A hook threader is a device used to thread fishing line through the eye of a hook more easily. There are several variations of the hook threader available online and in fine tackle stores, however, there is a very inexpensive alternative that may already be in most homes. Commonly made of plastic, the hook threader has a place to hold the hook — some even have small magnets to aid the fisherman in this task —, while a funnel-like depression is manufactured into the threader on the reverse side. As the hook is being held on the threader, the fishing line is threaded through the depression and directly through the eye of the fish hook.
Some people have difficulty in seeing the very small eye of a fishing hook without magnification. This can be due to poor eyesight in general, old age or a low-light condition. By using a hook threader, the fishing line can be easily passed through the smallest of hook eyes with ease, even in total darkness. Several versions of the hook threader are sold through tackle stores and fishing supply houses around the world and many people that use them highly recommend them to their friends. Some versions of the threader include other features, such as hook sharpeners and knot tiers.
Some of the better-made hook threader designs incorporate a guide for several different-sized hooks to be used on the same threader. These are marketed as full-functioning threaders. Fishermen who struggle with very small hook eyes, such as fly fishermen and pan fish anglers, may struggle with passing the fishing line through the small eyes of their tackle. Many ice fishermen also struggle not only with passing very thin-diameter fishing line through the smallest of fishing hook eyes, but trying to complete the task with very cold hands.
Using a hook threader can make this struggle go away and leave the angler less frustrated and with more time to catch fish. There may be a solution for this threading difficulty right under the angler's nose, in his or her own home. Small needle threaders used to thread sewing needles can be adapted to thread fishing hooks. By passing the tiny wire guide of the needle threader through the eye of the hook, the fishing line can then be passed through the wire guide of the threader. Once the hook threader is pulled back out of the fishing hook, the line is drawn through the eye and the hook is threaded.