When you are dealing with a “crocodile” of the deep, having the right tools isn’t just a matter of convenience—it is a fundamental requirement for fish welfare and your own safety. Pike are apex predators with hundreds of needle-sharp, rear-facing teeth and incredibly powerful jaws. At Gerry’s Fishing, we provide the professional-grade arsenal you need to unhook, handle, and release these magnificent fish quickly and safely.
Our selection focuses on high-leverage, long-reach implements designed to keep your fingers away from the “business end” while providing the surgical precision needed to remove deep-set hooks or cut through heavy-duty wire traces.
Pike tools must withstand the corrosive environment of the bankside while maintaining enough grip strength to move large treble hooks. We prioritize 316 Stainless Steel and High-Carbon Steel for our range.
| Tool Type | Specification Details | Primary Function |
| Long-Reach Forceps | 10” to 12” (25cm–30cm) length. Available in straight or curved “artery” styles with locking ratchets. | Precision hook removal from the mouth and throat. |
| Side/Wire Cutters | High-leverage jaws, often hardened carbon steel. Capable of snipping 50lb+ wire and 3X strong hooks. | Emergency hook cutting or rig building. |
| Pistol Grip Pliers | Ergonomic offset handles for maximum visibility and 90-degree leverage. | Removing stubborn or “buried” lure hooks. |
| Crimp Tools | Five-point pressure cups for 0.6mm to 1.0mm copper/brass crimps. | Creating safe, fail-proof wire traces. |
| Sling Mats | 120cm+ length with high-density foam and fish-friendly PVC coating. | Safe unhooking and weighing in one unit. |
1. The Unhooking Essentials (Forceps & Pliers)
A 10-inch pair of forceps is your most used tool. For hooks that are visible but stubborn, the ratchet-lock allows you to “clamp and twist” without losing your grip. If a pike has “gulped” a lure and the hooks are near the gills, a curved-nose pair of forceps allows you to work around the gill rakers without causing damage.
2. Emergency Cutting (Wire & Hook Cutters)
Sometimes, a hook is positioned in a way that removal would cause unnecessary trauma to the fish (or it’s embedded in your own finger!). A pair of high-quality side cutters is non-negotiable. Being able to snip the point and barb off a treble hook allows it to be slid out backwards, saving the fish from major injury.
3. Rig Construction (Crimpers & Scissors)
For the DIY angler, precision crimping is vital. Unlike standard pliers, dedicated crimping tools apply even pressure around the wire without “pinching” it, which can create a weak spot. Combined with heavy-duty braid scissors, these tools allow you to build traces that won’t fail when a specimen-sized pike decides to run.
Pro Tip from the Gerry’s Team
The “Through the Gills” Technique: If a pike is “deep hooked” (the hooks are behind the last gill arch), never try to pull the hook out through the mouth. Instead, carefully enter through the gill cover (being extremely careful not to touch the red, sensitive gill rakers) with your long-reach forceps. You can often see the hook much better from this angle, allowing you to turn it and “pop” it out into the mouth cavity, where it can then be easily removed.
Why do I need such long forceps?
Standard 5-inch trout or coarse forceps are dangerous for pike fishing. A 10 or 12-inch pair keeps your hand completely outside the pike’s mouth. This gives you a better field of vision and ensures that if the pike thrashes unexpectedly, your knuckles aren’t shredded by its teeth.
Should I use a Pike Gag?
Modern pike angling has largely moved away from gags, as they can damage the pike’s jaw if used incorrectly. We recommend learning the “Glove Hand” or “Chin Finger” grip to safely open the mouth. However, for beginners or in extreme deep-hooking scenarios, a rubber-tipped gag can be used sparingly as a last resort.
How do I prevent my tools from rusting?
Even stainless steel can develop “tea staining” or surface rust in damp tackle boxes. After every session, wipe your tools down with a cloth and a small amount of WD-40 or multi-purpose oil. Pay special attention to the hinge/pivot point to ensure the action stays smooth.
Can I use standard DIY pliers?
While you can, dedicated fishing pliers are usually thinner and longer, allowing for better visibility inside a dark mouth. They also feature corrosion-resistant coatings that standard hardware store pliers lack, meaning they won’t seize up after one wet weekend.
We believe that fish care is the most important part of being a predator angler. At Gerry’s, we don’t just sell tools; we sell peace of mind. We stock the exact same kit used by the UK’s top pike specialists, ensuring that when you finally land that “30,” you have the confidence and the equipment to return her to the water in perfect condition.
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