Legal Harvesting Methods: Alligator Hook and Line

Instructions (see video above):

1. Baited hooks and lines just suspended above the water by some type of structure.
2. In some cases, hunters will use poles, branches, or trees to suspend bait as well as provide for a stationary object for securing the end of the line.
3. The most common used baits are chicken quarters and beef melt.
4. Approximately 30 ft of line is tied off at the bottom of the structure, while the baited hook end is suspended about 1 - 2 feet above the water surface.
5. Line must be a minimum of 300 lb test.
6. The baited end is suspended in such a manner to allow for easy line removal by an alligator.
7. Clothes pins are sometimes used to hold lines to facilitate easy line removal.
8. Excess line is rolled up near the base of the structure.
9. Alligators feeding primarily at night will take the bait.
10. Once alligator lines and set and baited, alligator hunters must inspect their hooks and lines and remove captured alligators daily.