How do you get rid of the barbs? It seems like the strength of the hook would be affected by just mashing it down..?

It isn't going to ruin the hook. Use a pair of pliers or hemostats. I mash the barbs on my trout hooks now, for easy release, and tiny #10 hooks still hold up to double digit steelhead no problem.

best method by far ive seen to remove gut hooked fish, works every time for me. one of the best things i ever learned on this site. good thing to because the next 3 bass i caught after learning this were hooked in the gullet. also had to use the method 3-4 times this past saturday...

http://www.in-fisherman.com/print/3560

Probably you are having a lot of slack or letting it take the bait until you will for sure catch it.

Had to deal with 3 today........

 

I use light wire hook.

With wire cutter, cut the shank.

With pliers crimp the barb

Though the gill rotate the hook out.

 

Cutting the shank really helps