Harpoons

[Linwood]

There seems to be a trend towards the use of harpoons in leu of a flying gaff amongst sportfishermen.I have been arguing on the Swordfishing Central forum about their use.I am not opposed to a better system than the flyer if it prevents/diminishes the loss/waste of the fish.My concern is that this method is not acceptable practice according to rules adopted by the IGFA and could in fact be in violation of state and federal laws.Does anyone in the Marlin community use a harpoon? There seems to be an endless debate on this issue going on.My concern is that those who fish for the sport should take care not to cross the line between the sport and commercial industries.Sportfishing should be defined by its limitations opposed to commercial fishing which is by nature much more efficient.Weigh in you guys.What do you think about this? Take a look at the topic, "Reaching the corner." Should he be told about the harpoon,or should they just learn to accept their limitations?

[Anonymous]

linwood,

I would much rather use a spear-gun than a harpoon. try it once and I am sure you will love it.-

[Linwood]

Spearguns are much too modern and designed to be used underwater. The harpoon has a solid reputation for reliable performance when used by a skilled professional.Spearguns can also discharge accidently,causing injury/death to people.

[Warren_Brantley]

Just an observation here, don't take it too seriously; does not appear to be a trend. I read in "Hawaii Fishing News" a month or two back where some fellows billfishing from a private boat got a nice blue within 'range' and using a 30-06 rifle dispatched it, boated it, and set back out to trolling. Sort of combines fishing and hunting does it not.

I had a mate double leader (on day one) a small blue I was fighting 9!!! times in late March before we caught it. Added an extra 75 minutes to the fight along with 5 blisters and a bit of chafing.

I felt like dispatching his fat mass. Regards to all. WGB