Got tags this year and need some advice. Is 12/0 hooks with 450# tarred nylon braided sufficient or should you use a steel leader for baiting? I'm guessing a 2x4 sunk in the marsh will anchor em in leu of an accessible tree? I don't know anybody who fishes so I got no one to lean on. Thx.

A good willow pole will do

No need for steel leader. 12/0 should do. Remember, the hook is gonna catch in the gut, not mouth. Good willow pole is plenty good. Make sure it's tied close to the bottom. Use another pole pushed in at an angle to hang the bait. The higher above the water, the bigger the gator to get the bait. Don't put it higher than a foot or so.

How long will I have to get to a processor using wet burlap? Guess i could pile some bags of ice on them for the 2 1/2 hr ride back. I may process one at the whitetail butcher block and sell the other. Hopefully we won't catch a 3 and 4 footer.

Set the baits high to keep the babies off. Get out there and get them in the early morning and keep them out the sun. Wet burlap will work. Try not to leave them baking in the bed of the truck too long.