Involves retrieving a stuck, broken, or left-behind ESP power cable from the wellbore. This is a delicate operation requiring planning and specialized tools due to the cable’s fragility and its often complex placement around tubing or other completion equipment. Here’s a step-by-step process to approach it:

1. Initial Assessment
   Review well history: Identify the cable depth, cable route, and any previously installed clamps or accessories.
   Determine cable condition: Was it cut, pinched, stuck, or damaged during retrieval of the ESP string?
   Check well integrity: Ensure the wellbore is stable and free from major obstructions.
2. Tool Selection and Planning
   Choose fishing tools: Based on depth and cable size. Common tools include:
   Cable spear or overshot
   Wireline or slickline tools
   Magnet fishing tools (if cable is frayed and difficult to latch onto)
   Determine fishing method: Either wireline, slickline, or coiled tubing depending on cable depth, deviation, and well environment.
3. Well Preparation
   Kill the well if needed: Ensure safe pressure conditions to perform fishing.
   Run drift or gauge: To check for restrictions or damage in the tubing or casing.
   Run a camera (optional): Downhole camera or logging tool can help locate cable and evaluate its condition.
4. Fishing Operation
   Run the fishing tool: Deploy the selected tool into the well on wireline or coiled tubing.
   Engage the cable:
   For a cable spear, it penetrates the core of the cable to grip internally.
   For overshots, the tool slips over the cable and locks mechanically.
   If using magnets, the tool collects loose strands or small segments of cable.
   Apply gentle tension: Ensure secure engagement without damaging the cable or tool.
5. Retrieval
   Pull cable to surface slowly: Avoid snapping it due to tension or tight spots.
   Monitor tool responses: Use real-time feedback from wireline sensors or tension indicators.
   Pull out of hole (POOH): Retrieve the cable segment and fishing tool.
6. Repeat or Confirm Cleanout
   If full cable is not retrieved, repeat fishing until all cable is cleared.
   Optionally, run a caliper log or camera inspection to confirm cable removal and well cleanliness.
7. Post-Operation
   Inspect recovered cable: Check for burn marks, mechanical damage, etc., to understand failure mode.
   Log operations: Record all fishing depths, tools used, time, and any complications.
   Plan next intervention: Decide whether to re-run an ESP, switch lift method, or perform further cleanout.