Planning your next fishing trip? before you pack your fishing gear, let’s talk about the TSA rules for fishing hooks, and if you can bring fishing hooks on planes.
You can bring small fishing hooks through the security checkpoint, and in carry-on baggage, however; larger fishing hooks are not guaranteed that they will pass through the security checkpoint, it is better to pack large fishing hooks in checked baggage with other gear.
This post covers everything you need to know about bringing fishing hooks and related gear on a plane.
Can you pack fishing hooks in your carry-on?
The TSA permits small fishing Lures / hooks in your carry-on. However, it’s not always guaranteed that they will make it through the security checkpoint.
Why? It depends on the size, and some TSA agents are pretty strict when it comes to these types of small sharp items.
Larger hooks will be flagged as a safety risk, similar to scissors with blades longer than 4 inches.
Just imagine an angry passenger waving a large fishing hook in their hand.
If you’ve seen the movie I Know What You Did Last Summer, you know exactly what I mean.
An unwanted, fishy situation.
This is a screenshot from the @AskTSA team on X:
Jason asked the TSA customer service if he can bring size 4/0 fishing hooks in his carry-on bag.
The AskTSA team replied that “large fishing hooks such as those used in deep sea fishing, must be packed in checked bags”
Can you bring fishing hooks in your checked bag?
Packing fishing hooks in your checked bag is the safer option.
According to the TSA, large hooks should be “sheathed, securely wrapped, and packed in your checked luggage.” This minimizes the chance of injury and ensures compliance with airport rules.
While there’s no exact size limit for “large” fishing hooks, items used for deep-sea fishing will likely be considered too big for carry-on bags.
To play it safe, pack all fishing hooks in your checked luggage.
Can you bring fishing hooks on international flights?
Flying internationally? TSA rules won’t apply outside the U.S. Each country has its own security guidelines, so pack fishing hooks of any size in your checked luggage to avoid confiscation.
It will be a bright idea if you also contact your airline and confirm with them, and research the destination’s regulations to ensure smooth travels.
Airline policies on fishing gear.
Most major U.S airlines like Delta, United, American Airlines, and Southwest, allow fishing hooks in both carry-on and checked bags, provided they follow TSA guidelines.
Remember that airlines emphasize that sharp items must be “securely wrapped.”, especially in checked baggage, so security officers and luggage handlers won’t get injured when handling your luggage.
How to pack fishing hooks safely?
- Use a fishing hook container: You can find affordable containers that will keep your hooks secure and organized.
- Wrap them securely: Use protective sheaths, a piece of cloth or padding to prevent any injuries for luggage handlers.
- Label your container: Clearly mark it as “Fishing Hooks” to avoid misunderstandings at security.
Can you bring other fishing gear on a plane?
- Fishing Rods: You can pack fishing rods in carry-on or checked bags, but check your airline’s size for carry-on and checked baggage, you can read more about traveling fishing rods here.
- Fishing Reels: You can pack fishing reels in carry-on or checked luggage without any restrictions.
- Fishing Pliers: You can bring fishing pliers in carry-on if under 7 inches; otherwise, pack them in checked luggage.
Final thoughts on taking fishing hooks on planes.
You can bring fishing hooks on a plane checked baggage without any restrictions, However; small size fishing hooks are generally allowed in carry-on baggage.
I would recommend packing any hooks in checked baggage when possible, to avoid any issues at the airport.
I hope this helps.
Safe travels and happy fishing.
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