If the barb has not fully entered the skin, just pull the hook out carefully. It will hurt, but what do you expect? You have a fishhook in your hand.
If you have access to non-stick gauze or non-adherent bandage, apply them to the wound. These can help stop the bleeding without sticking.
Don’t forget to clean the area before attempting removal. Flush the wound with water to clear out as much dirt and debris as possible.
A sterile, 18-gauge or larger needle should be used if possible — this method may not work otherwise. [7] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source You can sterilize the needle with rubbing alcohol. If you don’t have access to alcohol, you can hold the tip of the needle into a flame (as from a lighter) until the metal glows red.
Be aware the hook can spring out with a lot of speed. Make sure the remover and bystanders are as clear as possible from the trajectory of the removed hook. Irrigate the wound as soon as the fish hook is removed by pouring clean water, wound cleanser, or saline solution on it. Let it bleed freely for a minute or so.
If you don’t have saline solution on hand, beverages with a high alcoholic content, like vodka or rum, will work in a pinch. This is not an ideal solution, but most fishermen are more likely to have alcohol on their boats than saline solution. [16] X Research source Hydrogen peroxide has long been used to disinfect fresh wounds. However, recent studies have shown this product to be largely ineffective. Some studies even suggest that it can cause more damage to the injured area than good. [17] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Wash the wound out as soon as possible after the hook is removed. This will go a long way in helping to avoid infection. Apply antibiotic cream and a bandage. Once you have disinfected and cleaned the wound, apply an antibiotic cream or ointment and attach a clean bandage to the wound. This will help kill any remaining bacteria and help to keep the wound free of dirt. [19] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Change the bandage often and allow the wound to breathe from time to time. [20] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source You may need to get stitches is the wound is particularly deep or large. [21] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
You have 72 hours to get a tetanus shot after injuring yourself.
The wound is not healing Swelling Oozing or seeping fluids or blood Warmth emanating from the wound Throbbing at the wound site Red streaks extending out from the wound site If you notice any of these signs, seek immediate medical attention.
