Tools These are an absolute necessity for any pike angler. Removing treble hooks from the mouth of a pike requires skill, patience and the right tools. You must have a pair of reliable forceps – preferably long and short nosed versions – to reach those hooks, plus some strong and sharp cutters for severing wire and hooks should the need arise. Unhooking mats , although pike look somewhat vicious, they are incredibly sensitive and really need handled with care. A long padded unhooking mat is a must as this will help protect the pike as it is being unhooked. Landing nets are also important although more experienced anglers do tend to hand lift pike, this prevents splitting the pike's fins. All novice pike anglers should use a Landing net. The net should be a good size too, this is more comforting when landing specimen sized fish.
Above: Scales, forceps, pliers. wire cutters, mat and weigh sling.
Right: A big landing net saves damaging specimen sized fish.