Advance-and-cut method of fish hook removal

If medical help is not available to remove a fish hook, this method is an option. If removal of the fishhook is too painful, seek medical care.

Step A

Alternate method of fish hook removal, step A
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slide 1 of 4, Step A,

Determine that the fish hook is deeply embedded and cannot be removed by the string-pull method. Use ice or cold water to numb the area.

Step B

Step B: Push the hook through the skin
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slide 2 of 4, Step B,

Push the hook the rest of the way through the skin so the barb comes out through the skin.

Step C

Step C: Cut off the barb
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slide 3 of 4, Step C,

Carefully cut off the barb. (Wire cutters work.)

Step D

Step D: Remove the hook
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slide 4 of 4, Step D,

Remove the rest of the hook by pulling it back out from where it entered the skin.

Be sure to clean the wound to prevent infection.

Current as of: November 9, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine