Gaff, in fisherman's parlance, a sharp, strong iron hook used to land fish too large to be pulled aboard with tackle. The gaff is shaped not unlike a fish hook without a barb. The angler's gaff is about three inches across the bend, and is set in a wooden handle of convenient length. To bring to gaff is to draw a fish within reach by taking in line. When the gaff is applied, it should be done by a positive, deft upward stroke, lest, on feeling the point, the fish break away. Whalers use a similar instrument for handling strips of blubber.