off the hook
'Off the hook' aims to replace existing fishing lures that use hooks in order to help reduce fish harm and make lures more sustainable and empathetic by prioritising fish as users.
The Ask
Traditional fishing lures rely on sharp metal hooks that puncture and injure fish, causing unnecessary harm even in catch-and-release situations. These lures also contribute to ongoing environmental waste, with many made from non-biodegradable materials that end up polluting waterways. There is a lack of lure systems that consider fish welfare, user empathy, and ecological impact.
The Design
Off the Hook reimagines the fishing lure as a harm-reduced, sustainable alternative that prioritises fish as users. The design replaces conventional hooks with a non-penetrative capture mechanism that safely secures the fish without injury, while using environmentally conscious materials to minimise long-term impact. The result is a more empathetic, responsible lure system that supports both recreational fishing and aquatic wellbeing.
the development
The project began with research into fish physiology, angler behaviour, and existing lure mechanisms to understand where harm occurs. I explored a wide range of non-penetrative capture concepts, iterating through sketches, foam models, and CAD explorations to refine form and function. Multiple prototypes were 3D-printed to test buoyancy, movement, and how fish might interact with the lure. This iterative process helped converge on a mechanism that balances usability for anglers with empathy for aquatic life.
the takeaway
This project reinforced the importance of designing beyond the human user and considering the broader ecological system. By reframing fish as primary stakeholders, I learned how industrial design can challenge entrenched conventions to create more ethical, harm-reduced alternatives. It also strengthened my prototyping skills and deepened my interest in sustainable, systems-oriented design.
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