Remove a Fishhook From a Finger
 A deeply embedded treble fishhook that required an emergency room visit for removal. |
Some Good to Know Tips for Removing a Fishhook From a Finger
With large fishhooks, deeply embedded fishhooks that seem immovable (or near bone, eye, or an artery), or treble hooks with multiple penetrations, it's advisable to simply go to the emergency room. If you are not in range of professional medical help and you have a superficial penetration / puncture on a finger, you can try removing the hook yourself. The best way to remove a fishhook is not by backing it out unless the hook has no barbs. Backing out a fishhook could cause more damage since you would be going against the barb. * Try pushing the fishhook in the direction of least resistance (moving the tip of the hook forward). Then when the barbed portion is fully exposed, use clippers to cut-off the barb. At this point you can back the hook out. Treat the injury by thoroughly cleaning it. Make sure you have had a tetanus booster. Follow-up with a doctor.
* Note: this technique may cause skin trauma.
You can also try the "string-yank" or sometimes called "Snatch & Grab" methods but this is not likely to work for deeply embedded hooks. See links at the bottom of the page for instructions on using this technque.
Tip: It's always best to consult a doctor even for what might appear as a minor procedure. In some cases people have reported minor nerve damage / numbness months after removing a fishhook from a finger. A skilled physician can possibly lessen the severity and chances of this occurring.
How to Avoid Getting Punctured By Fishooks in the Future!
1. Many anglers remove the barbs from fishooks before they start fishing and especially treble hooks. This can be done using wire cutters or similar metal clipping tools and/or a file. You can also simply use pliers or hemostats to flatten the barb. It's widely known that the barbs cause unnecessary damage to fish and especially fish you want to catch-and-release without harm. In the case of treble hooks, you should still be able to hook fish just as well without the barbs in most cases. As for other typical barbed hooks it's unknown
 |
2. Never try removing a hook without first wearing sure grip gloves to help you grip-onto a slippery fish. Frequently injuries from fishooks happen during the removal process when struggling to get the hook out. A fish may suddenly flap about once you start tugging at the hook. This is especially true for larger fish that are harder to handle due to weight and size. Have someone assist you with larger catches to help keep the fish immobilized during hook removal to avoid injury to you and the fish if catch-and-release.
3.
It's recommended you use pliers especially for deeply embedded hooks that are difficult to remove from the fish.
4. Never blindly reach into your tackle box!
Fishhook Removal Links:
http://www.aafp.org/afp/20010601/2231.html
http://hometown.aol.com/cebushnell/page10.html