Best Snake Handling Hooks of 2026

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Snake handling hooks are an essential tool for anyone who works with snakes, whether it be for research, education, or snake removal. These hooks are specifically designed to ensure the safety of both the handler and the snake, allowing the handler to safely and securely handle the snake without causing harm or injury. Made from high-quality materials and designed to be easy to use, snake handling hooks are a must-have for anyone who wants to work with snakes in a safe and responsible manner. With a range of sizes and styles available, there is a snake handling hook to suit every need and budget.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

REPTI ZOO Portable Mini Snake Hook & Snake Tongs Cover #TOP 1
REPTI ZOO Portable Mini Snake Hook & Snake Tongs
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AQUANEAT 26" Extendable Stainless Steel Snake Hook Cover #TOP 2
AQUANEAT 26" Extendable Stainless Steel Snake Hook
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Bytcew 61" Snake Hook Tool Cover #TOP 3
Bytcew 61" Snake Hook Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Snake Handling Hooks

#TOP 1

REPTI ZOO Portable Mini Snake Hook & Snake Tongs

SNH03
REPTI ZOO Portable Mini Snake Hook & Snake Tongs Cover
REPTI ZOO Portable Mini Snake Hook Collapsible Stainless Steel Snake Tongs and Snake & Reptile Hook Retractable Catching Snake Handling Tool

The REPTI ZOO Portable Mini Snake Hook & Snake Tongs are made of stainless steel and can be collapsed to 7.8 inches, making them easy to carry in your pocket. The hook can be adjusted from 7.8" to 23.6" and is ideal for handling small snakes weighing no more than 2.2lb. Please note that it is not suitable for use with venomous reptiles. This product is perfect for snake fans who need a convenient tool for handling their pets.

What We Like
Collapsible and portable
Adjustable size
Made of stainless steel
#TOP 2

AQUANEAT 26" Extendable Stainless Steel Snake Hook

NSH-001
silver
26inch
AQUANEAT 26" Extendable Stainless Steel Snake Hook Cover
AQUANEAT Reptile Snake Hook, 26inch Extendable Stainless Steel Snake Stick with Non-Slip Handle

The AQUANEAT Snake Hook offers a safe and convenient way to handle snakes, thanks to its 26-inch length that keeps you at a comfortable distance. Its extendable handle adjusts from 7 to 26 inches, making it easier to catch smaller snakes without risking harm to their skin. The round-headed hook design helps you gently secure the snake, minimizing injury. Plus, the hook is made from high-quality stainless steel, so it’s strong and resistant to rust. This means you can rely on it for long-term use, whether you’re a pet owner or a professional handler.

What We Like
Long reach for safety
Adjustable handle length
Round-headed hook design
Durable stainless steel
#TOP 3

Bytcew 61" Snake Hook Tool

SH-1
Silver white
Bytcew 61" Snake Hook Tool Cover
Bytcew 61" Snake Hook Reptile Catcher Stick Pole, Snake Handling Tool kit for Rattlesnakes Copperhead Removal Catching

The Bytcew Snake Catcher is designed for reptile enthusiasts who need a reliable tool for handling snakes. Its rivet-reinforced head ensures durability, so you can confidently manage strong tensions without worry. The multi-section lock feature allows you to adjust the pole from 16 inches to 61 inches, giving you the versatility to reach various sizes of snakes. Made from lightweight stainless steel with a rubber grip, this telescopic pole is easy to transport and provides a non-slip hold. Ideal for safely capturing small snakes in the wild, this tool is a must-have for any snake handler.

What We Like
Durable rivet-reinforced head
Adjustable length for versatility
Lightweight and portable design
Non-slip rubber handle
Ideal for snake enthusiasts
#TOP 4

DocSeward Snake Hook, Copperhead Series

DocSeward
FL43
DocSeward Snake Hook, Copperhead Series Cover
DocSeward Snake Hook, Copperhead Series for Catching, Controlling, or Moving Snakes, Stainless Steel & Copper, Field Length (43 inches)

The DocSeward Snake Hook, Copperhead Series is a 43-inch long snake hook made of copper and stainless steel. It features a unique copper ferrule that provides a lighter and balanced hook without compromising strength. The tool is rugged, safe, and reliable, with a secure rubber grip, light weight, and hook geometry that allows the user to catch, control or move reptiles safely. The high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail make this hook a pleasure to use. Crafted in the USA, it is built for many years of reliable use.

What We Like
Lighter and balanced hook
Rugged and reliable materials
Secure rubber grip for safe use
#TOP 5

JIHAQUA Stainless Steel Extensible Snake Hook 39 inch

39 inch
JIHAQUA Stainless Steel Extensible Snake Hook 39 inch Cover
JIHAQUA Stainless Steel Extensible Snake Hook 39 inch, Retractable Reptile Hook, Pick-up Handling Tool (39 inch)

JIHAQUA Snake Hook is a must-have tool for reptile lovers. With a secure rubber grip, lightweight design, and specialized hook shape, this tool ensures safe handling, control, and movement of reptiles. The retractable shaft adds to its portability, making it easy to carry around for spontaneous reptile interactions. This hook is perfect for playing with small snakes and reptiles, providing convenience and peace of mind for enthusiasts.

What We Like
Secure rubber grip
Lightweight and portable
Specialized hook shape
#TOP 6

JIHAQUA 26-Inch Snake Hook

26 inch
JIHAQUA 26-Inch Snake Hook Cover
JIHAQUA Stainless Steel Extensible Snake Hook 26 inch, Retractable Reptile Hook, Pick-up Handling Tool

The JIHAQUA Snake Handling Tool is designed with your safety and ease in mind. Its secure rubber grip ensures a firm hold, making it easier for you to catch and control reptiles without risk. The lightweight design and unique hook shape enhance maneuverability, allowing you to handle snakes and other reptiles confidently. With a retractable shaft, this tool is portable and convenient to carry, making it ideal for snake enthusiasts on the go. Whether you're playing with a small snake or managing a reptile, this tool is a must-have for your collection.

What We Like
Secure rubber grip
Lightweight and portable
Retractable shaft
Easy reptile handling
#TOP 7

Zoo Med Deluxe Collapsible Snake Hook (2 Pack)

TA-25
No Color
One Size
Zoo Med Deluxe Collapsible Snake Hook (2 Pack) Cover
(2 Pack) Zoo Med Deluxe Collapsible Snake Hook

The Zoo Med Collapsible Snake Hook is a handy tool designed to make handling snakes easier and safer. It extends from about 7 inches to over 2 feet, giving you the flexibility to work with snakes of different sizes or reach into various enclosures comfortably. This adjustable length means you can customize the tool to suit your needs, whether you're moving a snake or inspecting cage decorations. However, it’s important to note that this hook is not suitable for venomous reptiles, so it’s best used with non-venomous species. Its versatility also allows you to check and rearrange items in your pet’s habitat without direct contact.

What We Like
Adjustable length
Safe for non-venomous snakes
Dual-purpose use
Comes in a 2-pack
#TOP 8

Mabor Stainless Steel Extensible Snake Hook

695577_1_5oAn45Fg
Black
Mabor Stainless Steel Extensible Snake Hook Cover
Mabor 40 Inch Snake Hook, Stainless Steel Extensible Retractable Grappling Hook, Pick-Up Handling Tool Pool Skimmer Basket Hooks

The Mabor Extensible Snake Hook is a handy tool designed to help you safely handle reptiles with its smooth, rounded tip that prevents harm. Made from rust-resistant stainless steel, this hook is built to last even with outdoor use. You can adjust its length from about 12 to 41 inches, so it fits different tasks or reptile sizes perfectly, and it securely locks in place when extended. Despite its sturdy design, it’s lightweight and folds down easily for convenient storage and transport. Plus, it’s not just for snakes—you can use it to reach or pick up items in tricky spots, making it a versatile addition to your toolkit.

What We Like
Safe rounded tip
Rust-resistant stainless steel
Adjustable length with secure lock
Lightweight and portable
Multi-purpose use
#TOP 9

Yorikyas 64 inch Snake Catcher Hook Stick Tongs Grabber Handling Tool Kit

Yorikyas 64 inch Snake Catcher Hook Stick Tongs Grabber Handling Tool Kit Cover
Yorikyas 64 inch Snake Catcher Hook Stick Tongs Grabber Handling Tool Kit for Rattlesnakes Python Copperhead Removal

Introducing the Yorikyas Snake Catcher Kit - the ultimate tool for handling snakes with ease and safety. This kit includes a telescopic snake hook with a soft rubber handle, which can be collapsed to a compact size of 21.6 inches for convenient carrying. With its extended length of about 64 inches, this snake hook allows for long distance operation, ensuring your safety by keeping you at a distance from the snake. It is ideal for moving small snakes and collecting them in the wild. Made of stainless steel, this snake hook is not only suitable for snake lovers, but also for mountaineering, hiking, picnic, camping, and even removing pet reptiles. With the Yorikyas Snake Catcher Kit, you can confidently handle snakes without the fear of being bitten.

What We Like
Easy and safe snake handling
Telescopic design for convenient carrying
Extended length for long distance operation
#TOP 10

Gzlozak Heavy Duty Adjustable Snake Hook

G00071
Black
Gzlozak Heavy Duty Adjustable Snake Hook Cover
Gzlozak Snake Hook Heavy Duty, 35"-65" Snake Reptile Hook Rubber Tip for Rattlesnakes Ball Python Rattle Cobra Removal Non Slip Foam Handle Stainless Steel

The Gzlozak Snake Hook is designed with strength and safety in mind. Made from high-strength stainless steel, it can hold snakes up to 8 pounds, giving you confidence when handling even larger reptiles. Its non-slip foam handle ensures a secure grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions, making it safer and easier for you to work. The hook extends from 35 to 66 inches, allowing you to adjust the length for close or distant handling, which adds flexibility based on your needs. Plus, the soft gelatinous coating on the hook protects snakes from injury during capture or transfer, making it a humane and reliable tool for snake handling.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel
Non-slip foam handle
Adjustable length 35"-66"
Soft, snake-safe hook tip
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why do snake handlers use hooks?

Snake handlers use hooks to safely handle snakes. The hook is used to slightly lift the mid-body of the snake, allowing the handler to guide and move the snake into a container or enclosure.

2. Are snake hooks safe?

Yes, snake hooks are considered a safe tool for handling snakes. When used properly, a snake hook allows handlers to quickly and safely hook and tail the snake before placing it in a secure container. This method ensures the safety of both the handler and the snake.

3. How do you restrain a snake with a snake hook?

To restrain a snake with a snake hook, lightly grab the tail and slide the hook under the snake's mid-section. Lift the snake and guide it head-first into its enclosure, allowing it to see where it is going.

4. Why is snake handling illegal?

Snake handling may be illegal in some areas due to safety concerns. In the past, there have been incidents of snakebite-related deaths and injuries associated with snake handling. As a result, many legislatures have implemented bans on snake handling to protect both humans and snakes.

5. Do snakes hate being handled?

Snakes are wary animals and do not enjoy being held, touched, petted, or passed around. They are not receptive to affection and prefer to be left alone in their natural habitats.

6. What not to do when handling a snake?

When handling a snake, it is important to avoid gripping it behind the head if possible. If you must grip, use all your fingers and avoid choking the snake. Additionally, avoid picking up the snake by the tail, as this can potentially harm the snake.

7. Where is the safest place to grab a snake?

When handling smaller snakes, it is safest to grab or lift them around the middle of their body or lower. For larger snakes, it is recommended to grab or lift them approximately one-third of the way down their body from the head. This ensures a secure grip and minimizes the risk of injury for both the handler and the snake.

8. Do snake hooks hurt snakes?

When used correctly, snake hooks do not hurt snakes. The hook allows the snake to move and provides a controlled way to guide them. However, it is important to handle the snake with care to prevent any accidental injuries, such as the snake falling from the hook to a hard surface.

Editor's Notes

During our snake handling hook research, we found 24 snake handling hook products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 11,977 customer reviews through our big data system to write the snake handling hooks list. We found that most customers choose snake handling hooks with an average price of $12.74.

The snake handling hooks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of snake handling hooks, including REPTI ZOO, AQUANEAT, Bytcew, DocSeward, JIHAQUA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 165 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.