I don't really know the answer to this one, I 've been told the hooks rust or corrode. It can be a few days or a couple of months, I don't know.
Factors;
What the hook is made of. Stainless steel will take longer.
Saltwater, brackish water, freash water.
Where the fish is hooked.
Acids from the fish's digestive systems.
Actions of the fish trying to remove the hook.
Over the years I haven't caught many fish with hooks still in them. I guess the hooks come out or the fish dies????? The fish that I have caught with a hook still in it was lively and heathy.
Whatever you do, don't ask or show this to PETA.
Posted Mon Aug 05, 2013 8:30 am