I drilled the spike holes although I have seen several examples where they are tied on in different manners. I thought about more spikes, but I also thought about removing the fish and what the difficulties might be with more spikes. Most native examples seem to be holding the spikes to a minimum with this type gig. I debated about a central spike, but upon seeing Ishi's salmon harpoon, I decided not to include one. I am not sure Ishi's harpoon was actually finished when they photographed him using it. It may have been a true "harpoon" and Ishi didn't have the resources to make the cord and the toggle type harpoon tips, but I digress............