When fishing, accidents can happen, and sometimes a hook can get embedded past the barb in your skin. Knowing how to safely remove it is crucial to prevent further injury. Here are the steps to take if you find yourself in this situation.
Assess the Situation
First, assess the location of the hook and the depth of the penetration. If the hook is near a sensitive area or deeply embedded, it's best to seek medical attention. Trying to remove it yourself in these cases can lead to more damage. Medical care isn't always available; in case of being on a boat in the middle of a lake, you may need to extract the hook yourself or assist someone else.
Clean the Area
Always be sure to have a first aid kit on your boat or in your tackle box. Before attempting to remove the hook, clean the area around the entry point with a wound wash, or if you're near running water, soap and water. This helps reduce the risk of infection once the hook is out.
Push and Cut
If the hook is only slightly embedded, you can try the push and cut method. Push the hook through the skin until the barb is visible, then cut the barb off with wire cutters. Finally, back the remaining part of the hook out the way it came in.
String Yank
For deeper hooks, the string yank method can be effective. Tie a loop of strong string around the bend of the hook, then push down on the shank while pulling up on the string quickly. This should dislodge the hook.
Seek Medical Help
If you are unable to remove the hook yourself or if it is deeply embedded, seek medical help immediately. A healthcare professional can safely remove the hook and provide proper care for the wound.
Remember, it's essential to stay calm and handle the situation with care. By following these steps, you can safely remove a hook that has penetrated past the barb.
Tight Lines!