In reply to Post #1
carplounge one is good as it pivots keeping the boat level and stops it slipping along the hook .A simple hook unless you get exact centre and lift straight up will slip along handle if weight isnt even. Been there done that not good putting a heavy boat laden with bait

For years I have used a homemade one from a brush handle and a coat hook screwed into the end.

The important thing is to use a double coat hook, that will ensure that the boat can be lifted perfectly horizontal and it will not slip especially if your lowering a fully laden boat into the water.

Also cut the broom handle a specific length, mine is the depth of my bivvy so then when I go into an unknown swim, I can measure how far the bivvy will go back and also measure the width of the bivvy according to the marks I have on the handle, also I can measure exactly where my rods will go and will their be enough room etc and then I know I have room for everything as to how I like to set up.

Another thing it is useful for is clearing weed etc from in front of a swim that your boat could get snagged on.

Another use is slashing down briars and pulling them to one side and even pulling down branches if you get snagged on the likes of a hawthorn next to the swim.

In reply to Post #1
If you haven't already purchased one, worth looking at Custom Angling Solutions. I had one made that screws into a 6ft pole (which has other purposes as well).