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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Removing a Fishhook

Removing a Fishhook

Overview

Do not try to remove a fishhook (seek medical care instead) if any of the following are true:

  • The fishhook is in or near an eye.
  • The fishhook is in a joint, in a bone, or deep in a muscle.
  • You are concerned that removing the fishhook may damage nearby blood vessels or nerves.
  • The person who is injured is not calm and cannot help.
  • You are afraid to remove the fishhook.

If the fishhook is not near an eye, joint, bone, or deep muscle, and you are confident you can remove it, try these steps.

  1. First, cut any fishing line, fish, bait, or lure from the fishhook.

    This is best done with sharp, side-cutting pliers.

  2. Use ice or cold water for 2 to 3 minutes to numb the area.
  3. If the barb of the fishhook has not entered the skin, pull the tip of the hook back out.
  4. If the barb is embedded in the skin, first try the string-pull method.
  5. If medical help is not available and the fishhook is deeply embedded in the skin, try the advance-and-cut method.

    If medical help is available, have a deeply embedded fishhook removed by a doctor or nurse.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024-2025 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

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Fishhook Injuries

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