Gaff length

[JohnMckroidJr]

Originally Posted by Mr. NiceGuy

Maybe if I needed something extra long to reach from the deck of a boat high off the water, bamboo might be a cheap and reasonable material?

Personally, I would prefer the strength of something like a shovel handle or other tool-quality hardwood.


I wonder how "Calcutta Bamboo" ever became a popular standard in the first place? It's only bamboo.

Bamboo fishing rods once had their time and place too, but I think that time has passed.

If you ever get in a situation with a large high energy fish like a tuna, mahi or wahoo, a longer gaff can shave off some fighting time -- maybe have a shot at a second fish before a school is long gone. I was glad to have a long gaff earlier this year when I had a double hook up on kingfish. Had to put one rod in a scotty holder while I reeled the other one in. The longer gaff allowed me to end the first fight sooner -- the first fish was flopping around in the kayak while I reeled in the second fish.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_M4r3WDw1RI

I am currently using a 6ft fiberglass rod blank that I converted into a gaff. It is heavier and harder to maneuver than my old (home depo bamboo) gaff, plus if dropped, it will sink. A shovel handle might be good for short 2' gaffs, but the longer, the harder to handle with one hand while trying to steer the fish into position with the rod in your other hand. Thank you for posting the links on the Calcutta Bamboo. I now have a better appreciation for Calcutta verses just buying any bamboo pole that might look straight, but lack the strength and flexability. Currently bamboo for gaffs and lift poles is still a simple economical solution -- I plan to make more gaffs from calcutta bamboo.