Barbless

Barbless refers to a fishing hook that lacks a barb, the small backward-facing point near the hook’s tip that helps retain a catch. A barbless hook is either manufactured without a barb or has its barb flattened or crimped to render it ineffective. Barbless hooks are commonly used in catch-and-release fishing because the absence of a barb often reduces tissue damage and can ease removal.

Barbless hooks come in the same range of styles and sizes as standard hooks. They may be produced specifically as barbless models, or an angler can convert a standard hook by flattening the barb with pliers. When converting hooks, care should be taken to avoid creating sharp edges that could cut tissue during handling or removal.

Advantages of barbless hooks include reduced injury to fish during capture and release, potentially higher post-release survival, and easier, quicker removal. Disadvantages can include a higher likelihood of losing fish on hooks that would otherwise be retained by a barb, especially in fast runs or heavy cover, and they may require different tactics or equipment. Barbless hooks may also be regulated differently across jurisdictions and fisheries.

Regulatory and ethical considerations vary by region. Some areas require or encourage barbless hooks for certain species or waters to minimize mortality, while others allow barbed hooks. Anglers should check local regulations before fishing and employ best-practice handling to reduce harm to wildlife and ecosystems. Related terms include barbed hooks and catch-and-release fishing.