Garren WoodFishing Hook Reference
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The Mustad 3816 is a traditional Norwegian saltwater bait hook featuring blind eye construction and marked shank design P. Manufactured by O. Mustad & Son in Gjøvik, Norway, this hook represents mid-20th century industrial fishing tackle designed for heavy-duty applications V.
The size 7/0 specimen shows forged extra-heavy wire construction with a bronzed finish, indicating its intended use for large saltwater species P.
Dating from approximately 1950-1980 based on construction methods and finish, this hook demonstrates the quality manufacturing standards that established Mustad as a global leader in fishing tackle I. The traditional design reflects established saltwater fishing practices of the era.
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The blind eye construction eliminates the potential weak point of a formed loop, instead using a marked shank. This design distributes stress across a broader area, crucial for large saltwater species that generate significant pulling forces.
The forged wire profile increases strength by compressing the metal grain structure while maintaining workability V. The marked ridged shank creates mechanical bait retention, preventing slippage during casting and fish fights. The bronzed finish provides corrosion resistance suitable for saltwater environments while maintaining the hook’s penetrating sharpness.
Physical measurement with calipers
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O. Mustad & Son was founded in 1877 in Gjøvik, Norway, by Ole Mustad, establishing what would become the world’s largest fishing hook manufacturer V. The company built upon Norwegian metalworking traditions, leveraging local expertise in iron and steel processing to create fishing tackle of exceptional quality and consistency.
By the mid-20th century, Mustad had established global distribution networks, becoming synonymous with reliable fishing hooks across international markets. The company’s industrial approach to hook manufacturing, combined with rigorous quality control, made Mustad hooks the standard choice for both commercial and recreational fishing applications worldwide.
The Mustad 3816 represents the company’s traditional saltwater bait hook line, designed for heavy-duty marine applications. This model exemplifies the blind eye construction that was standard for larger saltwater hooks during the mid-20th century, providing maximum strength at the critical eye-shank junction.
The series was likely introduced in the 1940s-1950s as part of Mustad’s expansion into specialized saltwater tackle, responding to growing demand from both commercial and sport fishing markets. The marked shank feature became a signature element of Mustad’s bait-holding hook designs during this period.
Handwritten specimen card suggests mid-20th century documentation period. Bronzed finish and blind eye construction consistent with traditional Mustad bait hook designs from 1950s-1970s era. Lack of modern packaging or barcoding supports vintage classification.
Mustad's blind eye construction was originally developed for commercial fishing applications where maximum strength was critical. The company's Norwegian heritage in metalworking, dating back centuries, provided the technical expertise to create these robust eye designs that could withstand the tremendous forces generated by large ocean fish.
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The Mustad 3816 is designed as a heavy-duty bait hook for saltwater fishing P. The blind eye construction and marked shank indicate this hook was intended for secure bait attachment when targeting larger marine species I. The forged construction and extra-heavy wire gauge make it suitable for big game applications V.
Occasional use in heavy saltwater fly applications requiring extreme strength
Not typically used for fly tying
| Hook | Match Quality | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mustad 92611 Beak Baitholder | Good | Modern equivalent with similar strength characteristics but turned eye |
| Mustad 39960D Big Game | Very Good | Contemporary heavy-duty saltwater hook with comparable wire gauge |
Uncommon vintage Mustad saltwater hook with traditional blind eye construction. Limited collector interest due to utilitarian design.
The Mustad 3816 represents traditional Norwegian hook manufacturing from the mid-20th century. The blind eye construction and marked shank reflect established saltwater fishing practices. While not rare, examples in good condition with original documentation provide modest historical interest for collectors focused on traditional saltwater tackle. The heavy wire gauge and forged construction demonstrate quality manufacturing standards of the era.
Handwritten specimen card with ruled lines. Card shows 'O. Mustad', 'Qol. 3816', and '#7/0' in blue ink. Paper stock appears to be standard index card material with moderate toning.
Individual specimens typically $5-15 depending on condition. Original packaging or documentation adds premium. Limited collector demand keeps values modest.
Vintage tackle dealers, estate sales, occasional eBay listings
Store in a cool, dry environment away from moisture to prevent corrosion of the bronzed finish. The marked shank is particularly susceptible to rust formation in humid conditions. Original documentation cards should be stored flat in acid-free sleeves to prevent further deterioration.
Avoid contact with dissimilar metals to prevent galvanic corrosion. The bronzed finish may develop additional patina over time, which collectors often consider desirable as evidence of authenticity. Handle with clean, dry hands to prevent fingerprint etching on the finish surface.
The handwritten specimen card shows three distinct entries in blue ballpoint ink: ‘O. Mustad’ (manufacturer identification), ‘Qol. 3816’ (likely quality control notation with model number), and ‘#7/0’ (size designation). The handwriting style and ink type suggest documentation from the 1960s-1970s period.
The ‘Qol.’ abbreviation likely stands for ‘Quality’ in Norwegian, indicating this may have been a quality control or inspection sample. The consistent handwriting suggests professional documentation rather than retail or collector notation.
| 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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