I just want to say a little something about the new gaffs that American Tackle sells. I really love the fact that they actually screw into the blank. From an engineering standpoint, this adds strength and rigidity, both important in a gaff. I have built two of these and my customers love them. Both customers are very mechanical and appreciate the added structure of having it screw into the blank. The blanks are a nice Bushido matte finish that just looks good.

From my novice rod building experience yet experience with fabrication, while the treads may initially seem to be a good idea to keep the hook of the gaff connected to the shaft, I would be concerned with the threads promoting stress-risers in the shaft = a break waiting to happen. But if it works for you, then by means, go for it.

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

I understand the stress-riser effect, but the blank is threaded as well. Once epoxy takes hold, it should become one with the blank. The difference being in the gaps where stress can occur is much less. I am not a fabricator or engineer, but I still like it.

I will have to check that out. I have built many gaffs and always would file some notches into the smooth shank of the hook to give it some teeth before glueing it in.

I just did a couple 2' gaff myself and I was also very impressed with the ease of assembly. We have use our gaff on a few trips so far and its preformed flawlessly putting snapper and grouper in the kill box!