- A fishing gaff is an iron-like pole or handle attached to a razor-sharp hook. Gaffs are generally used for landing enormously hefty fish. Fishermen are able to maneuver much better when fishing for and catching big game fish.
- The razor-sharp hook is used by fishermen to pierce and secure very large fish. When fish are too heavy for a fishing pole line, gaffs are used. The fish is pierced and then lifted by the hook and placed into the boat or ship. The fish generally die quickly after landing in the boat. Generally, the hook on the gaff is placed underneath the backbone of the fish.
- If the fisherman's intention is to catch the fish and then let it go, gaffs should not be used. This is because if you throw the fish back into the water, it will generally die a painful and slow death instead of a moderately painless, quick death.
- A flying gaff is a unique type of gaff. It is used to help catch and secure the fish as well as direct and control very big fish. The head of the gaff, which is secured to the boat by a long, weighty cable or rope, disconnects when a great amount of force is used.
- When using fishing gaffs it is very important to use them properly. Improper use of fishing gaffs by inexperienced fishermen can be very dangerous not only to the fishermen but also to anyone their company.
