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

After removing a shallow fishhook, how should you treat the wound?

Clean it and use a loose dressing, no tape closure.

Start playing free

  1. Close it tightly with tape
  2. Wash it and cover loosely ✔
  3. Leave it open in the sun

Why: MedlinePlus says to wash the wound and apply a loose sterile dressing, watching for infection. Closing with tape can raise the risk of infection.

Huh, didn't know that: Keeping a safe distance from anyone who is casting helps prevent hook injuries.

The dad joke
Why did the dog jump from the boat into the ocean? He thought he saw a catfish.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Wash it and cover loosely. MedlinePlus says to wash the wound and apply a loose sterile dressing, watching for infection. Closing with tape can raise the risk of infection.

  1. MedlinePlus Fishhook removal medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000055.htm
    Apply a loose, sterile dressing. Do not close the wound with tape.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. MedlinePlus Fishhook removal medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000055.htm
    Keep a safe distance between you and another person who is fishing, especially if anyone is casting.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. MedlinePlus Fishhook removal medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000055.htm
    if the hook is stuck deeply in the skin, or in a joint or tendon
    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

FishingA fishhook is stuck in someone's eye. What should you do?FishingWhat is an early sign of paralytic shellfish poisoning?FishingHow much line do you fold over to start a Palomar knot?

That's stuff everyone should know.