Bends Mender Deflator Needle

The Bends Mender Deflator Needle is a must have tool for summer time fishing.  A fish can arrive at the surface bloated - especially when caught in deep water.  In effect, the fish has "the bends."  If released it cannot descend into the water properly unless the air bladder is deflated.  Use your Bends Mender to save the fish's life. 

Method 1:  (Recommended for beginners)

• Hold the fish by the lower lip. 
• Looking down into the fish's mouth, locate the two crushers, usually pink - above the throat. 
• Holding the Bends Mender parallel to the fish's lateral line, insert the tip gently between the crushers until you hear a hissing sound (about 1/2").  The noise is the air bladder deflating. 
• Hold the whole fish and the Bends Mender under the water, which will allow you to see the air being released in the form of bubbles.  Do not squeeze the fish.  Allow it to equalize itself until the air bubbles stop releasing. 

Method 2: 

• Place the fish on either side on a stable, cool, wet surface. 
• Locate the fish's pectoral fin- the "side fin".  Allow it to lie flat in its natural position against the fish's side.  Locate the "corner" of the fin closest to the tail.  From this point, count 3-4 scales toward the tail (this will be 5-7 scales below the lateral line. 
• Holding the Bends Mender at a 45 degree angle, gently insert the tip under the scale pointing toward the fish's mouth until you hear a hissing sound (about 1/2").  You should hear the air bladder deflating. 
• Hold the whole fish and Bends Mender under the water, which will allow you to see the air being released in the form of bubbles.  Do not squeeze the fish.  Allow it to equalize until the air bubbles stop releasing.