Safely Unhooking and Releasing Pike: The Gill Plate Method

Updated at: 16/02/2025

Pike, with their powerful jaws and sharp teeth, present a unique challenge for anglers when it comes to safe handling and release. Improper handling can lead to injury for both the angler and the fish, potentially causing significant stress and even mortality. Understanding the correct techniques for unhooking and releasing these magnificent predators is crucial for ensuring their survival and maintaining the health of our waterways. This is particularly important for the practice of catch-and-release fishing, which is vital for the conservation of pike populations.

This article focuses on the Gill Plate Method, a safe and effective technique for unhooking pike, minimizing stress and injury. The following step-by-step guide will clearly illustrate this method, ensuring you can confidently and responsibly release your catch back into the water, healthy and unharmed.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear gloves to protect yourself from pike's sharp teeth and spines.
  • Never attempt to handle a pike larger than you can comfortably control. If unsure, use a net and release it in the water.
  • Support the pike's weight while unhooking to prevent injury to the fish and yourself. Keep it in the water as much as possible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Landing and Positioning

    • Use a landing net to carefully bring the pike out of the water.
    • Place the fish on an unhooking mat.
    Place the fish on an unhooking mat.
    Landing and Positioning

  2. Locating the Hooks

    • Locate the hooks. If uncertain, gently open the pike's mouth.
    Locate the hooks. If uncertain, gently open the pike's mouth.
    Locating the Hooks

  3. Gripping the Gill Plate

    • Carefully place your fingers behind the gill plate, avoiding the gill rakers.
    • Grip the tough, bony area underneath the gill plate.
    Grip the tough, bony area underneath the gill plate.Grip the tough, bony area underneath the gill plate.
    Gripping the Gill Plate

  4. Opening the Mouth

    • Tilt the gill plate back to open the fish's mouth and expose the hooks.
    Tilt the gill plate back to open the fish's mouth and expose the hooks.
    Opening the Mouth

  5. Hook Removal

    • Remove the hooks.
    Remove the hooks.
    Hook Removal

  6. Release

    • Release the pike back into the water.

Read more: Ultimate Hook Box Organization for Bass Fishing

Tips

  • If you are unsure about handling a pike, avoid putting your hands in the water. Use a net and unhooking mat.
  • Avoid touching the gill rakers to prevent damage to the fish's respiratory system.
  • Holding the fish between your legs while unhooking it helps to keep it secure and minimize stress.
  • Unhooking the fish while it's out of the water is safer and prevents unnecessary stress on the fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Improper Grip on the Gill Plate

Reason: Applying too much pressure or using an incorrect grip can damage the gill plate, injuring the fish.
Solution: Gently but firmly hold the gill plate with your thumb and forefinger, avoiding excessive force.

2. Holding the Pike Too Long Out of Water

Reason: Extended exposure to air causes stress and can lead to mortality.
Solution: Keep the pike submerged as much as possible during the unhooking process and return it to the water quickly.

FAQs

Is the gill plate method safe for the pike and for me?
Yes, when done correctly, it's the safest method for both. It minimizes stress and injury to the fish, and reduces the risk of getting hooked yourself. Always use appropriate pliers and handle the fish gently.
What if I can't reach the hook using the gill plate method?
If you cannot safely reach the hook, consider cutting the line as close to the hook as possible. This allows the fish to eventually shed the hook naturally. Always prioritize your safety. Consider seeking assistance from an experienced angler if needed.
What should I do if the pike is deeply hooked?
For deeply hooked pikes, it's best to seek assistance from an experienced angler or wildlife professional. Attempting to remove a deeply embedded hook can cause serious injury to the fish. In some cases, the hook may need to be surgically removed.