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Fishhook removal

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Skin layers
Skin layers

Alternative Names    Return to top

Fishhook removal from skin

Definition    Return to top

This article discusses how to remove a fishhook that is stuck in the skin.

Causes    Return to top

Symptoms    Return to top

First Aid    Return to top

If the barb of the hook has not entered the skin, pull the tip of the hook out in the opposite direction it went in. Otherwise, you can use one of the following methods for removal of a hook that is superficially (not deeply) embedded just beneath the skin:

Fish line method:

  1. First, wash your hands with soap.
  2. Put a loop of fish line through the bend of the fishhook so that a quick jerk can be applied and the hook can be pulled out directly in line with the shaft of the hook.
  3. Holding onto the shaft, push the hook slightly downwards and inwards (away from the barb) so as to disengage the barb.
  4. Holding this pressure constant to keep the barb disengaged, give a quick jerk on the fish line and the hook will pop out.
  5. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and apply a loose, sterile dressing.
  6. Watch the area for signs of infection: Redness, swelling, pain, or drainage.

Wire cutting method:

  1. First, wash your hands with soap. Then wash the area surrounding the embedded fishhook. After the skin is clean, apply gentle pressure along the curve of the fishhook while pulling on the hook.
  2. If the tip of the hook lies near the surface of the skin, push the tip through the skin, cut it off just behind the barb with wire cutters, and remove the remainder of the hook by pulling it back through the way it entered.
  3. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water, and apply a loose sterile dressing.

Do not use these methods or otherwise attempt to remove a fishhook that is deeply embedded in the skin, lodged within a joint or tendon, or located in or near an eye or artery. If you are at all unsure, it is best to seek medical attention immediately.

A fishhook in the eye is a medical emergency, and you should seek immediate emergency medical care. The area should be shielded or otherwise secured to avoid further movement. The injured person should lie down with the head slightly raised. The eye should not be moved until medical care is obtained.

DO NOT    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Seek immediate medical help if the fishhook is in the eye or located near an artery.

The main advantage to getting medical help for other fishhook injuries is that the fishhook can be removed under local anesthesia. That means the part of your body that is hurt is numbed with medicine before the fishhook is removed.

Call your doctor if:

Prevention    Return to top

Update Date: 1/30/2009

Updated by: John E. Duldner, Jr., MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Samaritan Regional Health System, Ashland, Ohio. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.