|| |—| || |Illustration: Pete Sucheski| Successful gaffing comes with experience, but here are a few ground rules to keep in mind when the moment of truth arrives:
Store the gaff in a safe spot, but make sure it is accessible and sharp.
Rehearse the gaffing procedure with your crew, particularly for trips when big fish are the target.
AdvertisementStay calm and focused throughout the gaffing process-no wild lunging stabs.
After planting the gaff, immediately transfer the fish into the cockpit or fishbox in one smooth, complete motion. Do not let the fish thrash in the water.
-Paul Maxwell
