Big Game De-Hookers

[MBILL]

Has anyone used those 6ft long dehookers? They resemble a tag stick with a metal pig tail at the end. Looks like a good way to get Shark hooks back and deal with Bluefin releases.

[abollaci]

I've been using one for a few years, I get out about 75% of the hooks from sharks. I released more than 150 bluesharks in the past two seasons. So it pays for itself fast. It takes a few to get the hang of but you get the hang of it quick. New forum is great.

[MBILL]

I figured that the hook and rig savings alone would pay for the thing....

[Offshore Adventurer]

For shark, with the 10/0 and 11/0 hooks, it works pretty well, although we are only between 50-60% successful. It takes some practice, the shark has to be hooked in the mouth area and in the right position next to the boat to snap it out of its mouth. The calmer the shark is, the better it works.
As for BFT, the pigtail is a little big to work with the 6/0 & 7/0 Owner hooks we use - I am thinking the smaller 3' model might be the ticket for those while in the water - the Striped Bass sized one works well if you have the BFT in the cockpit.