What is a reef hook? It is a stainless steel hook approximately 4"/10cm long, attached to a 6 ft/2m rope, a bag and a clip or snap ring. You secure the snap ring to one of the D rings on your BCD.

Why use a reef hook? Some of the dive sites in Palau (such as Blue Corner, New Drop Off, Peleliu Corner etc.) have strong currents (which attract the big fish and sharks). The reef hook enables you to secure yourself to the reef without any effort and without damaging the pristine reef.

How does it work? While reaching the desired spot on the reef to observe the action, we locate a rock or part of the reef that has no corals and literally hook the reef hook to it. The current will keep the line stretched and both your hands will be free (ideal for photographers). You can put some air in your BCD to float above the reef, however remember to dump it before you unhook!

Where to buy it? Invented in Palau by Francis Toribiong, the founder of Fish 'n Fins, the reef hook can be found in many dive shops around the world. Fish 'n Fins offers stainless steel reef hooks for $19.95 that will not rust and will accompany you on many dive expeditions to come.