LAMSON | Ketchum Release Hook Extractor | Big Bug | Larger Fly Patterns

Well, I always liked the idea of these things and 20 years ago a friend bought one and I liked it until I found out it was twenty dollars for it. I mean, it's not a technical marvel - these types of hook disgorgers have been around in various forms and designs for 100 years - but it is more refined and it's super light weight and the way it goes down the line to the hook is pretty awesome.So, I waited for it to go on sale.20 years later, it's still $20. Trust me, that's a better value now than it was 20 years ago when you could buy a dozen flies for $10.All that said, I wanted it for unhooking bluegill, smaller bass and trout - so I bought the medium. It looks a little small to me, but I haven't used it yet. Hopefully it will work ok up to a 2/0 hook. I'll use it mostly on panfish and trout anyway, so it should be fine.Kudos to the manufacturer and owners for making something that has been around so long and hasn't gone UP a dime in 20 years. I doubt anything else in fishing can claim that - and man, what a profit you guys must have made from the early adopters if you're still selling them at 20 bucks a pop! :)

This thing works like a champ. I was using it wrong at first, I thought it was just push the hook down and it'd come out, I was missing the twist at the end. Once I figured that out it was great, fish come off with no problem, and no trauma.The product also says it comes with a warranty, it seems solid so I don't think I'll need it, but its nice to have.

For size 12 dry flies this the size to have or any larger flies. I am a fishing guide and work over 100 days a year plus fish every day off I can. I always have the original and the big bug with me. I do wish they would make a model with a stainless steel shaft. I have never broken one on a fish but have broken a pile of them when I lean up against the boat . This is a must have tool if you care about the fish.

I have used these since they hit the market (what was that 25 years ago?). While it seems expensive for what it is I value its elegance, and ease of use. This one was a gift for my son who is really taking to everything fish. He's 13 now, and I expect that he'll be using this tool for the rest of his life unless he loses it...It is worth the money to make it easier for my son to release fish with minimal contact. Great Product!

If you or anyone you know is a catch and release fisherman, then you need one of these. I have seen several people use them on fish they didn't need to net, and it works great. I haven't had a chance to use mine but I will update the review once I do.

Flips trout off hook but if not attached to lanyard, fish can flip it out of your hand as happened to me trout fishing last week. Luckily landed in shallow water and was able to retrieve it. Attached to coiled lanyard after that.

Takes a little practice to perfect using this tool but it’s the best thing for catch and release. Never have to touch the fish and they swim off in perfect condition

These worked great the first time but they only work for flies and single hook applications where the line is attached directly to the hook.. They don't work on lures.