Quote:
Originally Posted by Zeal
I've noticed this in fluke but in bluefish more than any other fish I've caught...When I grab em and go to remove the hook (bucktail 99% of the time if it matters), as soon as the hook barely starts to move they bite down and get a case of lockjaw.
Fluke I know there is a trick involving sticking your finger up a crease into their mouth and opening the jaw for them without causing damage, however with bluefish I just have to literally sit there on the rock and wait for it to "let go".
I don't bring gadgets with me and just have pliers but anyone know ways around this? I've literally had fish unhooked but they will clamp down on the hook and won't let me pull it out.
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I always carry a plastic fish gripper at the very least, cheap about $15 and they float and actually have a really strong grip, then a boga for the surf.
only trick ive used on big bluefish is squeezing the connection of the jaw while pushing forward, at the very least it will allow you get the hook out.