How to Remove a Fishhook

If you do much fishing, sooner or later you're apt to hook something other than a fish - like your hand, back or thigh. Learn the right way to remove a fishhook to reduce pain and limit damage to your skin.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Betadine Solution
• Antibacterial Ointments
• Bandages
• Monofilament Line
• Pliers
• Pliers
• Bandages

1. Put ice or cold water on area to numb it.

2. Wiggle the hook gently. If the hook point is in just past the barb, and the hook moves easily without causing pain or bleeding, push the fishhook forward until the barbed end comes out of the skin.

3. Cut off barbed end.

4. Pull the rest of the hook back out through the original hole.

5. Clean wound with soap and water, and betadine if available.

6. Apply bandage if the wound is bleeding.

Tips & Warnings

• Treat wounds from fishhooks as puncture wounds. See a doctor if the wound appears to be getting infected.
• Emergency rooms often remove fishhooks with a 2-foot piece of strong monofilament line. Double the line, loop it around the embedded hook and back to the bend of the hook. Push down the hook eye with your thumb or forefinger, pressing down firmly on the eye of the hook so that the hook stands arched upward. Firmly grip the monofilament and yank. The hook usually flies right out.
• If the fishhook is in or near your eye, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Also seek medical care if you cannot remove it easily from any other location or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
• Do not attempt to remove hooks that are buried in the bone or through an artery, vein, nerve, ligament or tendon, or anywhere on your face.

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[iliao93]

on 8/25/2007 Very good, I would add clean the hook with a disinfectant before pulling the cut end back through as you risk dragging germs in under the skin.

on 11/22/2005 When the barb is buried into the flesh, if it's a treble hook, cut the hook with wire cutters a little above the skin so the lure and other hooks are out of the way. Grab the end of the hook that is sticking out with a forceps or pliers. Pull slightly and twist in a circular motion until it pops out, usually in one turn. I'm telling you, this works great. I've done it to myself more than once.