I was using my $6 BassPro gripper, BOGA knock off, and lost serveral decent size Northern Pike because I had to bend over and could not reach those thrashing pike with the short stick.

Berkley's knew 28 incher is $90!

I took the pins out and drilled channesl for a loop of 65 pound 7-strand coated leader cable. The gripper fits PVC 3/4 fittings. I ran the leader up over the new cross bolt and ontop of the cross bolt I ran it through a piece of tubing and then a nut for a bead, a stopper. This brought the knot up to the top so I could reach it to tie it. The tube rests on the cross bolt.

Both triggers work. I can stand in my boat and reach the surface of the water with it.

I am also building a traditional side wrapped, lashed Gaff Hook with a stainless Steel hardened 3.5 inch hook! 

I hate it when one of tho' 'Gators twirls and wraps up in the net.  Often you have to cut the leader to get the trebles and line out of the net fabric!

Nice!

Are you fishing Stagecoach?

' not exactly sure what you meant, by location or from that high up!

I fish mostly AZ and MT.

A bad, bad, bad spine does not help me to bend over.

If this don't work I am considering a harpoon.