Fish of a Life Time @ the Yak Now What?

[taggermike]

Its easier said than done some times, but stay cool. Rushing things or spazzing out will lose you fish and some times gear. Try to have your gear where you can get at it. HAving to dig out the gaff when the fish is at boat side, no bueno.

Gaff fish
Back off drag
Secure with clip or heavy stringer
Remove gaff
Bleed fish
Get fish out of sight. I put all fish in the hatch and out of sight to dogs.
Clean blood off yak
Hopefully repeat.
A word on gaffing. Place gaff hook on far side of fish and give a quick solid pull. Continue pulling until fish is against or in the yak. Sorry if this obvious but lots of fish get lost at gaff.
Mike