Abstract: A hand protector for fishing has a thumb portion which includes material on at least the inner or pad side of the thumb, for the direct engagement of the teeth of a typical game or sport fish for the support and carriage thereof. The teeth engaging material may be any suitable pile type material comprising a multitude of small loops; the loop portion of hook and loop fastening material (e. g., Velcro, tm) may be used. The thumb portion of the protector also provides complete protection for the thumb of a wearer of the device, from possible injury from the teeth of the fish. In an alternative embodiment, the protector includes a glove covering most of the hand and providing for greater comfort in colder conditions. The four fingertips of the glove embodiment are open, to provide for good tactile feel for the user of the glove.