Landing large fish by yourself?

 So after my ray incident on Friday night I have been pondering how I would land a good fish (decent Mulla etc) off rocks when fishing by myself? What's best to go with, gaff, net? Any tips/techniques so you can avoid the heart break of losing a cracker of a fish right at the death?

 

Jesse.

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Chris fish's picture

Posts: 847

Date Joined: 23/02/11

 I always use long leaders ad

Sun, 2013-02-10 23:11

 I always use long leaders ad once I have the fish close I grab the leader and put the rod down and can use the leader to steer them towards the gaff I hold in the other hand. After a while it becomes second nature and it's almost easier on your own that trying to direct someone after dark. With mulloway I find a lot of people try to bring them in to soon and lose them at there feet. Take your time and tire them out properly before attempting to get close to them.

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always looking for a new challenge!!

Posts: 524

Date Joined: 31/01/13

Depends on the location

Mon, 2013-02-11 09:11

Depends on the location really. From some rock ledges a long heavy leader like Chris fish suggested is the way to go, from others a combination of a long heavy leader & a long pole gaff is what you need. It just depends on the size of the fish & if you have to drag the leader over rocks to pull the fish up. Either way you need to put the rod down so don't forget to loosen the drag right off. The last thing you want is to lose your grip & have your outfit dissapear into the drink.

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