Definition
Taper Tap — A taper tap is an internal-catch fishing tool with hardened, tapered threads that is screwed into the bore of a tubular fish to cut its own thread and grip the fish for pulling and jarring.
Also known as: taper tap, tap, fishing tap
How a taper tap works
A taper tap is used to catch a fish from the inside when other tools are unsuitable. Its hardened, wickered tapered threads are lowered into the open bore of a fish — such as a joint of pipe or tubing — and rotated so the tap cuts a mating thread into the fish’s inner wall. Once engaged, the tap grips firmly enough to allow overpull and jarring to free and recover the fish.
When it is used and its trade-offs
Taps are a robust option for a fish whose top is accessible internally but too damaged for a slip-type releasing spear. The main trade-off is that a taper tap is generally a non-releasing catch — once it has cut its thread, it is committed to the fish, so it is chosen when the operator is confident of recovery. Its external counterpart, the die collar, catches over the outside of a fish in the same threaded manner.
Why it matters for rentals
Tap size must match the fish bore, and a range of sizes is needed to respond to different fish.
See our fishing tools for rental taper taps and die collars, or contact us with the fish inside diameter for the correct tap.