| Many
anglers instinctually want to lift the head of a fish clear of the
water once they've brought it alongside the boat. Doing so usually
causes the fish to thrash with renewed energy. Since it's now "aimed" upward, when it does thrash, it tends to launch itself even farther out of the water, often creating slack in the line and throwing the hook. Even if it doesn't, a fish hanging vertically in the water is much harder to net or gaff than a fish lying on the surface. So, whether you intend to net or gaff a fish — or even to grab it with your hand — never lift its head from the water with the rod. Instead, leave its head in the water, keep your line tight, and be patient. Eventually, it will circle within range of the gaff or net. |