Abstract: A fish gaff provides moveable, opposing gaff fangs which are reliably transitioned between a closed engagement position and an open retracted position. The fish gaff hook provides a hollow handle into which is inserted an actuating shaft. The actuating shaft is pivotally connected to the opposing gaff fangs which extend out of the hollow interior of the gaff handle through openings on the sides of the gaff handle. The side openings provide bearing surfaces for engagement and pivoting of the gaff fangs during both insertion and retraction of the gaff actuating shaft.