The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) recently announced that it is adopting new language to the organization’s rules pertaining to the use of power-driven reels, most commonly referred to as “electric reels.” These reels have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially within the recreational swordfish fishery. To preface the new language outlined in detail below, the IGFA would like to stress …
IGFA Record Set for Pacific Bluefin Tuna
A new record has officially been set for Pacific bluefin tuna on 30 lb line by Robert Webster of Southern California. Webster’s first record, the IGFA Men’s 15-kg (30 lb) Line Class World Record Pacific bluefin tuna weighed in at 215 pounds. On July 26, 2020, he set out off Southern California on his 40’ sportfishing yacht, Magellan, in search of …
New Jersey & Florida Fishing Charters Re-Open
In an executive order last week, Gov. Phil Murphy cleared fishing charters in New Jersey to resume while operating under strict guidelines to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, including limiting vessel capacity to 10 people and requiring crew and passengers to wear masks. Social distancing, sanitation of heads after each use, and other requirements are in effect, including the …
Florida Grouper Season Opens
Grouper season in Atlantic state waters in Florida is May 1st until December 31st. Grouper are managed differently in Gulf versus Atlantic and in state versus federal waters. Here are the regulations for Atlantic state waters, which are from shore to 3 nautical miles. Size Limits The minimum size limit for gag and black grouper is 24” total length, the …
Pat Ford’s Vigilance and Ron Hamlin’s Sternness Pay Off For a White Marlin Record on Fly
Photo Credit: Pat Ford Here’s the story behind one of many of Pat Ford’s IGFA fly-fishing records for white marlin, as told by Release Boatworks founder Jim Turner. Yesterday my friends Herb Rosell, Chris Sheeder and I were able to spend the day peacock bass fishing on the “world famous” E-Lake in Miami. We were hosted by our friend Pat …
The Ultimate 2019 Boat Shows Guide
Whether you’re looking into buying a new boat, looking to learn about new boat releases, talk directly with local dealers, or you just enjoy the company of boating and fishing enthusiasts like yourself, then going to boat shows can be great fun for the whole family. 2019 is around the corner – so check out this ultimate guide of upcoming …