Smith’s Sporting Group has unveiled its Patent Pending 7.25-inch De-Hooker with Venting Tool at ICAST 2024, now available for purchase. This innovative tool, introduced in July 2024, is designed to help anglers comply with recent mandates from state wildlife agencies in Texas and Florida requiring venting devices on fishing vessels. With a focus on reef fish conservation, this multi-tool aims to reduce the negative effects of barotrauma on species like snapper and grouper in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean.
Understanding Barotrauma: Why Anglers Need Venting Tools
Barotrauma occurs when a fish's swim bladder gas expands due to rapid ascent, making it difficult for the fish to return to the seafloor. This condition is often indicated by symptoms like bulging eyes and protruding stomachs, highlighting the need for immediate intervention to ensure the fish’s survival after release. In response to these challenges, Smith’s developed a multi-function tool that makes it easier for anglers to safely release fish experiencing barotrauma.De-Hooker: Gentle Release with Minimal Trauma
The dehooker component of Smith’s tool is designed for quick and safe hook removal, reducing injury to both fish and angler. With a simple maneuver, the bent wire flips the hook upside down, using gravity to release the fish gently. This reduces handling time, minimizing the stress and trauma that fish experience during the release process.Precision Venting Tool: Relieving Pressure for Fish Recovery
How the Venting Tool Works
Smith’s venting tool mechanism is built for precision, featuring a 1.75-inch hollow and retractable stainless steel needle. To use, anglers insert the needle at a 45-degree angle, approximately 2 to 3 inches behind the base of the fish's pectoral fin. This allows them to safely release trapped gas from the swim bladder, enabling the fish to return to its natural depth and resume normal swimming behavior.Safe and Convenient Design
Safety is a priority in the design of this combination venting tool and dehooker:- A locking thumb-operated slider keeps the needle safely retracted during storage and transport.
- An ergonomic handle with TPE textured non-slip grip ensures secure handling, even with wet or slippery hands.
- A lanyard hole in the handle provides easy storage, ensuring that the tool is always within reach when needed.
The Importance of Venting Tools for Responsible Anglers
With regulations increasingly requiring venting tools onboard, Smith’s 7.25-inch De-Hooker with Venting Tool is essential for anglers dedicated to sustainable fishing practices. By using this tool, anglers can significantly improve the post-release survival rates of popular species like snapper and grouper, contributing to healthier fish populations and marine ecosystems.MSRP and Availability
- MSRP: $14.99
- Available now through Smith’s Sporting Group.
About Smith’s Sporting Group
Smith’s Sporting Group, with a history dating back to 1886, is a versatile company offering products for outdoor enthusiasts. Their offerings span from fishing and hunting gear to equipment for camping, hiking, and even team sports like baseball, softball, and pickleball. Smith’s is committed to creating high-quality products that support a lifetime of outdoor pursuits.Key Takeaways
- Smith’s 7.25-inch De-Hooker with Venting Tool helps anglers address barotrauma in reef fish like snapper and grouper.
- The tool features a dehooker for gentle hook removal and a precision venting mechanism for relieving swim bladder pressure.
- The ergonomic design and locking safety features make it easy to use in all conditions, supporting responsible and sustainable fishing practices.
- The MSRP for the tool is $14.99, and it is now available for purchase.
- Smith’s new tool aligns with regulations in Texas and Florida, making it a valuable asset for anglers committed to reef fish conservation.
