So i had a few of these sticks laying around. I bought the gaff hook at the jig stop in dana point. The gaff has a nail/point at the end of the shaft to "hammer into" in this case the stick. So a couple of whacks to drive the point into the wood. . . it doesn't slide up and down. Added the rope wrap, sideways now strong. I suppose I can use a lacquer for added protection and maybe strength, but it's on solid.
All the chatter on the home-made "ghetto" gaff got me to thinking I needed more tests. Bring on the 50lb trash cans, this baby works and lasts. I've had is since 2009 when I started. I think it floats too which is why I still have it.