Old and Worn Northwest Coast Halibut Hook

This is a northern style two piece wood halibut hook with a hand forged iron spike angled forward and secured to the lower half by wrapped cotton cordage which is also used at the lower end to secure the ends of the two sections to each other. A much larger cordage secures the two halves in their middle and an even larger cordage intended to be attached to a float runs through the top section. All of the cordages show considerable wear. The upper section has a simple carved head of an animal, probably a bear facing down and the end shows wear.  This halibut hook was not made for sale but rather made to be used and it clearly shows it was well-used.  

L. 11 ¼"