SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/fish-hook-barb

What does the barb on a fish hook do?

It keeps the fish from unhooking.

Start playing free

  1. Ties the line to the hook
  2. Measures the hook size
  3. Keeps the fish from unhooking ✔

Why: The barb is a small backward-pointing projection near the point. Once the hook is set, it makes it harder for the fish to slip off.

Huh, didn't know that: Take Me Fishing lists six hook parts: point, barb, bend, shank, eye and gap.

The dad joke
Why did the fish cross the road? Cause it was hooked!
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Keeps the fish from unhooking. The barb is a small backward-pointing projection near the point. Once the hook is set, it makes it harder for the fish to slip off.

  1. How to Choose Fishing Hooks (Take Me Fishing) www.takemefishing.org/how-to-fish/fishing-gear-and-tackle/how-to-choose-fishing-hooks
    The barb is the projection extending backwards from the point that keeps the fish from unhooking.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Barbless Hooks for Fishing (Take Me Fishing) www.takemefishing.org/how-to-fish/fishing-gear-and-tackle/barbless-hooks-for-fishing
    Hooks without barbs are far better to use for catch and release fishing
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

FishingWhich part of a hook do you tie your line to?FishingOn the fishing hook size scale, which hook is the smallest?FishingWhich hook sizes suit deep-sea fishing for big fish like yellowfin tuna?

That's stuff everyone should know.