By the definition If I am not attempting to snag a fish but it so happens that a legaly hook fish comes in backwards because of hook slippage I can keep it.

No,no,no I doubt if if your using a 10/0 single or a treble hook your going to get away with that one!

I am talking about a 1/2 inch hook gap If that. I think it would be pretty obvious that I am not attempting to snag fish.