First Impressions of the IGFA Headquarters

The first time I visited the International Game Fish Association’s (IGFA) headquarters and Library of Fishes in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, I was truly amazed. The number of books, photographs and fishing memorabilia were an incredible thing to see firsthand. It’s a place where you get a chance to go back in history with the pioneers of our sport and comprehend the differences in the equipment and accessibility we have today. During this tour I signed up as an IGFA member and have been one ever since.

The History and Mission of IGFA

Founded in 1939 by Michael Lerner, the IGFA office was originally located in the American Museum of Natural History in New York but after outgrowing the offices there, it was moved to different locations in Florida, eventually to where it resides today in Dania Beach. The IGFA’s original mission was to encourage the study of gamefishes, set and maintain the highest standards of ethics and create rules, accordingly, encourage recreational angling and data accumulation, and maintain a listing of world record catches. They have stayed true to this mission and now also focus toward conservation of all gamefish as well.  

IGFA’s Role in Setting Standards

Since its inception, the IGFA has become the keeper of all fresh and saltwater records and has also set the standardized rules for fishermen and tournaments around the globe. In 1999 they also started the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame, which recognizes extraordinary achievements in recreational fishing around the world by anglers, captains, scientists, conservationists, writers, and fishing industry leaders. On every fishing program I have been involved with, we have always practiced strict IGFA rules, with the exception of getting a rod to the chair for some anglers on the heavy tackle.  

Importance of Adhering to IGFA Rules

I was also fortunate to have IGFA representative Richard Richardson as an angler on a tournament team for several years and I asked Richardson his thoughts on the subject of IGFA rules. “The bottom line is these regulations level the playing field for anyone willing to follow them, specifically when it comes to tackle, including rod, reel, line and how to capture fish,” he said. “It’s hard to compare a fish caught using IGFA rules and one that has not, because there is no longer any common denominator. You cannot determine how a fish will fight or what type of skill it will take to catch it, but you can establish a baseline that makes comparisons ethical and comparable world-wide.”

Encouraging Future Generations 

I’ve always believed that if you fish according to IGFA rules every day, there’s less chance of making a mistake when a tournament fish or a possible record is on the line. Sadly, I’ve noticed that some crews have slowly strayed away from IGFA rules for whatever reasons, but I would hope to see more of our younger crews getting back to IGFA standards and practices as well as signing on as members for the future of our sport and industry.

Fishing without adhering to IGFA standards can jeopardize your success, especially during tournaments or when pursuing record catches. By not following these established guidelines, you risk disqualifying yourself and your team without even realizing it. Embracing IGFA angling rules ensures a level playing field and maintains the integrity of the sport. To safeguard your achievements and uphold the highest ethical standards, it’s crucial to learn and consistently practice IGFA rules, benefiting both your personal performance and the broader fishing community.