New Gaff (Courtsey of EricB)

   Here are a few shots of my new bamboo gaff.  Eric supplied the bamboo staff (Thanks again)
I wrapped it up a last week, and covered the wraps with Devcon 5-min epoxy.  It was super messy working with that much epoxy quickly  but it came out OK.

Nice job!

Nice work Troy.  I see something in that 2nd pic that you could practice on.

Michael

 Ouch..... don't let my wife hear you said that!  Won't be pretty!

Nice job , question for you guys in the know . I've got a hook similiar to that one except it is shaped differntly , more as a swinging gaff rather than one you would just pull up . How does a gaff like mine work while using on a yak ? Would it be beneficial for me to get one the same style as this one ?

Thanks , Dan

Ouch..... don't let my wife hear you said that!  Won't be pretty!

Yeah, my wife likes cats too but knows that we will NEVER have one because I'm deathly allergic.  It is their effect on me that has led to my dislike for them.  I know, I know, it isn't there fault.

I talk big, but I wouldn't stick it with a gaff.  I might poke and prod it with the shank in hopes that it would take a swipe at the point, but never stick a poor little fella.

Michael

I'm glad it worked out for you.  I just love bamboo...  It's amazingly strong, lightweight, and floats.  Plus it just feels really nice in your hand.

Did you try teak oil?  You should probably get something on there to seal the end grain, at least.

  Not yet.  Its on my list to things to do.  I might just coat the end with some epoxy to help protect it.

I noticed mine was getting a bit weathered so I refinished it with Epifanes brand marine varnish.  It's good stuff!  I recommend you get some sort of finish on there because it will start to dry out and crack eventually otherwise.

And don't forget a tennis ball to cover/protect the hook tip.

Eric, posting a couple of pics here for you to see the bamboo I've got.

Wondering if you have a preferred diameter? I think the first would be too big...

 

  My .02 worth?  Is the bamboo comfortable in your hand? Your first shot, the bamboo looks a little thick, but, if it fits comfortably in your hand, use it. Go with whats comfortable. 

Troy

RIP Dad
8/04/09

  My .02 worth?  Is the bamboo comfortable in your hand? Your first shot, the bamboo looks a little thick, but, if it fits comfortably in your hand, use it. Go with whats comfortable. 

Troy

RIP Dad
8/04/09

My thoughts exactly.

I saw Eric's last Friday and really liked it. How is yours holding up?

 

  Update on my gaff.  Prior to me going to Paradise Fish & chill here recently,( First salt water outting) my gaff spent its time out in my small shed.  I neglected to cover it with anything.   It started to mold over.  I sanded it down, removing the dark mold, and bringing it back to its natural color, then I covered it completely with a varnish I had on hand.  So now its protected.   Please for those that are planning to make a bamboo gaff, don't forget to protect it the first time!

Troy

RIP Dad
8/04/09
 

Couple of other questions for any bamboo gaff makers:

1. Did you add lead so you can also use it as a knocker?
2. If yes, how much?
3. Does it still float?
4. Have you found any good online info regarding decorative wrappings on the handle?

You've got a really nice patch of bamboo there!

I'd be happy to make you one, but to be honest you could do as well or better than I could.  Look online for rod wrapping, there's a real basic technique for pulling the end under the wraps, so there's no loose end.

You could get as fancy as you want to.

I highly recommend the Epiphanes yacht varnish!  I can bring you a jarful...  it's not cheap, and you only need a tiny bit for a gaff.