Hello, 

Recently, I received the "Rapala Mini Hook Remover" as a gift. According to the package, it is great for catch and release fishing; however, I could only find a few reviews of this product online. Have you ever used this device before? If you have, does it function more efficiently than needle nose pliers?  Down below is a link the product on Amazon.com. Any information regarding usage (Pros/Cons) of this device would be helpful!!

 

http://www.amazon.com/Rapala-Hook-Remover-Inch-Mini/dp/B002PIP73A

I have used about every hook remover out there over the years. The best I have found is the Rapala 7 1/2 in Forceps.

 

 

I use one similar to that hook remover. It is all about what you prefer. I usually use it when the hook is a little deeper in the fish's mouth, I've found it to be better than pliers in some situations, but sometimes pliers are better suited. I carry both and use whichever will be best for the job!

I use this guy and really like it: http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-SqueezeOut-Hook-Remover/product/10213376/

 

Your Rapala ones look similar at the business end, so it should be fine.

 

I owned a pair of 8" curved forceps that worked OK, but I the locking mechanism would pop open on its own. And I found it a bit difficult to push DOWN with them since there is nothing to contact the hook (hard to explain). The hook remover tools have that "U" shaped notch on the stem can apply pressure when you push down towards the fishes tail.

Years ago a family friend had one of these hook-out deals but it was super skinny and light. It was magical with panfish, you could stick it right in the mouth of a gut-hooked panfish and it would eject the fish like nothing. Especially useful for bobber fishing with inattentive children. 

 

This thing by Danielson look as much like it as anything I can find: http://www.amazon.com/Danielson-Quick-Trigger-Hook-Remover/dp/B006L114SY

I bought it hoping I had found it - but nope. Piece of cheap garbage. 

 

That family friend said he bought it at a sporting goods show, best I can figure is maybe Danielson bought the guy's patent and has the thing made in China. . anyone ever seen anything like this? 

 

Eh, a shot in the dark. 

 

The best I have found is the Rapala 7 1/2 in Forceps.

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