Spanish mackerel have such small, razor-sharp teeth that many fishermen who are nipped don’t realize it until they see drops of blood or bloody fingers. Most fishermen are nipped while removing the hooks.
Rennie Clark removes hooks from Spanish mackerel, bluefish and other small fish caught trolling without handling the fish at all. There is a small chance his hand holding the hook could slip and run across a tooth, but it’s far lower than when holding the fish to remove the hook.
When a Spanish is landed, Clark opens his fish box before lifting the fish into the boat. When it is close enough, he grabs the leader and swings it immediately into the fish box. Once inside, he uses his other hand to grab the lid of the box and almost close it. Using the leader, he pulls the fish into a corner of the opening until just its head is sticking out and pushes down on the lid to hold the fish.
With the fish held by the pressure of the lid, Clark uses pliers to remove the hook, releases the pressure on the lid and the weight of the fish slides it back into the box.
There are several benefits from removing the hooks this way. First, it’s rare that something slips and Clark gets bitten or cut by the fish’s teeth. Second, Clark has no slime on his hands; and third, it’s possible to get the lure back out immediately and get back to fishing.
Most fish carry bacteria and occasionally viruses in their mouths. Even when they seem minor, fish bites should be tended to immediately. The recommended first aid for minor fish bites is to clean the bite thoroughly, apply an antibiotic and wrap the bite to prevent infection. Once back on land, it is wise to have the bite checked by a doctor. Some infections carried by fish are serious and need stronger antibiotics than are available across the counter.
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