A gaff is basically a large stick that has a barbed spear or hook attached to one end. It is used to hoist large fish out the water when bringing them onto a boat, or even to carry them back to shore.

Fishing gaffs are generally used when the fish’s weight is too heavy for a fishing pole or line – and threatens to damage your equipment. As it’s relied upon to be sturdier than most other fishing accessories, choosing the right gaff requires careful consideration.

Some things to consider when selecting your gaff include:

• The gaff length is crucial based on the species you are targeting and the configuration of the ship or boat you are in — you don’t want something that’s too long or too short.
• The length and breadth of the gaff handle will also be based on the boat height and your own personal preference — whether you prefer something long, short, wide or thin.
• The quality of the hook should be robust enough to last for a long time — ideally you’ll want to choose corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel, with emphasis on tensile strength.
• Your preference for wearing gloves or not — some people prefer to use gloves while others don’t. Choose the particular gaff based on that preference.
• Aluminium or fibreglass materials are known for their long-lasting durability — you may want to choose a gaff made from these.

Although it may seem complicated at first, choosing the right gaff is all about personal preference, while taking into account which fish you’re going to be catching. For more information on which fish requires which handling materials, or for other cool fishing tips and techniques, download Pro Angler in the App Store today.

A gaff is basically a large stick that has a barbed spear or hook attached to one end. It is used to hoist large fish out the water when bringing them onto a boat, or even to carry them back to shore.

Fishing gaffs are generally used when the fish’s weight is too heavy for a fishing pole or line – and threatens to damage your equipment. As it’s relied upon to be sturdier than most other fishing accessories, choosing the right gaff requires careful consideration.

Some things to consider when selecting your gaff include:

• The gaff length is crucial based on the species you are targeting and the configuration of the ship or boat you are in — you don’t want something that’s too long or too short.
• The length and breadth of the gaff handle will also be based on the boat height and your own personal preference — whether you prefer something long, short, wide or thin.
• The quality of the hook should be robust enough to last for a long time — ideally you’ll want to choose corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel, with emphasis on tensile strength.
• Your preference for wearing gloves or not — some people prefer to use gloves while others don’t. Choose the particular gaff based on that preference.
• Aluminium or fibreglass materials are known for their long-lasting durability — you may want to choose a gaff made from these.

Although it may seem complicated at first, choosing the right gaff is all about personal preference, while taking into account which fish you’re going to be catching. For more information on which fish requires which handling materials, or for other cool fishing tips and techniques, download Pro Angler in the App Store today.