Gaff or Net?

[dsafety]

I do not yet have a gaff for my kayak. So far, this has not been a big deal because I have not caught anything large enough to require one. In fact, I have not even needed to use my net more than once or twice. My poor fishing skills are improving so I am thinking about whether to pick up a small gaff.

Since I release just about everything I catch, I am not inclined to use a gaff very often. I am sure that this will change the first time I hook into a nice TY or WSB. My question for the group is whether I need to have a gaff on board or will I be able to get by with just the net?

If I do end up getting a gaff, what kind should I get?

I look forward to reading your opinions.

Bob

[bajadog]

Bob,

I bought a 3' wooden gaff at West marine for $4.50, then cross drilled a
hole in the handle and ran a lanyard through it to clip to my yak eyelet.

Marco

[TheSherThang]

Definitely get a gaff as you never know what you might get into. You can make your own out of a gaff hook and broom handle, go the cheaper route as above, or get a promar floating one that extends. I made my own

[FISHIONADO]

I keep an 18" folding net in my hatch because I understand it is required by the DFG but I have never used it. A gaff is very useful for La Jolla, pulling in big fish, de-hooking sharks, and tourist control. I only release fish that are short or taste bad.

[dsafety]

You are lucky Fishionado, or maybe just a good fisher. It seems that I only catch shorts or fish that taste bad so just about everything gets released. I am getting really good at catching bait, however.

Bob

[tylerdurden]

Gaff. No question. If it is small enough to use a net, just grab it with your hands. If it is too big to net, gaff it to keep it, or just grab it to release. I have never used a net on the kayak, ever. I think they would add more complication than needed.


DFG regs require a net, but everytime I've been checked by an agent the subject never came up.