Barbless Hooks

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The use of barbless hooks for sport fishing is mandatory in the NWT. Barbless hooks permit easier removal of the hook, minimizing damage to the fish and reducing handling time, which subsequently increases the chances of survival for released fish. Many fish that are released after being caught with a barbed hook later die from excessive handling or bleeding. Barbless hooks can be purchased at local sporting goods stores. Barbed hooks can easily be converted to barbless by either crimping or filing the barb off.