Definition
Releasing Spear — A releasing spear is an internal-catch fishing tool that is run inside a tubular fish and grips its inner wall with expanding slips, allowing the operator to pull and jar the fish and to release it if it cannot be recovered.
Also known as: releasing spear, spear, internal catch tool
How a releasing spear works
A releasing spear is the internal counterpart to the overshot. It is lowered inside a hollow fish — such as a length of pipe, casing, or tubing — where a set of tapered slips or a grapple expands against the inner wall to grip it. Pulling up drives the slips harder into the bore for a firm hold, letting the operator apply overpull, jarring, and torque to work the fish free.
Releasing and applications
Like a good fishing tool, the spear is releasing: a controlled manipulation frees the slips so the operator can withdraw the spear or reposition it, which is essential if the fish proves immovable. Spears are chosen when the fish top is open and its inside diameter is accessible, and they are often run with a packer element so circulation can be maintained through the fish while pulling.
Why it matters for rentals
Slip size and grapple range must match the fish inside diameter, so several configurations may be needed to attempt a recovery.
Find releasing spears among our fishing tools, or contact us with the fish inside diameter for a matched internal-catch tool.