My first legal

[Aaron&Julie]

Originally Posted by packeryakker

I was a little nervous after the gaff, it has been suggested I invest in a mesh net which I will do today.

Judging by your tape measure it barely made 22 inches, as I believe the mouth is supposed to be closed when measuring them. By law, I also believe a net is required on all fishing crafts, but not too many people off of La Jolla bring them, since most of the fish caught there don't usually require measurements
When they're that close and you don't have a net it's better to take the risk of bouncing them on deck and losing them, vice sticking the gaff in them when they could be a 1/2 inch short.
He looks like he just made it, so congrats on your first legal