What does a fishing tool do in the oil field?

Fishing tools are specialized equipment used in the oil field to retrieve lost or stuck items, such as drilling tools, pipes, and other components, from boreholes. When drilling operations encounter difficulties, such as broken drill bits, fishing tools are deployed to safely extract these items and minimize downtime.

Various types of fishing tools are available, each designed for specific situations. Some commonly used fishing tools include:

- Fishing Jars: These tools apply a sudden upward force to the stuck object through hydraulic or mechanical means. Fishing jars are designed to loosen or free the object by breaking its grip on the borehole.

- Overshots: Overshots are used to catch hold of and retrieve cylindrical objects, such as drill pipes or collars. They consist of a series of slips or fingers that encircle the object and provide a secure grip.

- Spears: Spears are used when only a small portion of the lost object is accessible. They consist of a pointed or hooked end that is inserted into a cavity or opening on the object, allowing it to be retrieved.

- Junk Baskets: Junk baskets are designed to capture debris, small objects, or pieces of broken tools that may be present in the borehole. They have a basket-like structure with serrated edges to collect and retrieve these materials.

- Milling Tools: Milling tools are used to drill or cut through obstructions or stuck objects. They are equipped with rotating cutters that can grind away material, allowing the passage of drilling equipment or the retrieval of lost items.

Fishing operations require expertise, planning, and careful execution to avoid further complications or damage to the well. Specialized fishing companies or experienced drilling crews with the necessary knowledge and equipment are typically involved in these operations to ensure successful retrieval of lost objects.