For many predator fish anglers, there is one moment when everything comes together: the landing of the fish. You felt the bite, endured the fight, and then it lies there; a Pike with power, teeth, and character. Exactly at that moment, the gill grip comes into play. Not as a trick, but as a skill focused on control, safety, and respect for the fish.
In this blog, you will learn not only how to perform the gill grip, but especially when, why, and what you better not do. Because that is the difference between just copying something and really learning to fish well.
What exactly is the gill grip?
The gill grip is a way to firmly hold a Pike through the gill opening, so you can safely unhook it and possibly lift it briefly. The goal is simple: maximum control, minimal damage.
But don’t be mistaken, it is not a “standard procedure.” It is a technique you consciously apply, depending on the situation.
When do you use the gill grip (and when not)?
A common mistake is that anglers always want to apply the gill grip. That is not necessary, and sometimes even unwise.
Use it when:
- The Pike is large enough for a stable grip
- You can clearly see where the hooks are
- You have sufficient control over the fish
Do not use when:
- The hook is deep or unfavorably positioned
- The fish is small and restless
- You doubt your grip
In those cases, a Landing Net or neck grip is often a better choice.
Step by step: how to correctly perform the gill grip
1. Look first, then act
Before you do anything: check where the hooks are. This prevents your hand from coming into contact with treble hooks, a classic beginner’s mistake.
2. Carefully slide under the gill cover
Slide your fingers just a little bit under the gill cover. Deeper is not better; in fact, it increases the chance of damage to the gill arches.
3. Move forward, not inward
Slide your fingers towards the mouth opening. You follow the inside of the gill without touching the vulnerable structures.
4. Make a firm but controlled grip
Place your thumb under the chin and gently clamp the fish. No brute force; grip comes from position, not squeezing.
5. Always support with your other hand
Never lift the Pike only by the gill grip. Support the body, especially with larger fish. This prevents damage to the jaw and gill structure.
The biggest mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Even experienced anglers make mistakes. These are the most common:
Going too deep into the gill
→ Can damage the gill arches and seriously injure the fish
Not providing support
→ Causes overload of the jaw
Acting too hastily
→ Increases the chance of injuries to you and the fish
Blindly trusting gloves
→ Less feeling = less control
The common thread? Calmness and precision always win over speed.
Large vs. small Pike: a world of difference
Interestingly, a large Pike is often easier to handle than a small one.
- Large Pike: more room for your hand, often calmer
- Small Pike: less grip, more unexpected movements
With smaller specimens, caution is even more important, and sometimes another landing method is simply better.
Safety: for you and the Pike
The gill grip has two sides. When done well, it is a fish-friendly technique. When done poorly, it can cause damage.
For the fish:
- Do not touch the gill arches
- Limit time out of the water
- Check if the gills move well when releasing
For yourself:
- Watch out for treble hooks
- Always expect a sudden movement
- Work calmly and controlled
Yes, a scratch or cut sometimes happens, but that does not mean you should be reckless.
Another perspective: less lifting, more in the water
More and more anglers choose to unhook Pike as much as possible in the water. That is often the safest option:
- The fish is supported by the water
- Less stress and damage
- More control during unexpected movements
The gill grip remains useful but does not always have to be the end point.
Finally: skill over showing off
The gill grip is not proof of “how tough you are,” but of how carefully you handle your catch. You see the difference not only in your technique but also in how quickly and neatly you let a fish swim away again.
Practice helps, but awareness makes the difference.
So the next time you land a Pike: take that extra second. Look, think, and act, in that order.