Nautical Term: Pelican hook

Definition of Pelican hook

A pelican hook is a type of hinged, double-pronged hook. It is designed with a ring that holds the hook closed. The pelican hook provides a quick release function for objects it holds.

For instance, when fishermen catch a large fish, they can secure it to the pelican hook using a rope or a lanyard. Once they have secured the fish to the pelican hook, they can easily release it back into the water when they are done fishing.

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