Hooked!

[Wispy68]

How the hell do fishermen 'know' that the hook doesn't hurt the fish?

[sft42]

they don't. fish are cold blooded and i think i remember this being given as the reason but as they still have a nervous system so must therefor feel pain. I could never figure this one out myself (even though i've fished a bit).

[andy hughes]

A fisherman friend of mine advises that if the hook hurt the fish, it would be keen to take the path of least resistence, and allow itself to by reeled in. the reality is that fish fight like hell, and pull as hard as they can. I don't know if this is a valid argument - I guess if they made a noise it would give us more idea.

[boognish76]

That 'path of least resistance' theory doesn't make sense at all. Cats and rabbits, etc. caught in traps don't just sit there waiting to be rescued - they will do themselves further damage in an attempt to get away. Why would a fish, or any creature in the wild act differently? Your friend is just trying to rationalise his participation in a blood sport.

[xyzzyplugh]

The hook does hurt the fish. Lead weights hurt swans too. Even fishing line hurts if you're a duck and get it trapped round your neck so you can't breathe and your eyes start bulging and you realise your in serious trouble.. like if you had your mouth and nostrils sealed with duct tape. Tough sport, fishing.

[Janetx]

I am not convinced by that cold-blooded theory either and I do try to drown them very quickly and never cook anything alive alive-O.