Missed this thread - Chet - very nice method!
As I do mostly shore fishing I've never used a gaff and as I release alot I wouldn't do it from a boat - even on Bluefish. I will use a net or leader the fish and then liplock (the tool
) or one of them newe fanglede lock -n- weighs ...
It's already been answered that there is no real legal issue with it but I certainly hope that DEM would cite and arrest anyone gaffing any striper in the side / meat of the fish regardless of size and then releasing it, especially if under sized.
Billybob - I'm still laid off - might need to visit you next week
