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IGFA Mourns Passing of Hall of Fame Member and Trustee Emeritus Donald J. Tyson (high res photos available upon request) Donald ―Don‖ J. Tyson, an IGFA Hall of Fame member and Trustee Emeritus, died Thursday, January 6, 2011 following a brief illness. A longtime friend and benefactor of the IGFA, and an accomplished angler and conservationist, Don’s passing will be mourned by many in the sportfishing community. A giant in both business and billfishing, Don Tyson’s entire fishing career has been a crusade for conservation. Almost 70 years have passed since his father drove a truckload of Arkansas chickens to Chicago because he heard they were bringing a better price in northern markets. From his $235 profit he wired home $220 – to pay debts and buy more chickens. This was the first long-haul trip from Arkansas to the more lucrative Chicago poultry markets, and John Tyson was the pioneer. The Tyson Feed and Hatchery began in 1947 and five years later Don Tyson joined his father in the business. In 1966 he became president, and the following year he took over control of the company after losing his parents in an accident. By 1994 Tyson Foods had become the 110th largest manufacturing company on the Fortune 500 list, and today the company is the top provider of protein products on the planet. Don Tyson started big-game fishing to see places his father only dreamed of. ―My dad worked all his life and had never taken off any time before he was killed. I made myself a deal that I would start taking off one week per month when I was 40 years old, and I pretty much did it,‖ he once said. He caught his first billfish in Bimini in the mid-1960s, a 400 lb blue marlin. But Tyson soon realized that these beautiful creatures were meant to swim in oceans, not hang on docks, and he began releasing his catches. His skippers and deckhands, who had been selling each billfish for $50, were horrified by this turn of events. Tyson solved the problem by giving them $100 a fish to let them go. Since that first fishing trip to the Bahamas Don Tyson’s traveled everywhere, and his vessels are as recognizable as he was. Horizons, his 103-ft supply boat, carried 33,000 gallons of fuel and 90 days' worth of supplies, making trips to remote locales, from Bali to Ghana, possible. Tyson was serious and passionate about his fishing, and was considered a superb angler. Though estimates on the number of marlin he personally caught and released range from 400 to 700, you would not hear these figures from him. He did not keep track and he did not fish for records; he simply wanted to get the fish in quickly, tag and release, because ―the fun is just catching them and turning them loose for someone else to enjoy.‖ Don Tyson gave generously of his time and finances to many organizations. His devotion to conservation and growing concern about the future of the world’s fisheries led to the creation of The Billfish Foundation in 1985. Tyson, Mel Immergut and Win Rockefeller decided something needed to be done to ensure that billfish stocks would survive for future generations. Immediately they began working on two goals: getting anglers to consistently think and practice tag-and-release and convincing billfish tournaments to not kill every fish. Over the past 25 years, the organization has made great strides in both. An IGFA Trustee Emeritus, Don Tyson was Building Committee Co-Chairman for the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum. The single largest contributor to the Museum, he personally ensured that the 63,000 square foot building and headquarters for the International Game Fish Association became a reality. Tyson envisioned – and helped make a reality -- a state-of-the-art facility that would preserve the sport he loves, inspire new generations of anglers, and instill in the thousands of school-age children who visit annually, the visitors he’s most excited about, the joys
of fishing and a respect for our resources. At the grand opening in January 1999, the Board of Trustees dedicated the Museum to Donald J. Tyson in appreciation for his leadership, vision and commitment. It is with great pleasure that IGFA adds to its list of Hall of Fame honorees the name of Don Tyson, a very private philanthropist and a very public conservationist, who is dedicated to the cause of conserving the world’s great fish for future generations. Don was preceded in death by his father John W. and his step-mother Helen Knoll Tyson, as well as his mother Mildred Tyson; and, by his wife Twilla Jean Womochil Tyson and his brother Randal Tyson. He is survived by his son, John Tyson and three daughters, Carla Tyson, Cheryl Tyson and Joslyn J. Caldwell-Tyson; his sister-in-law Barbara Tyson; as well as two grandchildren, John Randal Tyson and Olivia Laine Tyson; and, long-time friends Gloria Gray, Ramona Caldwell, Shelby Rogers and Melissa Ramsey. A public memorial service is being planned, with details to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Billfish Foundation, The Mayo Clinic and the Dale Bumpers College of Agriculture, Food and Life Sciences at the University of Arkansas. To make a donation to The Billfish Foundation in Tyson's honor, visit www.billfish.org/sections/182.
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New Year Starts with New All-Tackle Length Record Category (high res photos available upon request) New Year’s Day rang in more than a new year for fans of catch-and-release fishing; with the beginning of 2011 came the opening of the IGFA’s new 100% release All-Tackle Length World Record category. Although the IGFA has never required a fish to be killed for its traditional weight record categories, this new all-release category emphasizes and rewards those anglers who are truly dedicated to keeping fish in the water. ―At the end of the first week of the year we had already heard from several anglers who were out pursuing All-Tackle Length records, or asking questions to help them get started‖ said IGFA World Record Coordinator Jack Vitek. ―This is the first time since Junior Angler records debuted in 1997 that a whole new category of records has been opened, and conservation-minded anglers are really excited about getting their names in the book.‖ Planning which fish to target may be one of the most important parts of pursuing an All-Tackle Length record. Not every species is eligible for a record in this category, as some are too large, feisty, or delicate to be measured, photographed, and released so that they swim away on their own and in good condition as required by the IGFA rules and regulations. With this in mind, the IGFA has selected 60 freshwater and 67 saltwater species eligible for records based on length rather than weight. For a complete list of eligible species, as well as the rules, regulations, and application for the All-Tackle Length record category, visit http://www.igfa.org/Fish/All-Tackle-Length-Rules.aspx or contact IGFA World Record Coordinator Jack Vitek via [email protected] or 954-924-4246.
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27th Annual IGFA International Auction & Banquet Features Conservation Awards and More (high res photos of items available upon request) A staple of the angling community’s social scene, the 27
th Annual IGFA International Auction &
Banquet will take place at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida on Friday, August 28, 2011. In addition to the traditional auction, the gala event will highlight seminal people from the past year of recreational angling through presentations of Conservation Awards, the Gil Keech Heavy Tackle Award, and the Bob Herder Light Tackle Award.
Time running out for online auction The auction portion of the Palm Beach event has been preceded by online bidding for the past several years, and according to IGFA Development Manager Lesley Arico, 20 – 25% of all online bids typically win their items after final bids are placed in Palm Beach. Online bidding will end on Monday, January 24 at 9 am Eastern Standard Time, a few days prior to the live event. As in past years, online bidding is already hot for this year’s featured work of art. World renowned conservationist and marine biologist Dr. Guy Harvey has donated an original piece, entitled Sharp Turn, to this year’s event. A stunning addition to any marine enthusiast’s collection, this majestic 50‖ x 40.5‖ acrylic showcases Harvey’s expert use of color as he portrays a swordfish quickly turning to pursue his next meal.
Auction line up offers trips, boats, more More than 200 additional silent and live auction items will help raise funds for the IGFA during this year’s event. Anglers and enthusiasts can win everything from amazing artwork to world-class fishing trips, from top-notch tackle to gorgeous jewelry, and from hand-tied flies to books for armchair anglers. Whether bidding in Palm Beach or online, auction winners will be supporting the IGFA’s mission when they win any of the incredible items. Here are previews of two of the auction’s exciting offerings: TROPIC STAR LODGE IN PIÑAS BAY, PANAMA The world-renowned lodge is famous for its world-class fishing for black, blue and striped marlin, plus sails, tuna and a dozen other species. This trip for two (2) includes seven nights lodging (Saturday through Saturday only), six full days of fishing on one of their famous 31' Bertrams, all meals and non-alcoholic beverages while at the lodge and round-trip transfer (charter flight and ground) between the lodge and Panama City. There have been more the 250 IGFA World Records recorded from the lodge. This is a trip of a lifetime and must be used by the close of the season in September 2011. Donated by Piñas Bay Resorts and Tropic Star Lodge, courtesy of Mike and Terri Andrews, IGFA Trustee. www.tropicstar.com 2011 MAKO 212 CENTER CONSOLE At 21' 5" (6.53 m) long and an astonishing 8' 6" (2.59 m) wide, the MAKO 212 Center Console is one broad-beamed fishing machine. And every inch is used to enhance your fishing in every way imaginable. There’s the wide-open cockpit that allows for maximum maneuverability while casting or working a fish, as well as letting you fish from all sides. Cavernous fish boxes at the bow can be used as either dry storage or to keep everything you catch on ice. And since this boat is a MAKO all the way, it’s also bred to run with our legendary smooth- and dry-riding hull design. This 2011 model includes a foam-injected hull with a one-piece integrated fiberglass stringer grid, port and starboard aft swim platforms, stern lounge with port and starboard jump seats, under-gunwale port and starboard racks for six rods, gunwale-mounted stainless steel rod holders with
MAKO logo, anodized aluminum leaning post with rod holders, center console with analog gauges, cup holders, electronics mounting surface, aluminum grab rail, acrylic windscreen and head enclosure, forward console seat, port and starboard bow seating with insulated fish boxes with drains below . The trailer is a tandem axle aluminum trailer custom matched to the boat. And to round it all off is the 250 Mercury Verado motor. Mercury is the ―Official Outboard of the IGFA.‖ All that combined with our unique transom design makes the 212 CC a spacious offshore angler that will never cramp your style—or your fishing! Donated by Tracker Marine, courtesy of Johnny Morris. www.trackermarine.com www.mercurymarine.com Tickets for the gala are $200 per person and include the silent auction, Conservation Awards, dinner and live auction plus free valet parking. Corporate tables for 10 are also available for $3000 which includes VIP placement, table favors, and an ad in the auction program. For more information or to make reservations, please contact Lesley Arico at 954-924-4222 or email [email protected].
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Inaugural IGFA Legendary Captains and Crew Awards & Dinner Following Billfish Expo How many great catches and world records can be credited in part to a knowledgeable captain and skilled crew? The number may be impossible to calculate, but anglers around the world can testify to the advantage an excellent captain and crew provide. On Saturday 12 February from 6 – 10 pm at the IGFA Hall of Fame & Museum in Dania Beach, Florida, the IGFA will recognize six of the legendary men who have contributed to the tapestry of incredible recreational angling. Guests are invited to share and re-live the moments that have shaped their careers on the water at the inaugural IGFA Legendary Captains and Crew Awards & Dinner. IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame member Mark Sosin will emcee as honorees Ron Hamlin, Omie Tillet, Allen Merritt, Buddy Merritt, Charles Perry, and Charlie Hayden share their stories during the sit-down dinner and awards ceremony. Seating is limited to 250 people, and tickets are $60 per person. Tables are still available. For more information, please call Lindsey Caldwell at 954-924-4242 or [email protected]. Earlier in the day, the IGFA Hall of Fame & Museum will host the second annual Billfish Expo from 9 am to 4 pm Speakers include Captain John Dudas, David Fields, Bark Garnsey, Ray Rosher, Skip Smith, Karl Anderson, and many more covering tournament strategies, daytime swordfishing, satellite tagging and an array of other topics. Tickets are $65 for a full day of the best tips and techniques around! For more information, visit https://www.billfishexpo.com or call 954-531-7985.
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Fishing’s Most Valuable Record Book Has Arrived! (high res photo of cover available upon request) It’s been described as ―the most comprehensive piece of fishing information available anywhere,‖ a statement made often by serious fishermen and fishing writers alike. The IGFA’s 2011 World Record Game Fishes annual -- the reference book that’s a mainstay in recreational fishing -- continues its legacy as the most reliable and complete resource book of worldwide fishing records and a wide range of fishing-related reference materials. Plus it includes in-depth and entertaining features by top writers across the globe. IGFA members will begin receiving their 424 page edition in mid-January as one of the many benefits of joining the IGFA. The popular annual is the official guide to saltwater and freshwater catches for over 1100 species around the world in the all-tackle category and nearly 400 species in line class, fly, and junior angler record categories, plus the newly added length record category for 127 species in 2011. To receive your copy of the 2011 World Record Game Fishes book and learn about all the other great benefits of being a member of the IGFA, go to http://www.igfa.org/ and sign up.
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Mexico IGFA Representatives Meet with President Rob Kramer to Discuss Recreational Issues (high res photos available upon request) The Mexico contingent of the IGFA’s International Committee of Representatives met in Playa Mujeres, Cancún, last month to discuss issues facing recreational angling. Chief among the topics shared were commercial impacts on Mexico recreational fisheries and promoting conservation through the practice of catch and release angling. Representatives also discussed expanding youth education programs and unifying the presence of recreational anglers in Mexico. IGFA President Rob Kramer joined the assembly of nine Mexico Representatives at La Amada Marina on December 17, 2010. In attendance were Representatives Luis Fernando Adachi Koyama, Enrique Caraza González, Ricardo Hernández Carrasco, Nassim Joaquín Delbouis, Anthony Mendillo, Jr., Monty Padilla, Joan Rayo, Angel Luis Requejo Gutiérrez, and Felipe Jesús Valdez Vázquez. ―It is important for our International Representatives to periodically meet as a group,‖ remarked Kramer. ―Many of the issues facing recreational anglers in Mexico are the same issues facing anglers in the United States, Europe, and elsewhere. Progress can only be made if there is good communication and cooperation to achieve our goals.‖ For a full list of all of the IGFA’s International Committee of Representatives, visit http://www.igfa.org/About/INTERNATIONAL-COMMITTEE.aspx.
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January Hot Catches (high res photos of catches available upon request) Peacocks and snapper and salmon, oh my! World Record Coordinator Jack Vitek shares some of the latest lunkers to cross the application desk at IGFA headquarters. Eight great catches from Japan, Russia, Brazil, Suriname, Laos, and the United States make up this month’s report, along with two new additions to the IGFA’s special clubs. Angler Gustavo T. De Andrade of Curitiba, Brazil, was fishing with guide Guilherme Neves Valentini on October 17, 2010 when he landed a monster cubera snapper (Lutjanus cyanopterus). Andrade and Valentini were fishing Guaratuba, Brazil when this 39.13 kg (86 lb 4 oz) fish hit the shrimp that Gustavo had for bait. After 3 hours and 5 minutes, Andrade had landed this new potential men’s 8 kg (16 lb) line class record. The current IGFA record is 29.93 kg (66 lb 0 oz). Smallfry angler Joshua James Boyer, of Billings, Montana, USA, guided by his father Jim Boyer, landed this beautiful 5.22 kg (11 lb 8 oz) walleye (Sander vitreus) on November 6, 2010, while fishing the Missouri River, Montana, USA. The 7 year old Boyer needed only 4 minutes to land this new male Smallfry record fish after it hit the buzzbait he was casting. The current IGFA record is 4.98 kg (11 lb 0 oz). 2010 was a hot year for the Atlantic salmon (landlocked) (Salmo salar); with a new All-Tackle record being caught by European angler Frank Jensen this past summer in Sweden. Almost four months later, on October 22, 2010, angler Thomas Aufiero of Lafayette, Indiana, USA landed this 12.13 kg (26 lb 12 oz) specimen while fishing Torch Lake, Michigan, USA. Aufiero was fishing with guide Matthew Supinski and was casting a Great Lakes Shrimp fly. After the fish hit, Aufiero needed 18 minutes to land this potential All-Tackle and 03 kg (6 lb) tippet class record fish. The
angler was able to release the fish alive after it was weighed, photographed and measured. The current IGFA record is 11.2 kg (24 lb 11 oz). Japanese angler Hideyuki Nemoto and guide Seiichiro Tashiro were jigging off Iki Island, Japan on November 19, 2010 when Nemoto hooked into something enormous. After a grueling 40 minute fight, the angler and guide had successfully boated this new potential All-Tackle and men’s 15 kg (30 lb) line class record greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili). Nemoto’s AJ weighed in at a massive 71.15 kg (156 lb 13 oz) and was caught on a MC Works jig. The current IGFA record is 70.59 kg (155 lb 10 oz). Angler Dale C. Fischer of Tracy, Minnesota, USA traveled to Southeast Asia in early December to fish with guide Jean-Francois Helias to escape the cold weather of Minnesota and to chase record freshwater fish. While fishing Luang Prabang, Laos on December 1, 2010, Fischer landed a potential new All-Tackle Mekong pangasius (Pangasius mekongensis) weighing in at 8.94 kg (19 lb 11 oz). Fischer only needed 10 minutes to land the fish after it hit the bread and rice flour mixture he was using for bait. The fish was release alive after being photographed, weighed and measured. The current IGFA record is 8.36 kg (18 lb 6 oz). Angler Maxim Sazonov, of Moscowskaya, Russia caught and released this potential 60 kg (130 lb) line class record taimen (Hucho taimen) while fishing the Shevly River, Russia, with guide Skorkhodov Maxim on October 8, 2010. Sazonoz was using a Blue Fox Salmon Bait, and needed 28 minutes to land this 35 kg (77 lb 2 oz) beast. The current IGFA record is 10.99 kg (24 lb 4oz). The Rio Negro, Brazil is famous for producing huge world record quality peacock bass, as angler Andrea Zaccherini of Cravinhos, Brazil found out on November 3, 2010. While casting his Caribe Lures Pavon Pop topwater plug in Santa Isabel, Rio Negro, Brazil, Zaccherini hooked up to this 13.19 kg (29 lb 1 oz) potential new All-Tackle speckled peacock (Cichla temensis). Zaccherini was fishing alone, and needed only 3.5 minutes to land this new potential All-Tackle monster. The current IGFA record is 12.7 kg (28 lb 0 oz). Experienced angler and record hunter Martini Arostegui of Coral Gables, Florida, USA traveled to Suriname this past December to fish the Kabelebo River with guide Karel Dawson, in search of giant trahira. Arostegui was not disappointed, as he landed this new potential 08 kg (16 lb) line class record trahira (Hoplias spp.) on December 17, 2010. Arostegui’s fish weighed in at 12.7 kg (28 lb 0 oz), and was landed in 5 min after the fish hit the walapa (cut bait) he was using for bait. This fish was released alive after being photographed, weighed and measured. The current IGFA record is 9.1 kg (20 lb 1 oz).
New Club Members Over the past few years, the Hampl family has made a name for itself in the IGFA record hunting community. However, Christian Hampl (father) has recently turned his attention to the IGFA Slams and Clubs, particularly the Offshore Grand Slam. In less than a month, Hampl accomplished the Offshore Grand Slam not once, but twice; catching and releasing a Pacific blue marlin, a Pacific sailfish and a striped marlin all in the same day! Hampl accomplished both of his Grand Slams while fishing aboard his boat Kamila out of Golfito, Costa Rica. Some anglers go their entire lives without accomplishing this monumental feat, but Christian Hampl has done it twice in only 22 days! Congratulations to Christian Hampl on adding another angling accomplishment to the distinguished Hampl family fishing legacy.
Paul Nute submitted his third application for IGFA’s 10 lb Bonefish Club this past December; with a 10 lb 4 oz beauty that he caught while fly fishing Biscayne Bay, Florida, USA on November 23, 2010. Captain Tim Klein put Nute on the bone, and after a nice cast and the hook up, Nute had his hands full for almost 20 minutes before was able to land, weigh and release his fish. Nute was very excited about his recent catch, as he is with all of them, and wants to help IGFA in spreading the word to anglers about the prestigious 10 lb Bonefish Club! For more information on the IGFA Special Clubs, visit http://www.igfa.org/Fish/IGFA-Clubs.aspx or contact World Record Coordinator Jack Vitek at 954-924-4246 or [email protected].
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Experience the Pacific Sailfish Run Like Only Guatemala Can Provide (high res photos available upon request) It’s one of the most incredible fishing locales anywhere and the IGFA Expedition Series is once again returning to Guatemala’s Casa Vieja Lodge on April 14 – 18 for the Pacific sailfish run. How incredible is it? During last year’s three-day expedition to Casa Vieja Lodge, an amazing 190 sailfish were raised, 138 were hooked, and 63 were released - plus three marlins released on fly and two more released on conventional tackle. The anglers who made that trip said not only was the fishing ―red hot,‖ it was an adventure they’ll remember for a lifetime. Leading the 2011 expedition as the trip’s host is Mark Sosin, the man who wrote the rules for saltwater fly fishing. Best known for his ground-breaking 20-year television show Mark Sosin’s Saltwater Journal, he’s also an award-winning writer, photographer and television producer, and an authority on both freshwater and saltwater angling. A 2004 IGFA Hall of Fame Inductee, Sosin calls Guatemala’s Casa Vieja Lodge, ―truly one of the best fishing destinations in the world.‖ IGFA Development Director Eric Combast added, ―Fishing the famous Guatemala sailfish grounds in this beautiful Central America country follows in the footsteps of the early game fish pioneers who explored the world in search of the greatest game fish. Our three day adventure fishing for Pacific sailfish will likely turn up other top game species such as Pacific blue marlin and dorado which live in the surrounding waters.‖ The cost for this all-inclusive IGFA Expedition is $6,950 per angler and $2,500 for non-anglers and includes all in-country transfers, lodging, meals and cocktails. Fees do not include airfare to/from Guatemala City and any incidental purchases. All guests have a private room and fish two anglers per boat. Space is limited to 12 anglers per trip. For more information on this and other exciting IGFA Expeditions go online to the IGFA website at www.igfa.org/Fish/Expedition-Series.aspx, or please call Combast at 954-924-4325 or email [email protected].
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IGFA Education Team Working to Expand International Outreach Education Programs (high res photos of international students available upon request) In many parts of the world, conserving the environment is about more than responsible choices; it’s about sustaining a way of life. Believing that youth are one of our world’s most valuable resources, the IGFA’s Outreach Education Program educates children about the importance of conserving their natural resources so that they can sustain their way of living for generations to come. After expanding the Outreach Education Program to countries outside of the United States in 2010, the IGFA is now continuing to implement their hands-on environmental education programs internationally. ―Outreach Education Programs have been successfully launched in Guatemala, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Italy and The Bahamas and we’re looking to continue the program’s growth,‖ shares IGFA Education Director David Matagiese. These nations and others like them, which have strong connections to their surrounding ecosystems, stand to benefit greatly from younger generations participating in educational programs that will demonstrate the importance of conserving their resources. ―Through the IGFA’s past experiences teaching tens of thousands of children around the country, we’ve learned that it is much more effective to teach children how to think rather than what to think. We will be working very closely with biologists, members of the fishing community, and local educators who have been teaching school implemented programs for several years to children of various ages.‖ By working in unison with local role models, and combining sound education practices with well-developed lesson plans, the IGFA hopes to create a comfortable learning environment to maximize time spent during these programs. By immersing children in the local ecosystems and studying the interactions that take place there first hand, programs and workshops will show a cause-and-effect relationship that will create lasting memories. By using these highly interactive methods, children will be able to understand what happens after plastic bags are blown out into the surrounding waters and what they can do to stop this and other problems from taking place. For more information about his program or any IGFA Educational or Outreach programs, please contact IGFA Education Director David Matagiese at [email protected].
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IGFA School of Sportfishing pros at Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show While checking out the latest fishing gadgets or considering a new skiff at the upcoming 23
rd
Annual Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show in Miami Beach, anglers will also be able to pick up hot tips and tricks from some of the most experienced fishermen on the water. The IGFA’s highly acclaimed School of Sportfishing will host eight mini-sessions on site and throughout the show with some of South Florida’s best captains and professional anglers. The eight featured IGFA School of Sportfishing captains and instructors will include Karl Anderson, Jamie Bunn, Tony DiGiulian, Mike Holliday, Rick Murphy, and more. With specialties both inshore and offshore, the mini-sessions will be a feature of the Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show that no angler will want to miss.
All of the sessions are free, just show up! The seminars will take place February 17 – 20 and run daily from 11am – 6:30pm. The Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show is a multi-million dollar presentation of yachts including the world's most extraordinary and uniquely designed yachts and superyachts from the world's foremost custom boat builders. For more information on the Miami Yacht & Brokerage show, visit http://www.showmanagement.com/miami_boat_show/event/. To learn more about the IGFA School of Sportfishing mini-sessions and regular classes, contact IGFA Education Coordinator Jeff Mackin at [email protected] or 954-924-4340.
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Next IGFA Observer Training Course Scheduled for February 19 Experienced anglers can help keep fish off the docks by taking an IGFA Observer Training Course. The IGFA began offering these courses as a conservation initiative to allow offshore billfish tournaments to adopt 100% release formats. With the pressing decline of many billfish stocks, the importance of release formats in tournaments has increased – and also grown in popularity as conservation awareness has risen. The IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum in Dania Beach, Fla., is the site for the next IGFA Observer Training Course to be presented on Saturday, February 19 at 9 a.m. The class instructs experienced anglers, boat captains and crew members as observers for fishing tournaments held across the globe. The popular course includes species identification, IGFA saltwater fishing rules and tackle regulations, safety at sea and boating etiquette. The IGFA OTC applications are available at http://www.igfa.org/Fish/Observer-Training.aspx. Pre-registration is required and the $150 fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials, and a one-year membership in the IGFA. Please contact IGFA Conservation Director Jason Schratwieser at 954-924-4320 or [email protected] for additional information.
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New vineyard vines IGFA Ties (high res photos available upon request) Stylish anglers looking for a fashionable edge this season will be excited to see the new line of IGFA ties from vineyard vines. Available in an array of colors and bonefish, starfish, trout and shark prints, each tie is made of 100% imported, printed silk and handmade in the USA. Visit the IGFA store at http://store.igfa.org to order yours today! vineyard vines’ affiliation with the IGFA reinforces their commitment to the sportfishing community. The IGFA Collection by vineyard vines is part of the company’s two-year partnership as an Official Sportswear Sponsor of the IGFA. Additionally, vineyard vines is an Official Sponsor of the IGFA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, one of the most prestigious annual events in the world of recreational angling. Be on the lookout for vineyard vines’ Tied to a Cause program in February, when the IGFA will be a featured partner and benefit from the proceeds of online sales of custom accessories. To learn more about vineyard vines, visit www.vineyardvines.com.
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In the IGFA Hall of Fame & Museum
The Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum NEW Benefit The IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum is now part of Bank of America's Museums on Us® program. Just show your non-expired Bank of America/Merrill Lynch debit or credit card along with a valid photo ID for free admission on the first full weekend of each month. Free Admission for cardholder only; no other discounts or offers apply.
In the Changing Gallery: "Marc Montocchio: A Life in the Sea" An exhibition of photographs by internationally known underwater photographer Marc Montocchio is now open. Unlike ordinary ink on paper photos, Montocchio's photographs are produced as dye-sublimation prints on sheets of highly polished aluminum, giving the images a brilliant, high-definition effect. Born and reared in South Africa, Montocchio's work has taken him on expeditions all over the world, producing cutting-edge photographs of ocean life. The beauty and intimate nature of the work will have broad appeal for anyone who loves marine life and has an interest in its conservation. Montocchio's work will be on display in the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum Changing Gallery through April 2011. For more information visit www.occhioinc.com.
Save the date for the Second IGFA Fishing Expo The IGFA Fishing Expo 2011 is March 26-27, 2011. Dozens of vendors, pro demonstrations, giveaways, and kid's activities will make this the fishing event for anglers of all ages. This free event will highlight tackle, tournaments, motors, and more. Destination anglers will find information and deals on lodges, locations, and charters throughout Florida and Central and South America. Several marine artists will also be on hand for the weekend, with mediums ranging from oil to bronze. On Saturday evening, fishing devotees can attend IGFA's 8th Annual World Record Achievement Awards, presented by Mercury Marine, recognizing anglers and companies with the most world records in 2010. This is sure to be a weekend jam-packed with fishing fun! During the Fishing Expo, admission to the Museum is just half price ($4) for adults, and children get in free! Visiting the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum during the Fishing Expo will satisfy every fishing curiosity - and inspire some new ones! The IGFA Fishing Expo 2011 will take place Saturday-Sunday March 26-27, 2011 from 10am - 6pm each day, and is free to the public. For exhibitor information contact Denise Hartman at 954-924-4243 or [email protected] or Joanie Tomlin at 954-924-4312 or [email protected].
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Calendar of Upcoming Events:
January 28, 2011 -- 27th Annual IGFA Auction & Banquet at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Fla., USA,
beginning at 6 p.m. -- It’s the IGFA’s biggest fundraising event each year with a vast array of nearly 200 silent and live fishing auction items expected to up for bid. Donations are arriving daily including trips, cruises, artwork, fishing gear and more. For two months leading up to the auction the popular on-line portion of the auction is featured on the IGFA website at www.igfa.org. Tickets for the banquet are $200 per person and include the silent auction, IGFA Conservation Awards, dinner, live auction and free valet parking. Corporate tables for 10 are also available for $3000 which includes VIP placement, table favors, an ad in the auction program and more. To make a donation to the auction or for reservations and additional information please contact Ms. Lesley Arico at 954-924-4222 or [email protected].
February 5 – 6, 2011 – IGFA Hall of Fame & Museum Open Free for Bank of America Cardholders --
The IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum is now part of Bank of America's Museums on Us® program. Just show your non-expired Bank of America/Merrill Lynch debit or credit card along with a valid photo ID for free admission on the first full weekend of each month. Free Admission for cardholder only; no other discounts or offers apply.
February 12, 2011 – Second Annual Billfish Expo – IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum, Dania Beach, Fla. USA – 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. -- Speakers include Captain John Dudas, David Fields, Bark Garnsey, Ray Rosher, Skip Smith, Karl Anderson, and many more covering tournament strategies,
daytime swordfishing, satellite tagging and an array of other topics. Tickets are $65 for a full day of the best tips and techniques around! For more information, visit https://www.billfishexpo.com or call 954-531-7985.
February 12, 2011 – Legendary Captains and Crew Awards & Dinner – IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum, Dania Beach, Fla. USA – 6 p.m. 10 p.m. -- IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame member Mark Sosin will emcee as honorees Ron Hamlin, Omie Tillet, Allen Merritt, Buddy Merritt, Charles Perry, and Charlie Hayden share their stories during the sit-down dinner and awards ceremony. Seating is limited to 250 people, and tickets are $60 per person. Tables are still available. For more information, please call Lindsey Caldwell at 954-924-4242 or [email protected].
February 17 – 20, 2011 – IGFA School of Sortfishing Mini-Sessions at Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show – Miami Beach – 11:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. daily -- The IGFA’s highly acclaimed School of Sportfishing will
host eight mini-sessions on site and throughout the show with some of South Florida’s best captains and professional anglers including Karl Anderson, Jamie Bunn, Tony DiGiulian, Mike Holliday, Rick Murphy,
and more. With specialties both inshore and offshore, the mini-sessions will be a feature of the Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show that no angler will want to miss. To learn more about the IGFA School of Sportfishing mini-sessions and regular classes, contact IGFA Education Coordinator Jeff Mackin at [email protected] or
954-924-4340. February 19, 2011 – IGFA Observer Training Course – IGFA Hall of Fame & Museum, Dania Beach, Fla. USA – 9 a.m. - The popular course includes species identification, IGFA saltwater fishing rules and
tackle regulations, safety at sea and boating etiquette. The IGFA OTC applications are available at http://www.igfa.org/Fish/Observer-Training.aspx. Pre-registration is required and the $150 fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials, and a one-year membership in the IGFA. Please contact IGFA Conservation Director Jason Schratwieser at 954-924-4320 or [email protected] for additional
information. March 5 – 6, 2011 - IGFA Hall of Fame & Museum Open Free for Bank of America Cardholders -- The
IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum is now part of Bank of America's Museums on Us® program. Just show your non-expired Bank of America/Merrill Lynch debit or credit card along with a valid photo ID for free admission on the first full weekend of each month. Free Admission for cardholder only; no other discounts or offers apply.
March 26-27, 2011 -- The IGFA Fishing Expo 2011 -- IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. -- Dozens of vendors, pro demonstrations, giveaways, and kid’s
activities makes this the fishing event for anglers of all ages. This free event highlights an array of tackle, tournaments, motors, and more. Destination anglers will find information and deals on lodges, locations, and charters throughout Florida and Central and South America. Several marine artists will also be on hand on Saturday and Sunday with mediums ranging from oil to bronze. During the free Fishing Expo, admission to the Museum is just half price ($4) for adults, and children get in free. For exhibitor information contact Denise Hartman at 954-924-4243 or [email protected] or Joanie Tomlin at 954-924-4312 or [email protected].
March 26, 2011 -- IGFA’s Eighth Annual World Record Achievement Awards -- IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 6 p.m. This celebration dinner and awards ceremony
presented by Mercury Marine, highlights the 2010 angling records by men, women, juniors, professional captains and tackle manufacturers across the globe. For reservations, tickets and more information for this ceremony please call Lesley Arico 954-924-4222 or [email protected].
April 2 – 3, 2011 -- IGFA Hall of Fame & Museum Open Free for Bank of America Cardholders -- The
IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum is now part of Bank of America's Museums on Us® program. Just show your non-expired Bank of America/Merrill Lynch debit or credit card along with a valid photo ID for free admission on the first full weekend of each month. Free Admission for cardholder only; no other discounts or offers apply. April 14 – 18, 2011 – IGAF Expedition: Guatemala – Casa Vieja Lodge, Guatemala -- The cost for this
all-inclusive IGFA Expedition is $6,950 per angler and $2,500 for non-anglers and includes all in-country transfers, lodging, meals and cocktails. Fees do not include airfare to/from Guatemala City and any incidental purchases. All guests have a private room and fish two anglers per boat. Space is limited to 12 anglers per trip. For more information on this and other exciting IGFA Expeditions go online to the IGFA website at www.igfa.org/Fish/Expedition-Series.aspx, or please call Eric Combast at 954-924-4325 or email
