What Is a Boat Hook? The Complete Guide for Every Boater

If you’ve ever asked yourself “what is a boat hook?” or “how to use a boat hook when docking?”, you’re not alone. Boat hooks are one of the most searched-for and essential boating accessories. They’re simple, but they solve big problems - docking, mooring, retrieving, and even trailering.

In this guide, we’ll cover what a boat hook is used for, how to use a boat hook properly, what size boat hook you need, and why the Extend-A-Reach Boat Hook is the best choice for boaters who value durability, reach, and safety.

What Is a Boat Hook?

A boat hook is a long pole with a curved hook at the end, often with a handle or grip, used to push, pull, or retrieve objects around your boat.

The most common uses are:

• Docking: Hooking a cleat, piling, or ring to guide your boat safely.

• Mooring: Attaching or retrieving lines from a buoy.

• Retrieving: Grabbing ropes, fenders, or items that have fallen into the water.

• Pushing Off: Preventing your boat from hitting the dock or another vessel.

• Trailering: Helping hook your boat up to a trailer without climbing or stretching.

Think of the boat hook as your “extra arm” on the water - it lets you reach without leaning dangerously overboard.

What Is a Boat Hook Used For?

When people search “what is boat hook used for?” the answer is simple: it’s a multipurpose safety and convenience tool.

• Docking in windy conditions

• Grabbing a mooring buoy

• Pulling your boat onto a trailer

• Pushing away from obstacles

• Helping someone in the water

👉 Pro Tip: A telescopic boat hook with handle is the most versatile, since you can extend it for reach and retract it for storage.

How to Use a Boat Hook

One of the most popular searches is “boat hook how to use”. Here’s the step-by-step:

1. Grip the handle firmly - keep your hands dry if possible.

2. Extend the pole if it’s a telescoping extension pole.

3. Aim the hook at the object (cleat, rope, buoy).

4. Pull or push gently - let the hook do the work.

5. Retract for storage after use.

Never overreach. Keep your body inside the boat and let the hook’s length do the reaching.

How to Use a Boat Hook When Docking

Docking is the #1 time boaters reach for a hook. Here’s how:

• As you approach, extend the hook.
  

• Use the tip to grab a dock cleat, post, or ring.
  

• Gently pull your boat in - don’t yank.
  

• Hook the dock line and pass it through.
  

Always approach slowly and let the hook guide, not force, your boat.

How to Hook Boat Up to Trailer

Yes - the ultimate boat hook can even help you trailer your boat. If you’ve searched “how to hook boat up to trailer”, here’s the method:

1. Extend the hook and use it to guide your bow line.

2. Hook the winch strap or rope without climbing forward.

3. Pull the boat into position before tightening.

A telescopic hook makes trailering far safer by reducing the need to stretch over slippery surfaces.

What Size Boat Hook Do I Need?

If you’re wondering “what size a traditional boat hook do I need?”, the answer depends on your boat:

• Small boats (kayaks, dinghies, skiffs): 4–6 ft

• Medium boats (pontoon, fishing, speedboats): 6–12 ft

• Large boats or sailboats: 12–30 ft (telescopic recommended)

Choose a telescopic hook with an adjustable length, that covers multiple sizes - Extend-A-Reach extends up to 30 ft, but stores compactly.

What Is the Best Boat Hook?

The best boat hook is one that is sturdy, extendable, and easy to handle. Here’s why the Extend-A-Reach Boat Hook is the top choice:

• Telescopic Reach: Up to 30 feet for docking, mooring, or retrieving.
  

• Strong Yet Lightweight: Aerospace-grade aluminum won’t bend or rust.
  

• Comfort Grip Handle: Non-slip, even when wet.
  

• Multi-Tool Compatible: Switch the hook for brushes, nets, or squeegees.
  

Cheap hooks may bend or slip at the worst time. Invest in a hook that’s built for real boating conditions.

FAQs: Quick Answers for Every Boater

Q: How long should a boat hook be?
A: At least as long as your boat’s beam (width). For versatility, choose a telescopic hook.

Q: Can you use a boat hook for safety?
A: Yes — you can extend it to reach someone in the water.

Q: What else should every boat owner have?
 A: Along with a boat hook: life jackets, dock lines, fenders, anchor, first-aid kit, and fire extinguisher.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching:

• what is boat hook
  

• how to use boat hook
  

• what size boat hook do I need
  

• what is the best boat hook
  

…then now you know: the Extend-A-Reach Boat Hook is the tool that answers all of them.

✔ Stronger.
✔ Longer.
✔ Safer.

Make docking, mooring, retrieving, and trailering effortless - with one tool built to last.