String-Pull Method for Removing a Fishhook
If the fishhook is not deeply embedded, the string-pull method for removing a fishhook may be used. If removal of the fishhook is too painful, seek medical care. If the fishhook has more than one barb, cut all the barbs off or tape the other barbs so you do not get hurt again.
Step A
Tie a piece of string, dental floss, or fishing line to the hook where it enters the skin.
Illustration copyright 2000 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com
Step B
Hold the round end of the hook with your fingers. Press down gently about 0.13 in. (0.3 cm) to loosen the barb.
Illustration copyright 2000 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com
Step C
While still pressing the hook down (barb loosened), jerk the string so that the hook shaft pulls the barb out of the skin. When the fishhook comes out of the skin, it may fly or flip out. Take care not to hurt yourself or a bystander with the loose fishhook.
Be sure to clean the wound to prevent infection.
Illustration copyright 2000 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com
Last Revised: April 26, 2011
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
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