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Posts: 27
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Anyone know what a Release Gaff is and how it works ??
Could you please provide a URL to one so I could see it.
Thanks,
MK |
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Posts: 132
Location: Kawarthas, Ontario | A release gaff is typically a gaff with an elongated (and generally offset) point that permits the angler to place his fingers around the shaft below the point, while the main shaft rests inside the palm of his hand by the thumb. This bridging practise allows the muskie to be contained within this area. Rolling the muskie on its its side while it is in the water generally quiets the fish and allows the angler a free hand to cut or work the hooks loose. The gaff is one of the best tools for handling larger muskies.
The methodolgy is to insert the point down (into the muskie's mouth) through the thin membrane behind the jaw (offset forward of the tonge). This method allows the angler to ensure that he does not hit the tongue. Muskies should never be lifted using the gaff vertically. To do so can result in a broken or dislocated jaw (or worse).
Gaffs are not legal for use on all waters. For example, gaffs are illegal in the State of New York, but they are legal in Ontario and Quebec. Make sure you check the regulations out before you take one in your boat.
Properly used, a gaff is one of the best release methods for handling big muskies. Improperly used, a gaff is a lethal weapon that can kill or injure a muskie.
Hope this helps.
Steve Wickens
STRIKE ZONE Muskie Charters |
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Posts: 32892
Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin | Great reply, Steve. here is a picture of a release gaff I carry wherever it is legal. It isn't offset, but has a trip lever that keeps the gaff closed, and allows the angler to work on hook removal easily.
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 PANA0281.JPG (66KB - 274 downloads)
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Location: Woodstock, IL | Do you prefer the use of a release gaff over a cradle? I bought a cradle about 2 years ago and jinxed myself because I haven't caught one since, so there has been no opportunity to use it. |
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Posts: 132
Location: Kawarthas, Ontario | My preference for release tools is somewhat tempered by the size of my current boat, which is a lot bigger (and higher) than my old one. Now that I've had a chance to see and experience the benefits versus drawbacks to using a large net, I don't think this would change a whole lot from boat to boat.
In order of preference:
1. Release net - Beckman Magnum Pen / Frabill Kwik Cradle
2. Release gaff
3. Boga Grip (or alternate gripper style release tool)
4. Large conventional muskie net
5. Cradle
I consider a cradle to be a poor release method. It is almost impossible for a single angler to use, it is almost as dangerous to use as hand landing, and they tend to take a lot of slime off of the fish. It's #5 on my list. I have a good one, but it isn't now, nor will it ever be on my boat.
Steve Wickens
STRIKE ZONE Muskie Charters |
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