How to Safely Take a Catfish Off Fishing Hook

Many of us have heard about, or experienced, the injuries Catfish can cause while being removed from a fishing hook. By following some simple steps and putting safety first, you can remove them from your line rather than cutting it and sacrificing a hook.

Things You Will Need

A pair of heavy duty work gloves
Needle nose pliers

After reeling your Catfish in, immediately lower your pole and the Catfish to the ground. Do not let it dangle and flail as this increases the chance of injury to yourself and others nearby.

Put on a pair of heavy duty work gloves before handling the Catfish. If there are no gloves available, use a towel. Catfish are slimy and can be difficult to get a firm grip on. With your hand over its back, grasp the fish firmly behind its gills.

Use the needle nose pliers to remove the hook from the Catfish's mouth. Keep your hand as far away from its mouth as possible. Keep in mind that the fish will continue to squirm and fight so you have to keep a firm grip on it from behind the gills. Keep its head under control. If the fish is large, or you are having difficulty, ask someone nearby for help. Always keep safety in mind!

If the Catfish has swallowed the hook, or the hook is deeply embedded, then you should cut the line.

If you have to carry the Catfish anywhere, support its weight by placing one hand under its belly while continuing to hold it behind the gills with the other hand.

When placing the fish on a stringer, do so on the ground. You will maintain better control as you slide the stringer lead through the back of the gills and up through the mouth.

Tips & Warnings

 Always maintain a well stocked tackle box with any tools you may need while fishing.

 Always carry a first aid kit while fishing.