The Difference Between Dry And Wet Hooks

[Arofishing]

I just started tying some BWOs in size 18 but I only have wet fly hooks. What is the difference between wet and dry, I've assumed it is the shape of the hook? Do I need to make a run to the store to get dry hooks or is it not a big deal?

[dgames]

I believe wet fly hooks are heavier, made from thicker wire.

[Arofishing]

I wondered about weight too.

[jdmidwest]

Wet fly hooks are made with stiffer, heavier wire and usually have different shape, shorter shank. Dry hooks are made with fine wire and have longer shanks as a rule.

You would probably sink a size 18 with a wet fly hook, not much material there to make it stay on top.

[Wayne SW/MO]

It is the wire gauge. Sometimes you can get away with a nymph hook for a dry, but never with a fly that sits on the tail and front hackle, IMO.

Actually length has nothing to do with it. Some hooks seem to be stronger for their gauge, TMC's come to mind, but its an opinion.