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Advance-and-Cut Method of Fishhook Removal

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

Step A

Illustration of the alternate method of fish hook removal.

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

Step B

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

Step C

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

Step D

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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.

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Revised	April 26, 2011

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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