I am pretty sure he didn’t “catch” it.
“Shooting it” is not the same thing as “catching it.”
1. The following is only legal means and methods for taking an alligator:
a) Hook and Line (limit of 1 set per hunter) - non-stainless-steel hook of at least 9-0
size, 3 to 6 feet of leader material and 35-50 feet of rope (at least 300# test) per set,
approximately one pound of bait per set (beef spleen or 1/4 chicken) and a tool for
driving stakes.
b) Hunters will be required to map exact locations of line set. Line set locations will be
pre-approved by hunt managers. To avoid delays, GPS equipment is strongly
recommended.
c) Treble hooks may not be used or possessed during these hunts. No snares, gigs or
archery equipment will be allowed for these hunts.
2. Shotguns should be used to dispatch alligators secured on a line, but they may not be
used to shoot at free swimming alligators. A .410 caliber shotgun with light shot shell
loads of #6 shot or slugs is adequate. Non-toxic shot is preferred on the WMA. Rifles
and handguns are strictly prohibited as a means of dispatching alligators.
Not sure in this case but most of the ones harvested commercially are caught first and then shot.