding and relocated primary operations. The blue label design with star border and letterpress-style printing is characteristic of 1960s packaging. No barcode present confirms pre-1974 dating.
Mustad's Oslo factory during this period operated under such secrecy that employees were required to sign confidentiality agreements about their hook-making machinery. The company even went so far as to install frosted windows to prevent competitors from observing their automated production lines. This paranoia about industrial espionage was well-founded—Mustad's mechanical advantage allowed them to produce hooks at a fraction of the cost of traditional hand-forged methods while maintaining superior quality control.
The Carlisle pattern originated in 19th-century England, named after the border city of Carlisle. Early versions were hand-forged by British makers like Allcock and Hutchinson. Mustad’s mechanized interpretation maintained the essential geometry while standardizing the proportions and adding their superior point technology. The pattern influenced later long-shank designs across the industry, though few manufacturers matched Mustad’s extreme shank-to-gap ratio in the 3189 series.
| Silhouette | Hook Model | Match | Analysis | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
3188 A No. 8/0 — Mustad-Squid Carlisle Hooks | 87% | Compare | |
|
3576D No. 5 — Mustad Bridgeport Snapper | 85% | Compare | |
| 3576 No. 2 — Mustad 3576 | 83% | Compare | ||
|
31868 No. 8 — Mustad-Carlisle Hooks | 80% | Compare | |
|
31867 No. 6/0 — Carlisle Hook | 78% | Compare |
| Silhouette | Hook Model | Match | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|
|
3298 No. 7 — Mustad-Chestertown Hooks | 97% | Compare |
|
7834 No. 4/0 — Mustad 7834 | 97% | Compare |
|
|
3188 A No. 8/0 — Mustad-Squid Carlisle Hooks | 96% | Compare |
|
3295 No. 11 — Chestertown | 96% | Compare |
|
|
3295 A No. 8 — Mustad-Chestertown Hooks | 96% | Compare |
Specifically designed for saltwater bait fishing with whole squid or long strip baits. The exceptionally long shank allows the hook to be threaded through the entire body of a squid while keeping the point clear for effective hooksets. Ideal for species like bluefish, striped bass, and small sharks where the extended shank prevents fish with sharp teeth from reaching the leader P.
Trolling with natural baits where straight profile prevents bait spinning, large baitfish rigging
Not typically used for fly tying
| Hook | Match Quality | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mustad 3191 | Very Good | Direct descendant with bronzed finish instead of nickel |
| Mustad 34007 O'Shaughnessy | Moderate | Similar size range and strength but lacks the extreme Carlisle shank length |
Solid collectability driven by the specialized squid fishing application and classic Key Brand packaging, though production volume limits rarity.
Positive factors include the specialized application for squid fishing, which creates interest among saltwater fishing historians, and the attractive Key Brand packaging from Mustad’s traditional Norwegian period. The extra-long Carlisle pattern has strong recognition among collectors familiar with vintage bait fishing tackle.
Limiting factors include the relatively large production run typical of Mustad’s industrial-scale manufacturing and the fact that similar patterns remained available from Mustad for decades, reducing scarcity premium. The utilitarian nature of the design, while functionally excellent, lacks the aesthetic appeal of more ornate fly hooks.
Traditional cardboard box with blue paper label featuring decorative star border. Label text reads 'Key Brand O. MUSTAD & SÖN Manufacturers OSLO - NORWAY Qual. 3189 A Superior Mustad-Carlisle Squid Hooks Ringed Nickelplated Ex. strong Made in Norway' with '100 No. 5/0' size designation. Key logo appears in left corner. Label shows purple size markings '5/0' handwritten or stamped over the original size field.
Values driven primarily by packaging condition and completeness. Full 100-count boxes in excellent condition command premium pricing among saltwater tackle collectors.
Vintage tackle shows, specialized saltwater fishing forums, occasionally on eBay in mixed Mustad lots
Store in a cool, dry environment to preserve the nickel plating and prevent corrosion of the heavy wire. The original cardboard packaging adds significant collector value—keep hooks on the original label rather than transferring to modern storage. Avoid contact with dissimilar metals to prevent galvanic corrosion. The blue paper label is susceptible to fading in direct sunlight, so store away from UV exposure. Handle minimally to preserve the bright finish, as nickel plating can show wear marks from repeated handling.
The ‘5/0’ size designation appears to be hand-stamped or written in purple ink over the original printed size field on the label. This suggests either a size correction during packaging or a dealer’s inventory marking system. The style and color of the marking is consistent with period rubber stamps used in tackle shops for inventory management, rather than factory marking.
| P | Photographically verified — Directly observable in the photograph(s) on this page. |
| V | Verified by documentation — Confirmed by manufacturer catalog, spec sheet, or published reference. |
| I | Inferred — A logical deduction from observable or documented evidence, not directly stated. |
| E | Estimated — An approximation based on visual comparison, proportional analysis, or limited data. |
| S | Speculative — A reasoned hypothesis that cannot be confirmed from available evidence. |
Claims with no notation are confirmed by multiple independent sources. All photographs on garrenwood.com are taken on a measurement grid where each square equals 1/10 inch (0.1″ / 2.54 mm).
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