Pier fishing and grappling hooks

[MuskieBait]

The issue with those grappling hook, known as rope gaff, is that you will not be able to release the fish. You are thus assuming that every fish you hook and land will be desirable for consumption. If you caught a large fish that you do not intend to kill and consume, what is your other option to land the fish?

The rope gaff is also very difficult to operate own your own. As you dangle the gaff off the side, it is prone to spin in the wind thus creating opportunities for the gaff or rope to tangle your fishing line. Also, you will not be able to react quick enough to move the rope and the gaff away if a fish runs into the rope. Physically, you only have an arm's stretch distance to pull the gaff away. This method is best used when a fishing partner can help you out.

A similar but more conservation-minded method, the pier net would allow you to release unwanted catches. It would still require a partner to net the fish. Pier nets need not to be big if your catches a medium size. A well built crab net can often suffice.

I've seen too many people use rope gaff to land unwanted fish and subsequently release the fish with a large wound from the gaff. It was very prevalent in Florida, especially the day we were fishing in Tampa when people were gaffing large (20-40lb) Cownose Ray and throwing them back into the water after gaffing. Sometimes, one gaff was not secure enough and a second gaff was used. I had a pier net and offered to help but their response was "Who cares, it's a trash fish anyways." This complete lack of respect for wildlife is why I am very against the use of a rope gaff.