A hook removal device

Abstract

A hook rotation and removal device, for assisting in the removal of a hook from a fish, comprising a hollow outer barrel and an inner barrel, the inner barrel movable within the outer barrel between an extended and retracted position. The inner barrel adapted to engage a portion of a hook when the inner barrel is in the extended position, and the outer barrel adapted to adapted to lock and aid rotation of the hook in conjunction with the inner barrel when the inner barrel is in the retracted position. According to one aspect of the technology, the outer barrel and inner barrel are connected to a handle, wherein the handle includes a biasing member operable such that when the biasing member is activated or released by the handle, the inner barrel and / or outer barrel move relative to one another.

Description

[0001] A HOOK REMOVAL DEVICE

[0002] 1. STATEMENT OF CORRESPON DING APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application is based on the Provisional specification filed in relation to New Zealand Patent Application Number 813749, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] 2. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005] The technology relates to a hook removal device. More specifically, the technology relates to a device for removing a fishing hook from a line-caught fish.

[0006] 3. BACKGROUND ART

[0007] Fish hook removal devices have been developed to assist anglers and individuals in safely and efficiently extracting fish hooks embedded in fish skin or that have been swallowed when a fish has been caught using a fishing line. Often, fish that have been caught are undersized, or are an unwanted species, and in such cases, the preference is to remove the hook with as little harm to the fish as possible, to ensure the survival of the fish when returned to the water.

[0008] Existing fish hook removal devices generally fall into several categories, each with its own advantages and limitations. One common type utilizes pliers or forceps-like mechanisms to grip the hook and facilitate its extraction. While effective in many cases, these devices often require a significant amount of dexterity and precision to operate correctly, especially when dealing with small or deeply embedded hooks. They can also cause significant harm to the fish, which is not desirable if the fish is to be thrown back to the water.

[0009] Another category includes hook removers designed to slide down the shank of the hook, pushing it back through the entry wound. While potentially less invasive than other methods, these devices may not be suitable for all hook placements or types, particularly those embedded deeply or in sensitive areas. This method is also unsuitable for fish hooks embedded at awkward angles, where applying a force in the direction needed for removal becomes impossible without killing the fish.

[0010] Additionally, various designs incorporate mechanisms such as barb crushers, protective sleeves, or ergonomic handles to enhance usability and safety during hook removal. However, challenges remain in creating a device that is universally effective, easy to use across different hook sizes and placements, and minimally invasive to both the fish and the person handling the removal.

[0011] Moreover, existing devices may not adequately address the need for portability, ease of cleaning, or durability in outdoor environments where fishing activities often take place. Issues such as corrosion resistance, compact storage, and intuitive operation in adverse conditions also pose ongoing challenges in the design and usability of fish hook removal devices.

[0012] Therefore, there exists a continuing need for improved fish hook removal devices that effectively address the limitations of current technologies, offering enhanced functionality, ease of use, and versatility across various fishing scenarios while ensuring minimal harm to both the fish and the user.

[0013] 4 OBJECT OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0014] It is an object of the technology to provide a hook rotation and / or removal device for removing a hook from a fish.

[0015] It is a further object of the technology to provide a method for rotation and removal of a hook from a fish.

[0016] Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to at least provide the public with a useful choice.

[0017] It is an object of the present technology to address the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

[0018] 5. SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0019] According to one aspect of the technology there is provided a hook rotation and removal device, for assisting in the removal of a hook from a fish, the hook rotation and removal device comprising an outer barrel, and an inner barrel housed at least partially within the outer barrel, the inner barrel movable within the outer barrel between an extended position, wherein at least a portion of the inner barrel extends from the outer barrel, and a retracted position, wherein a greater portion of the inner barrel is retained within the outer barrel compared to the extended position; the inner barrel configured to engage a portion of a hook when the inner barrel is in the extended position; and the outer barrel configured to define at least one elongate aperture in a wall of the outer barrel, the elongate aperture configured to engage and secure a portion of the hook engaged by the inner barrel when the inner barrel is in the retracted position.

[0020] In some forms, the outer barrel and inner barrel are connected to a handle portion, the handle portion including a biasing member operable such that when the biasing member is activated or released by the handle, the inner barrel and / or outer barrel move relative to one another between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0021] In some forms, the outer barrel further comprises; a handle end and an opposing engagement end, the handle end of the outer barrel configured with a handle portion; the engagement end of the outer barrel including an elongate aperture formed in a top wall region of the outer barrel, the elongate aperture extending a discrete length along the longitudinal axis of the outer barrel from an open engagement end of the outer barrel along a portion of a top wall region of the outer barrel; a bottom wall region opposing the top wall region, the bottom wall region of the outer barrel extending from the engagement end of the outer barrel further away from the handle than the top wall region, forming a tongue member.

[0022] In some forms, the tongue member of the outer barrel comprises two or more protrusions extending from the tongue away from the handle end of the outer barrel along the longitudinal axis of the outer barrel, the two or more protrusions configured to define a hook receiving space therebetween to receive a portion of a fishing hook.

[0023] In some forms, the device comprises two protrusions, the two protrusions configured such that the hook receiving space defined therebetween is widest at the engagement end of the outer barrel distal from the handle end.

[0024] In some forms, the outer barrel comprises a pair of first barrel edges each defining opposing elongate edges of the elongate aperture in the top wall region of the outer barrel, and a pair of second barrel edges defining opposing outside edges of the tongue member of the outer barrel, the first pair of barrel edges and second pair of barrel edges longitudinally parallel but offset from each other. In some forms, each barrel edge of the first pair of barrel edges are connected to a respective barrel edge of the second pair of barrel edges by a sloped barrel edge.

[0025] In some forms, at least a portion of the sloped barrel edge is angled 30°-60° relative to the first and second barrel edges to which the sloped barrel edge is connected.

[0026] In some forms, at least a portion of the sloped barrel edge is curved.

[0027] In some forms, the inner barrel comprises; a handle end and an opposing engagement end; the engagement end of the inner barrel configured to define two opposing elongate apertures formed in a top wall region and bottom wall region respectively of the inner barrel, the elongate aperture in the top wall region of the inner barrel extending a discrete length along the longitudinal axis of the inner barrel from proximate an open engagement end of the outer barrel, the elongate aperture bound at either end by the top wall region of the inner barrel, the elongate aperture in the top wall region configured to align with the elongate aperture of the outer barrel when the inner barrel is in the retracted position; the elongate aperture in the bottom wall region of the inner barrel extending a discrete length along the longitudinal axis of the inner barrel from the open engagement end of the inner barrel at a first end and bound by the bottom wall region of the inner barrel at an opposing second end of the elongate aperture, the inner barrel configured such that the elongate aperture in the bottom wall region aligns with the elongate aperture in the top wall region of the inner barrel; the opposing elongate apertures in the top wall region and bottom wall region of the inner barrel connected together along one longitudinal edge of each elongate aperture by a side aperture in a side wall of the inner barrel, a portion of the perimeter of the side aperture and elongate apertures defining a hook portion in the inner barrel wall proximate the engagement end of the inner barrel and creating a shaped recess in the engagement end of the inner barrel such that a portion of a fishing hook can enter through the side aperture of the inner barrel and be received by the elongate apertures in the top and bottom wall regions of the inner barrel. In some forms, the elongate aperture defined in the top wall region of the inner barrel is at least twice the length of the elongate aperture defined on the bottom wall region of the inner barrel.

[0028] In some forms, the hook portion of the inner barrel wall comprises at least one curved wall.

[0029] In some forms, the inner barrel is shaped to comprise a substantially straight edge at a distal surface of the engagement end of the inner barrel.

[0030] In some forms, the outer barrel is configured to define one or more elongate channels in the outer barrel to enable connection of a handle member to the inner barrel through the elongate channel.

[0031] In some forms the device is configured to; contact and at least partially surround a shaft of the hook within the inner barrel; enable retraction of the inner barrel within the outer barrel such that the retraction of the inner barrel rotates the shaft of the hook along the longitudinal axis of the inner and outer barrels; contact and at least partially surround the shaft of the hook in at least a portion of the outer barrel as the inner barrel is retracted; and retain the hook within a portion of the inner and outer barrels once the inner barrel is fully retracted.

[0032] In some forms, when the inner barrel is fully retracted, the device is configured to lock the hook within the inner and outer barrels, with at least a portion of the hook shaft retained within the inner barrel and outer barrel.

[0033] According to a further aspect of the technology, there is provided a method for the rotation and removal of a hook from a fish using the hook rotation and removal as described above, the method comprising the steps of: contacting and at least partially surrounding a shaft of the hook within the inner barrel; retracting the inner barrel within the outer barrel such that the retraction of the inner barrel rotates the shaft of the hook along the longitudinal axis of the inner and outer barrels; receiving at least a portion of the shaft of the hook in at least a portion of the outer barrel as the inner barrel is retracted; retaining the hook within a portion of the inner and outer barrels once the inner barrel is fully retracted; applying a pulling force to the hook rotation and removal device away from the retained hook until the retained hook is dislodged from the fish.

[0034] Further aspects of the technology, which should be considered in all its novel aspects, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading of the following description which provides at least one example of a practical application of the technology.

[0035] 6. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] One or more embodiments of the technology will be described below by way of example only, and without intending to be limiting, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0037] Figure 1 shows a hook rotation and removal device in one form of the technology;

[0038] Figure 2 shows two cross sections A-A and B-B of the hook rotation and removal device in one form of the technology;

[0039] Figure 3 shows the engagement end of the hook removal and rotation device with the inner barrel in an extended position;

[0040] Figure 4 shows the engagement end of the hook removal and rotation device with the inner barrel in a retracted position;

[0041] Figure 5A shows a side view of the outer barrel in one form of the technology;

[0042] Figure 5B shows a top view of the outer barrel in one form of the technology;

[0043] Figure 5C shows a side view of the outer barrel in one form of the technology;

[0044] Figure 5D shows a bottom view of the outer barrel in one form of the technology;

[0045] Figure 5E shows a perspective view of the outer barrel in one form of the technology; Figures 6A shows a side of the inner barrel in one form of the technology;

[0046] Figure 6B shows a top view of the inner barrel in one form of the technology;

[0047] Figure 6C shows a bottom view of the inner barrel in one form of the technology;

[0048] Figure 6D shows a side view of the inner barrel in one form of the technology;

[0049] Figure 6E shows a perspective view of the inner barrel in one form of the technology;

[0050] Figure 7 shows the hook rotation and removal device in an extended position with a hook shaft located within the inner barrel;

[0051] Figure 8 shows the hook rotation and removal device in a retracted position with the hook rotated and the device in a retracted position;

[0052] Figure 9 shows the rotational movement of a hook as seen during use of the device of the present technology;

[0053] Figure 10 shows a partial cross section the hook rotation and removal device with the handle compressed and released;

[0054] Figures 11A 11 E show the hook rotation and removal device moving from an extended position with a hook received from one direction within the inner barrel to a retracted position with the hook received within the outer barrel;

[0055] Figures 12A 12C shows the hook rotation and removal device moving from an extended position with a hook received from a second direction within the inner barrel to a retracted position with the hook received within the outer barrel;

[0056] Figure 13 shows a commonly used fish hook suitable for use with the current technology; and Figure 14 shows the hook rotation and removal device in another form of the technology.

[0057] 7. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0058] The successful removal of a fish hook when angling can significantly affect the survival of discarded line-caught fish. In additional, quick and efficient removal of a hook from caught fish reduces both the risk of injury to the angler, and unnecessary injury to the fish itself as the hook is being removed.

[0059] Fish hooks are designed to be effectively embedded into a the side of a fish's mouth, or deeper within the body if the full hook is swallowed, and they are then purposefully difficult to remove due to the one-directional barb located at the point of the hook bend. The anatomy of a typical fish hook can be seen in Figure 9. When swallowed, the fish hook typical orients such that the eye of the hook is pointing towards the mouth of the fish. Effective removal requires the hook to be rotated up 180 degrees, so the eye of the hook points away from the mouth of the fish, freeing the barb and when a pulling force is then applied to the hook via the hook removal device, the hook is easily removed from the fish. The hook rotation and removal device of the present technology enables the rotation of the hook and the subsequent hook removal by applying a pulling force to the device. The design of the device enables the hook to be located, rotated and locked into the rotated position before applying force to the line for an efficient hook extraction.

[0060] The device of the present technology is adaptable for use with a range of different hook shapes and sizes, from smaller hook used for snapper fishing (for example), through to larger curved hooks or circle hooks. In situations where engagement of the hook occurs, but rotation is limited or obstructed due to either the position of the hook or the engagement location of the removal device, the hook removal device of the current technology may engage and lock the hook without rotation, enabling the user to apply a pushing force to the hook via the hook removal device, dislodging the hook and thereby allowing removal using a second technique.

[0061] For the purposes of this description, the term "barrel" as used herein describes the elongate body(s) of the device and should be taken to encompass an elongate body have a range of different cross-sectional shapes, including, but not limited to circular, square, rectangular, oval or hexagonal for example. Regardless of cross-sectional shape, inner barrel 200 must be shaped such that it is receivable and slidable within the outer barrel 100. As such, in most forms, the inner and outer barrels are likely to have the same or similar cross-sectional shape, preferably circular.

[0062] One form of the device will be discussed in further detail below, but is not intended to be limiting. Variations to the handle design and operation and component size may vary without departing from the overall scope of the technology.

[0063] 7.1. Hook Rotation and Removal Device

[0064] The hook rotation and removing device 1000 in one form of the technology is shown in detail in Figures 1 - 14. Figure 1 shows one form of the device 1000 comprising outer barrel 100, inner barrel 200 and handle portion 300, device 1000 in an extended position with handle portion 300 unengaged. As first cross bar 310 and second cross bar 320 of handle portion 300 are biased together, inner barrel 200 slidably retracts within outer barrel 100, allowing for retraction of a fishing hook captured within the engagement end 210 of the inner barrel 200.

[0065] A cross section of the device 1000 along axis A and B indicated in Figure 1 can be seen in Figure 2. The design of the handle mechanism for this technology will dictate how the inner and outer barrel of the device 1000 are actuated relative to each other. In the form shown, first cross bar 310 of handle portion 300 is fixedly connected to outer barrel 100 at or near one end of the outer barrel 100, distal from the engagement end 110 of the outer barrel 100 and engagement end 210 of inner barrel 200. A second cross bar 320 is fixedly connected to inner barrel 200, passing through an elongate channel (not shown) running longitudinally through opposing walls of outer barrel 100 such that inner barrel 200 is movable within outer barrel 100 by actuation of second cross bar 320.

[0066] A biasing member in the form of a spring 340 spans the longitudinal distance between first cross bar 310 and second cross bar 320, retaining inner barrel 200 in an extended position relative to the outer barrel 100 when the device 1000 is not in use. When a force is applied compressing the first and second cross bars together, inner barrel is pulled towards the handle end of the device, sliding within the outer barrel 100.

[0067] The retraction and extension of the inner barrel 200 within outer barrel 100 at the engagement ends of the device 1000 can be seen in further detail in Figures 3 and 4. 7. 1. 1. Outer Barrel

[0068] The outer barrel 100 connects at a first end 105 to handle portion 300 and includes an opposing engagement end 110. Engagement end 110 of outer barrel 100 can be seen in more detail in Figures 5A - 5E. Figure 5A shows a side view of engagement end 110 in one form of the technology, outer barrel 100 comprising a top wall region 115 and a bottom wall region 116. For the purposes of defining the geometry of the inner and outer barrels, the "top wall region" as indicated roughly defines substantially one "half-cylinder" of the barrel and "bottom wall region" roughly defines substantially the opposing "half-cylinder" of the barrel, the top and bottom wall regions together forming the cylindrical barrel. Side regions 125 and 126 are indicative of regions around where the top and bottom wall regions theoretically meet. In some likely forms, outer barrel 100 is formed from a single piece of material such as stainless steel, but this is not intended to be limiting. In use, the device 1000 may be used in a wide range of positions and orientations depending on the placement of the hook being removed and the technique of the user, and as such does not include a definitive "top" or "bottom" in terms of orientation during use.

[0069] Outer barrel 100 is at least partially hollow to enable inner barrel 200 to be retained within the hollow cavity of outer barrel 100, and move within the cavity to and from extended and retracted positions.

[0070] Top wall region 115 of outer barrel 100 comprises an elongate aperture 111 extending a discrete length along the longitudinal axis of the outer barrel 100 from an open engagement end 130 of the outer barrel 100 along a portion of the top wall region of the outer barrel 100 to an opposing end 131 of the elongate aperture 111. The length and width of elongate aperture 111 may change depending on the hook size device 1000 is designed to be used with. The longer elongate aperture 111 is the longer hook shaft it can receive. The length of elongate aperture 111 may also influence the degree of rotation of the hook within the device 1000, with a longer aperture providing further space for the hook to continue rotating, before the hook abuts top wall region 115.

[0071] In some preferred forms, the internal or external diameter of outer barrel 100 is 30mm - 10mm in width, preferably 18mm - 12mm, more preferably 16mm - 14mm. Walls of outer barrel 100 may be 1 mm - 3mm thick for example. The external diameter of outer barrel 100 is preferably 3mm - 7mm larger than the external diameter of inner barrel 200, providing space for the inner barrel 200 to easily slide within the hollow cavity of outer barrel 100. When placed within the hollow cavity 140 of outer barrel 100, the external wall 240 of the inner barrel 200 and internal wall 146 of outer barrel 100 are sized to be preferably spaced apart by 1 mm - 5mm, preferably 1 mm - 2mm.

[0072] In certain forms, the bottom wall region 116 of the outer barrel 100 extends from the engagement end 130 of the outer barrel further from the handle portion 300 than the top wall region 115, forming a tongue member 136. Tongue member 136 forms a support for inner barrel 200 when inner barrel 200 is in an extended position. In use, when a fishing hook is received by the recesses of extended inner barrel 200, as inner barrel 200 is retracted, an end portion 137 of tongue member 136 abuts the shaft of the fishing hook, facilitating rotation of the hook from a first position (for example as shown in Fig. 7) to a final rotated position (Fig. 8, 9) where the end of the shaft that is proximate the eye of the hook rests partially in and is supported by the tongue member 136, the longitudinal axis of the hook shaft substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the inner and outer barrels and the eye of the hook distal from the handle portion 300.

[0073] In certain forms tongue member 136 includes two or more spaced apart protrusions 138 and 139 at tongue member end portion 137, protrusions 138 and 139 defining a recess 133 therebetween. Recess 133 may be formed to be wide enough to receive the shaft of a fishing hook, aiding in alignment of the hook within inner barrel 100 and outer barrel 100 and assisting in locking hook into position within inner and outer barrels as the inner barrel 200 is retracted. In other forms, tongue member 136 includes a recess 133 in tongue member end portion 137 to receive a fishing hook shaft and the recess may be shaped such that protrusions 138 and 139 are formed, or may take other shapes.

[0074] Outer barrel 100 comprises barrel edges 150 at the engagement end 110 that are formed by the ends of the outer barrel walls, the barrel edges extending on each side of the outer barrel from region or corner 151 at the end of the elongate aperture 111 at open engagement end 130, to an outside edge of tongue member 152 distal handle portion 300 of device 1000. Barrel edges 150 may be straight, sloped, stepped or curved at one or more regions. In one form as shown In Figs. 5A - 5E, barrel edges comprise a sloped region extending from corner 151 then flatten out to run substantially parallel with tongue 136. . In use during hook rotation, sloped barrel edges of the outer barrel 100aid in alignment of the fish hook during rotation of the hook as the inner barrel 200 is retracted, directing and smoothly guiding the hook shaft into elongate aperture 111. A first end 105 of outer barrel 100 opposing engagement end 110 is connected to a first crossbar 310 of handle portion 300. In some forms of the device using the handle mechanism described herein, the outer barrel 100 includes two opposing elongate channels (not shown) extending through a portion of the barrel walls proximate the first end 105 and centre of barrel 100. These channels allow for second cross bar 320 to connect directly to inner barrel 200 and slide longitudinally within outer barrel 100, along the length of the elongate channels. In other forms not shown, the second cross bar 320 may be single sided, and therefore only a single elongate channel would be required in the outer barrel wall to allow engagement of the single sided handle to the inner barrel 200.

[0075] 7. 1.2. Inner Barrel

[0076] Inner barrel 200 is situated within hollow cavity 140 of outer barrel 100 and can be seen in detail in Figures 6A to 6E. Inner barrel 200 includes a first handle end 205 and opposing engagement end 210.

[0077] Engagement end 210 of inner barrel 200 is shaped to define two opposing elongate apertures. Top elongate aperture 211 is formed within a top region 215 of inner barrel 200 and bottom elongate aperture 221 is formed within opposing bottom region 216, each elongate aperture 211, 221 is a discrete length and width that corresponds to a particular size or range of fish hook sizes and extend along the longitudinal axis of the inner barrel, and transversely aligned with each other. In some forms, top elongate aperture 211 is longer than bottom elongate aperture 221 in order to receive a larger portion of a hook shaft. In some forms top elongate aperture 221 is a similar width and length as top elongate aperture 111 of outer barrel 100, and inner barrel 200 is aligned within outer barrel 100 such that top elongate aperture 211 of inner barrel 200 is longitudinally aligned with top elongate aperture 111 of outer barrel 100. In use, when inner barrel 200 is in a retracted position, top elongate aperture 211 is positioned directly below top elongate aperture 111, allowing the shaft of a fish hook to be simultaneous received within both elongate apertures.

[0078] Top elongate aperture 211 is bound at opposing ends 212 and 213 by top wall region 215 of the inner barrel. Opposing bottom elongate aperture 221 is bound at a first end 222 by bottom wall region 216 and open at opposing end 223 to open end 230 of inner barrel 200. Each of the top and bottom elongate apertures 211 and 221 are connected together along one longitudinal edge of each elongate aperture by a side aperture 250, such that a single shaped recess is defined by the perimeters of the apertures in inner barrel 200, the shaped recess adapted to receive and rotate the shaft of a fishing hook during use. The presence of side aperture 250 and bottom elongate aperture 221 that extends to the open end 230 on inner barrel creates a hooking portion 255 proximate the open end 230 of the inner barrel 200.

[0079] Hooking portion 255 may be shaped to include at least radially curved hook 257 created by the curved wall of the inner barrel 200 and hooking portion 255 may include one or more sloped, curved, notched, stepped or straight edges. In some forms, hooking portion 255 includes a sloped edge 256. In some forms, the slope of edge 256 may be at a complementary angle to sloped barrel edge 155 of outer barrel 100, such that as inner barrel is retracted, sloped edge 256 slides inside and adjacent sloped outer barrel edge 156, such that top elongate aperture 111 is completely bound by the inner and outer barrel walls.

[0080] Hooking portion 255 is further shaped to extend radially such that curved hook 257 or other part of hooking portion is received within and overlaps tongue portion 136 as inner barrel 200 is partially retracted. In use, this overlap ensures that any fishing hook received within the shaped recess of the inner barrel 200 is locked within the recess 133 of the outer barrel 100 as soon as the inner barrel is retracted enough such the hooking portion 255 is adjacent tongue member 136. As such, the width or size of the hooking portion 255 may and curved hook 257 may change to ensure the locking of the fishing hook within the shaped recess occurs early in the retraction process to ensure a successful removal.

[0081] 7. 1.3. Handle Portion

[0082] The device 1000 of the present technology may comprise a handle portion 300 that enables the movement of inner barrel 200 within the outer barrel 100 between a retracted position, where the engagement end 230 of inner barrel 200 is fully retracted within the outer barrel 100, preferably such that no part of the inner barrel 200 extends outside the outer barrel 100, and a fully extended position, where some or all of the engagement end 230 of inner barrel 200 extends outward from the tongue member of the outer barrel 100. In other forms, the inner barrel 100 may be fixed, and outer barrel 100 is activated by the handle to move relative to the inner barrel 200. The handle portion 300 be configured to include a biasing means, such that activation of the biasing means enables the movement of the inner and outer barrels relative to each other. In some forms, including that as seen in Figures 1 and 2 and 10, handle portion 300 comprises a double T-shaped spring handle portion 300 including a first cross-bar 310 perpendicular to and mounted at a terminal end 160 of outer barrel 100, and a second cross bar 320 parallel to and spaced apart from first cross bar 310. Second cross bar 320 is spaced closer to engagement end 110 of outer barrel 100 a distance from first cross bar 310 such that a user can effectively grasp both the first and second cross bars simultaneously with one hand. For example, this distance may be between 50mm - 150mm.

[0083] In the form shown, second cross bar 320 is fixedly connected to inner barrel 200, through an elongate channel (not shown) extending through opposing sides of outer barrel 100 in the handle end 105 of outer barrel 100.

[0084] Second cross bar 320 may be connected to sheath 330, sheath 330 surrounding and slidably engaging outer barrel 100, such that sheath 300 is moveable over the outer surface of outer barrel 100.

[0085] Biasing member 340 in the form of a spring is mounted between and spans the distance between first cross bar 310 and second cross bar 320, surrounding inner and outer barrels, or in other variations, mounted inside the outer barrel. In use, a compression force is applied between the first and second cross bars, typically through a squeezing hand grip, compressing spring 340. As spring 340 is compressed, second cross bar 320 is drawn towards first cross bar 310, drawing inner barrel 200 into outer barrel 100. This movement retracts engagement end 230 of inner barrel 200 into the hollow cavity 140 of outer barrel 100. When the compression force is removed, spring 340 releases and inner barrel 200 moves back to the extended position.

[0086] Other handle formation, sizes and arrangements may be used to achieve a similar result, for example the distance between the first and second cross bars may be reduced or increased to cater for hands of different sizes. In some forms, the handle may have an "L" shaped arrangement, requiring the use to grasp the handle on a single side of the central barrel to activate.

[0087] A handle operation designed to move the inner and outer barrels relative to each other without a spring or biasing means is an alternative option for the handle operation, with the ability to lock and easily engage or disengage the cross-bar portions relative to each other. However, in practical use when attempting to engage the device with a hook within a fish, it may take multiple attempts to ensure the correct engagement, particularly with larger fish. In such situations, the presence of the biasing member ensures the handle is instantly reverts to a position ready to activate the hook engagement, allowing for multiple attempts in a short period of time.

[0088] 7.2. Use of Hook Rotation and Removal Device

[0089] Figures 7-9 demonstrate an example the use of the hook rotation and removal device 1000 in the extraction of a fishing hook from a fish. Typically, when a fish hook is swallowed by a fish, the orientation of the hook within the gut of a fish is such that the point of the hook is facing the fish's mouth or in this general direction. As such, pulling directly on the line to release the hook embeds the hook further into the fish, rather than releasing it. In some hook orientation situations, in order to successfully remove the hook while limiting damage to the fish, the hook needs to be rotated such that the hook points away from the fish mouth. When this orientation is achieved, a pulling force can be applied using the hook removal device and the hook can be withdrawn without the point and barb of the hook getting caught further. Often, this required rotation is substantially 180 degrees around an axis perpendicular to the shaft of the fish hook.

[0090] In situations where engagement of the hook by the removal device occurs, but rotation is limited or obstructed due to either the position of the hook or the engagement location of the removal device, the hook removal device of the current technology may engage and lock the hook without rotation, enabling the user to apply a pushing force to the hook via the hook removal device, dislodging the hook and thereby allowing removal using a second technique.

[0091] Referring to the form of the technology discussed above and shown in Figures 1 to 6, in use, a line caught fish may be hung by the fishing line such that the mouth of the fish is facing upward. Device 1000 is inserted into the mouth of the fish, with the fishing line pulled taut, following the trajectory of the fishing line to located the hook, and / or the hook may be visually located. Device 1000 is held by the handle portion 300 and inserted into the fish with inner barrel 200 in an extended position, device 1000 positioned to contact the shaft of the hook between the shaft and point of the hook, the shaft of the hook received within side aperture 250 of inner barrel 200. When received within side aperture 25, hook shaft lies within both top elongate aperture 211 and bottom elongate aperture 221 of inner barrel 200. The shaft may be received at approx. 90 degrees to the longitudinal axis of the barrel, or may be received at a range of angles from substantially 30 degrees through to 150 degrees from the longitudinal axis of the barrel. This will largely depend on the hook position, and the space the angler has to manoeuvre the device 1000 within the fish mouth. Figure 7 shows a hook shaft received within inner barrel 200.

[0092] Once the hook shaft has been located within inner barrel 200, the line is released to become slack, a compression force is applied to handle portion 300 and inner barrel 200 begins to retract within outer barrel 100, as seen in Figure 8. As retraction begins, the end 213 of top elongate aperture 211 pulls against the fish hook 400 shaft at a first abutment point, applying a first force to a first side of the fish hook 400 shaft to a beginning the rotation of the fish hook 400 shaft towards handle portion 300. As inner barrel 200 is retracted further, tongue member 137 of outer barrel 100 abuts the fish hook 400 shaft 410 at a second abutment point on an opposing second side of the hook, closer to the eye of the fish hook 400 than the first position, applying a second force in opposition to the first force, further causing the shaft 410 to rotate and pivot around a fulcrum created between the first and second abutment points. In examples where tongue member 137 comprises two protrusions 138 and 139, the second abutment point may be between the two protrusions 138 and 139, which further stabilises the fish hook shaft 410 during rotation.

[0093] As inner barrel 200 is retracted further within outer barrel 100, hooking portion 250 moves adjacent tongue member 137, preventing the fish hook 400 exiting the device by locking it within the shaped recess of the inner barrel. As the inner barrel is retracted still further, the fish hook 400 is further rotated such that fish hook shaft 410 is received within the elongate aperture 111 of the outer barrel and top elongate aperture 211 of the inner barrel. Hooking portion 255 is moved further up the outer barrel 100 towards handle portion 300, until hooking portion 250 effectively seals off elongate aperture 111 of the outer barrel and top elongate aperture 211 with the fish hook 400 positioned within, the point of the fish hook 400 facing the engagement end 230 of the outer barrel 100. Once the handle is fully compressed, the fish hook 400 is rotated and can then be removed from the fish by applying a pulling force to the device 1000, extracting the hook from the fish. The handle portion 300 remains in the compressed position throughout the hook extraction to ensure the correct hook position is maintained.

[0094] The rotational movement of the hook during the application of the above method is shown in Figure 7 where the hook is first received within the extended inner barrel 200. Figure 8 shows the final hook position following rotation of the hook and retraction of in the inner barrel 200 within the outer barrel 100, with the point to the fish hook 400 facing away from the device handle for easy removal.

[0095] Figure 9 further demonstrates the rotation movement of the hook using device 1000 and the final position of the hook lying within the hollow inner and outer barrels.

[0096] In use, the device 1000 may connect to fish hook 400 from a number of different angles and successfully rotate and position the hook for a successful removal. Figure 11A - E show the capture and rotation of fish hook 400 when a rear face 415 of shaft 410 is received within the side aperture 250 of inner barrel 200, with the point of the hook 420 spaced apart from the device 1000. In this extraction configuration, as inner barrel 200 is retracted into outer barrel 100, the hook is rotated through steps 11 A - 12D, eventually coming to rest with the shaft 410 moving through the elongate apertures 111 and 211, to finish lying longitudinally within the inner and outer barrels as see in in Figure 11 E, with point 420 oriented away from handle portion 300.

[0097] In other hook orientations shown in Figure 12A - 12C, hook shaft 410 can be captured on an inner face 430 of the shaft, with device 1000 inserting between the hook point 420 and hook shaft 410 to capture the hook as seen in Figure 12A. In this configuration, as inner barrel 200 is retracted, fish hook 400 rotates within the shaped recess of the inner barrel until shaft 410 is parallel with the longitudinal axis of the inner and out barrels. Further retraction of the inner barrel 200 moves the hook into final position as seen in Figure 1 1 E.

[0098] The ability to access the fishing hook from different angles allows for hooks to be successfully rotated and removed, regardless of how they have been embedded within a fish. The device of the present invention allows for an in-line removal of a hook, enabling the hook removal device to be inserted into a small opening in one direction, the hook engaged, rotated and removed by withdrawing the device along the same axis as it was inserted.

[0099] 7.3. Other Remarks

[0100] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

[0101] The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications cited above and below, if any, are herein incorporated by reference. Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world.

[0102] The technology may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

[0103] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

[0104] It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the present technology.

[0105] Aspects of the present technology have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

8. CLAIMS1. A hook rotation and removal device for assisting in removal of a hook from a fish, the hook rotation and removal device comprising an outer barrel, and an inner barrel housed at least partially within the outer barrel, the inner barrel movable within the outer barrel between an extended position, wherein at least a portion of the inner barrel extends from the outer barrel, and a retracted position, wherein the a greater portion of the inner barrel is retained within the outer barrel compared to the extended position; the inner barrel configured to engage a portion of a hook when the inner barrel is in the extended position; and the outer barrel configured to define at least one elongate aperture in a wall of the outer barrel, the elongate aperture configured to engage and secure a portion of the hook engaged by the inner barrel when the inner barrel is in the retracted position.

2. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 1, wherein the outer barrel and inner barrel are connected to a handle portion, the handle portion including a biasing member operable such that when the biasing member is activated or released by the handle, the inner barrel and / or outer barrel move relative to one another between the extended position and the retracted position.

3. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the outer barrel further comprises; a handle end and an opposing engagement end, the handle end of the outer barrel configured with a handle portion; the engagement end of the outer barrel including an elongate aperture formed in a top wall region of the outer barrel, the elongate aperture extending a discrete length along a longitudinal axis of the outer barrel from an open engagement end of the outer barrel along a portion of a top wall region of the outer barrel; and a bottom wall region opposing the top wall region, the bottom wall region of the outer barrel extending from the engagement end of the outer barrel further away from the handle than the top wall region, forming a tongue member.

4. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 3, wherein the tongue member of the outer barrel comprises two or more protrusions extending from the tongue away from the handle end of the outer barrel along the longitudinal axis of the outer barrel, the two or more protrusions configured to define a hook receiving space therebetween to receive a portion of a fishing hook.

5. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 4, wherein the hook rotation and removal device comprises two protrusions, the two protrusions configured such that the hook receiving space defined therebetween is widest at the engagement end of the outer barrel distal from the handle end.

6. The hook rotation and removal device of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the outer barrel comprises a pair of first barrel edges each defining opposing elongate edges of the elongate aperture in the top wall region of the outer barrel, and a pair of second barrel edges, each defining opposing outside edges of the tongue member of the outer barrel, the first pair of barrel edges and second pair of barrel edges longitudinally parallel but offset from each other.

7. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 6, wherein each barrel edge of the first pair of barrel edges are connected to a respective barrel edge of the second pair of barrel edges by a sloped barrel edge.

8. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 7, wherein at least a portion of each sloped barrel edge is angled 30°-60° relative to the first and second barrel edges to which the sloped barrel edge is connected.

9. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 8, wherein at least a portion of each sloped barrel edge is curved.

10. The hook rotation and removal device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the inner barrel comprises; a handle end and an opposing engagement end; the engagement end of the inner barrel configured to define two opposing elongate apertures formed in a top wall region and bottom wall region respectively of the inner barrel, the elongate aperture in the top wall region of the inner barrel extending a discrete length along a longitudinal axis of the inner barrel from proximate an open engagement end of the outer barrel, the elongate aperture bound at either end by the top wall region of the inner barrel and the elongate aperture in the top wall regionconfigured to align with the elongate aperture of the outer barrel when the inner barrel is in the retracted position; the elongate aperture in the bottom wall region of the inner barrel extending a discrete length along the longitudinal axis of the inner barrel from the open engagement end of the inner barrel at a first end and bound by the bottom wall region of the inner barrel at an opposing second end of the elongate aperture, the inner barrel configured such that the elongate aperture in the bottom wall region aligns with the elongate aperture in the top wall region of the inner barrel; and the opposing elongate apertures in the top wall region and bottom wall region of the inner barrel connected together along one longitudinal edge of each elongate aperture by a side aperture in a side wall of the inner barrel, a portion of a perimeter of the side aperture and elongate apertures defining a hook portion proximate the engagement end of the inner barrel and creating a shaped recess in the engagement end of the inner barrel such that a portion of a fishing hook can enter through the side aperture of the inner barrel and be received by the elongate apertures in the top and bottom wall regions of the inner barrel.

11. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 10, wherein the elongate aperture defined on the top wall region of the inner barrel is at least twice a length of the elongate aperture defined on the bottom wall region of the inner barrel.

12. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 10 or 11, wherein the hook portion comprises at least one curved wall.

13. The hook rotation and removal device of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the inner barrel is shaped to comprise a substantially straight edge at a distal surface of the engagement end of the inner barrel.

14. The hook rotation and removal device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the outer barrel is configured to define at least one elongate channel in the outer barrel to enable connection of a handle member to the inner barrel through the at least one elongate channel.

15. The hook rotation and removal device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, the hook rotation and removal device configured to; contact and at least partially surround a hook shaft within the inner barrel;enable retraction of the inner barrel within the outer barrel such that the retraction of the inner barrel rotates the shaft of the hook along the longitudinal axis of the inner and outer barrels; contact and at least partially surround the hook shaft in at least a portion of the outer barrel as the inner barrel is retracted; and retain the hook within a portion of the inner and outer barrels once the inner barrel is fully retracted.

16. The hook rotation and removal device of claim 15, wherein when the inner barrel is fully retracted, the hook rotation and removal device is configured to lock the hook within the inner and outer barrels, with at least a portion of the hook shaft retained within the inner barrel and outer barrel.

17. A method for the rotation and removal of a hook from a fish using the hook rotation and removal device of any one of claims 1 to 16, the method comprising the steps of: contacting and at least partially surrounding a hook shaft within the inner barrel; retracting the inner barrel within the outer barrel such that the retraction of the inner barrel rotates the hook shaft along the longitudinal axis of the inner and outer barrels; receiving at least a portion of the hook shaft in at least a portion of the outer barrel as the inner barrel is retracted; retaining the hook within a portion of the inner and outer barrels once the inner barrel is fully retracted; applying a pulling force to the hook rotation and removal device away from the retained hook until the retained hook is dislodged from the fish.

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