Do any of you have experience using barbless hooks for small panfish(bluegill, etc.)? I was just wondering if this would be a better option for younger kids who often struggle with getting the barb out on a fish that swallows the hook.

[JM]

Do any of you have experience using barbless hooks for small panfish(bluegill, etc.)? I was just wondering if this would be a better option for younger kids who often struggle with getting the barb out on a fish that swallows the hook.

[Pathfinder1]

Hi...!!


If the fish SWALLOWS the hook...I have a feeling that it's not coming out easy, if at all...barbed or not...!!

[JM]

Hi...!!


If the fish SWALLOWS the hook...I have a feeling that it's not coming out easy, if at all...barbed or not...!!

I just mean inside of the mouth, not clear down in the stomach! Leave it to you to correct me on that one hah.

[4everAutumn]

I've flattened barbs for bluegill before, but have never fished completely barbless. The lump that the flattened barb leaves still hold the fish pretty well but does make them easier to take off. This might be worth a try for you.

[JM]

I've flattened barbs for bluegill before, but have never fished completely barbless. The lump that the flattened barb leaves still hold the fish pretty well but does make them easier to take off. This might be worth a try for you.

That would be easier than having to buy new barbless hooks as well...I was actually thinking of ways to remove the barb, but smashing it down seems like a better idea.

[jhjimbo]

I flatten the barb as well. If it is real deep and you want to release, cut the hook leader and the fish may survive.
If you keep getting hooks swallowed you need a more sensitive rig so you get them in the lip.

[Okwaho]

I use needle-nose pliers and flatten the barbs on all my lures and hooks. I started doing it just with trout spinners, but then one summer I had a thrashing smallmouth put a Rapala's hook under my thumbnail. Getting that out was a real treat.

[JM]

I flatten the barb as well. If it is real deep and you want to release, cut the hook leader and the fish may survive.
If you keep getting hooks swallowed you need a more sensitive rig so you get them in the lip.

@JHP,
I'm asking this because when little cousins come over they always run up to the house every time they can't get the hook out. Bobber can't get much smaller than what I have them throwing. They just don't have the quickest reaction time haha.

[huntfishtrap]

I use needle-nose pliers and flatten the barbs on all my lures and hooks. I started doing it just with trout spinners, but then one summer I had a thrashing smallmouth put a Rapala's hook under my thumbnail. Getting that out was a real treat.

You aren't kidding about that. I imbedded the treble hook of a spinner under my fingernail a few years ago. Had to have someone cut it out with a sterilized razor blade. That's about as fun as it sounds.

[DSMbirddog]

I think it is a pretty good idea JM. Even for adults. As 4ever autumn states, you won't lose many fish if you keep your line tight.

[Pathfinder1]

I flatten the barb as well. If it is real deep and you want to release, cut the hook leader and the fish may survive.
If you keep getting hooks swallowed you need a more sensitive rig so you get them in the lip.

Hi...


You might be able to release them better by also using a hook with a longer shank...!! (more hook to grip).