I think what Tony is saying is spot on. Everyone has their own style. If anyone has cluttered rails, it's Tony. He can control the space station from his rig.
If you watch this video you'll see 3 separate gaff shots. The fish never comes into the boat over the rails, so even if I did have accessories they wouldn't be in the way.
If the fish is coming over the rails you're obviously leaned pretty far forward. Pulling the fish straight up from your side gives you the most lifting power and reduces the risk of the fish coming off the gaff. Lets just be clear, halibut are a different story
