How to Cut Fishing Hooks

fish hook image by Bruce MacQueen from Fotolia.com

Cutting a fish hook might be necessary for many reasons. You or a fishing partner have been accidentally hooked. Using the advance and cut method of hook removal involves cutting the hook so that it can be removed. You will also need to cut a hook should you decide to change an inline spinner from a treble hook to a single hook to comply with local regulations. Cutting a hook is a simple process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Fish hook
Wire cutters
Eye protection

Step 1

Put on a pair of safety glasses. Eye protection is important when cutting a hook as the end of the hook that is cut free can be propelled by the force of cutting. This can result in a potential eye injury.

Step 2

Use a pair of medium-heavy to heavy wire cutters. Select wire cutters that are designed to cut heavy forged wires. The cutter's weight can be an indication as to the type of wire cutting that might be done, as heavier wire cutters can most often handle cutting heavy wire. Lighter weight wire cutters will most commonly be used for lighter wires such as floral or home electrical wire.

Step 3

Open the wire cutters' jaws and place them on either side of the fish hook. Attempt to position the hook's wire as far back in the jaws as possible.

Step 4

Place your free hand several inches above the hook to help deflect any part of the hook that might fly away when cut.

Step 5

Use firm and constant pressure to squeeze the cutter's grips together. Continue to apply pressure until the wire cutters sever the hook.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

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