The following angling rules have been formulated by the International Game Fish Association to promote ethical and sporting angling practices, to establish uniform regulations for the compilation of world game fish records, and to provide basic angling guidelines for use in fishing tournaments and any other group angling activities. The word “angling” is defined as catching or attempting to catch fish with a rod, reel, line, and hook as outlined in the international angling rules. There are some aspects of angling that cannot be controlled through rule making, however. Angling regulations cannot insure an outstanding performance from each fish, and world records cannot indicate the amount of difficulty in catching the fish. Captures in which the fish has not fought or has not had a chance to fight do not reflect credit on the fisherman, and only the angler can properly evaluate the degree of achievement in establishing the record. Only fish caught in accordance with IGFA international angling rules, and within the intent of these rules, will be considered for world records. Following are the rules for freshwater and saltwater fishing and a separate set of rules for fly fishing.

RULES FOR FISHING IN FRESH AND SALT WATER

Equipment Regulations

A. LINE

1. Monofilament, multifilament, and lead core multifilament lines may be used. For line classes, see World Record Requirements.

2. Wire lines are prohibited.

B. LINE BACKING

1. Backing not attached to the fishing line is permissible with no restrictions as to size or material.

2. If the fishing line is attached to the backing, the catch shall be classified under the heavier of the two lines. The backing may not exceed the 130 lb (60 kg) line class and must be of a type of line approved for use in these angling rules.

C. DOUBLE LINE

The use of a double line is not required. If one is used, it must meet the following specifications:

1. A double line must consist of the actual line used to catch the fish.

2. Double lines are measured from the start of the knot, braid, roll or splice making the double to the farthermost end of the knot, splice, snap, swivel or other device used for securing the trace, leader, lure or hook to the double line.

Saltwater species:

In all line classes up to and including 20 lb (10 kg), the double line shall be limited to 15 feet (4.57 meters). The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 20 feet (6.1 meters). The double line on all classes of tackle over 20 lb (10 kg) shall be limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters). The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 40 feet (12.19 meters).

Freshwater species:

The double line on all classes of tackle shall not exceed 6 feet (1.82 meters). The combined length of the double line and the leader shall not exceed 10 feet (3.04 meters).

D. LEADER

The use of a leader is not required. If one is used, it must meet the following specifications:

The length of the leader is the overall length including any lure, hook arrangement or other device. The leader must be connected to

the line with a snap, knot, splice, swivel or other device. Holding devices are prohibited. There are no regulations regarding the material or strength of the leader.

Saltwater species:

In all line classes up to and including 20 lb (10 kg), the leader shall be limited to 15 feet (4.57 meters). The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 20 feet (6.1 meters). The leader on all classes of tackle over 20 lb (10 kg) shall be limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters). The combined length of the double line and leader shall be limited to 40 feet (12.19 meters).

Freshwater species:

The leader on all classes of tackle shall be limited to 6 feet (1.82 meters). The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 10 feet (3.04 meters).

E. ROD

1. Rods must comply with sporting ethics and customs. Considerable latitude is allowed in the choice of a rod, but rods giving the angler an unfair advantage will be disqualified. This rule is intended to eliminate the use of unconventional rods.

2. The rod tip must be a minimum of 40 inches (101.6 cm) in length. The rod butt cannot exceed 27 inches (68.58 cm) in length. These measurements must be made from a point directly beneath the center of the reel. A curved butt is measured in a straight line. When the rod butt is placed in a gimbal, the measurement from the center of the reel seat to the pivot point of the gimbal can be no more than 27 inches. (The above measurements do not apply to surfcasting rods.)

F. REEL

1. Reels must comply with sporting ethics and customs.

2. Power driven reels of any kind are prohibited. This includes motor, hydraulic, or electrically driven reels, and any device that gives the angler an unfair advantage.

3. Ratchet handle reels are prohibited.

4. Reels designed to be cranked with both hands at the same time are prohibited.

G. HOOKS FOR BAIT FISHING

1. For live or dead bait fishing no more than two single hooks may be used. Both must be firmly imbedded in or securely attached to the bait. The eyes of the hooks must be no less than a hook's length (the length of the largest hook used) apart and no more than 18 inches (45.72 cm) apart. The only exception is that the point of one hook may be passed through the eye of the other hook.

2. The use of a dangling or swinging hook is prohibited. Double or treble hooks are prohibited.

3. A two-hook rig for bottom fishing is acceptable if it consists of two single hooks on separate leaders or drops. Both hooks must be imbedded in the respective baits and separated sufficiently so that a fish caught on one hook cannot be foul-hooked by the other.

4. A photograph or sketch of the hook arrangement must accompany all record applications made for fish caught on two-hook tackle.

H. HOOKS AND LURES

1. When using an artificial lure with a skirt or trailing material, no more than two single hooks may be attached to the line, leader, ortrace. The hooks need not be attached separately. The eyes of the hooks must be no less than an overall hook's length (the overall length of the largest hook used) apart and no more than 12 inches (30.48 cm) apart. The only exception is that the point of one hook may be passed through the eye of the other hook. The trailing hook may not extend more than a hook's length beyond the skirt of the lure. A photograph or sketch showing the hook arrangement must accompany a record application.

2. Gang hooks are permitted when attached to plugs and other artificial lures that are specifically designed for this use. Gang hooks must be free swinging and shall be limited to a maximum of three hooks (single, double, or treble, or a combination of any three). Baits may not be used with gang hooks. A photograph or sketch of the plug or lure must be submitted with record applications.

I. OTHER EQUIPMENT

1. Fighting chairs may not have any mechanically propelled devices that aid the angler in fighting a fish.

2. Gimbals must be free swinging, which includes gimbals that swing in a vertical plane only. Any gimbal that allows the angler to reduce strain or to rest while fighting the fish is prohibited.

3. Gaffs and nets used to boat or land a fish must not exceed 8 feet (2.44 meters) in overall length. In using a flying or detachable gaff the rope may not exceed 30 feet (9.14 meters). The gaff rope must be measured from the point where it is secured to the detachable head to the other end. Only the effective length will be considered. If a fixed head gaff is used, the same limitations shall apply and the gaff rope shall be measured from the same location on the gaff hook. Only a single hook is permitted on any gaff. Harpoon or lance attachments are prohibited. Tail ropes are limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters). (When fishing from a bridge, pier, or other high platform or structure, this length limitation does not apply.)

4. Entangling devices, either with or without a hook, are prohibited and may not be used for any purpose including baiting, hooking, fighting, or landing the fish.

5. Outriggers, downriggers, spreader bars and kites are permitted to be used provided that the actual fishing line is attached to the snap or other release device, either directly or with some other material. The leader or double line may not be connected to the release mechanism either directly or with the use of a connecting device. Spreader bars are also acceptable when used strictly as a teaser.

6. Daisy chains, birds, floats and similar devices may only be used if they do not unfairly hamper or inhibit the normal swimming or fighting ability of the fish, thereby giving the angler or crew an unfair advantage in fighting, landing or boating the fish.

7. A safety line may be attached to the rod provided that it does not in any way assist the angler in fighting the fish.

Angling Regulations

1. From the time that a fish strikes or takes a bait or lure, the angler must hook, fight, and land or boat the fish without the aid of

any other person, except as provided in these regulations.

2. If a rod holder is used and a fish strikes or takes the bait or lure, the angler must remove the rod from the holder as quickly as possible. The intent of this rule is that the angler shall strike and hook the fish with the rod in hand.

3. In the event of a multiple strike on separate lines being fished by a single angler, only the first fish fought by the angler will be considered for a world record.

4. If a double line is used, the intent of the regulations is that the fish will be fought on the single line most of the time that it takes to land the fish.

5. A harness may be attached to the reel or rod, but not to the fighting chair. The harness may be replaced or adjusted by a person other than the angler.

6. Use of a rod belt or waist gimbal is permitted.

7. When angling from a boat, once the leader is brought within the grasp of the mate, or the end of the leader is wound to the rod tip, more than one person is permitted to hold the leader.

8. One or more gaffers may be used in addition to persons holding the leader. The gaff handle must be in hand when the fish is gaffed.

9. The angling and equipment regulations shall apply until the fish is weighed.

The following acts will disqualify a catch:

1. Failure to comply with equipment or angling regulations.

2. The act of persons other than the angler in touching any part of the rod, reel, or line (including the double line) either bodily or with any device, from the time a fish strikes or takes the bait or lure, until the fish is either landed or released, or in giving any aid other than that allowed in the rules and regulations. If an obstacle to the passage of the line through the rod guides has to be removed from the line, then the obstacle (whether chum, floatline, rubber band, or other material) shall be held and cut free. Under no circumstances should the line be held or touched by anyone other than the angler during this process.

3. Resting the rod in a rod holder, on the gunwale of the boat, or any other object while playing the fish.

4. Handlining or using a handline or rope attached in any manner to the angler's line or leader for the purpose of holding or lifting the fish.

5. Shooting, harpooning, or lancing any fish (including sharks and halibuts) at any stage of the catch.

6. Chumming with or using as bait the flesh, blood, skin, or any part of mammals other than hair or pork rind used in lures designed or trolling or casting.

7. Using a boat or device to beach or drive a fish into shallow water in order to deprive the fish of its normal ability to swim.

8. Changing the rod or reel while the fish is being played.

9. Splicing, removing, or adding to the line while the fish is being played.

10. Intentionally foul-hooking a fish.

11. Catching a fish in a manner that the double line never leaves the rod tip.

12. Using a size or kind of bait that is illegal to possess.

13. Attaching the angler's line or leader to part of a boat or other object for the purpose of holding or lifting the fish.

14. If a fish escapes before gaffing or netting and is recaptured by any method other than as outlined in the angling rules.

The following situations will disqualify a catch:

1. When a rod breaks (while the fish is being played) in a manner that reduces the length of the tip below minimum dimensions or severely impairs its angling characteristics.

2. Mutilation to the fish, prior to landing or boating the catch, caused by sharks, other fish, mammals, or propellers that remove or penetrate the flesh. (Injuries caused by leader or line, scratches, old healed scars or regeneration deformities are not considered to be disqualifying injuries.) Any mutilation on the fish must be shown in a photograph and fully explained in a separate report accompanying the record application.

3. When a fish is hooked or entangled on more than one line.

Illustrated Guide to Equipment Regulations

DOUBLE LINES AND LEADERS

Double lines are measured from the start of the knot, braid, roll or splice making the double line to the farthermost end of the knot, splice, snap, swivel or other device used for securing the trace, leader lure or hook to the double line. A double line must consist of the actual line used to catch the fish. For saltwater species, the double line shall be limited to 15 feet (4.57 meters) for all line classes up to and including 20 lb (10 kg); and shall be limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters) for line classes over 20 lb (10 kg). For freshwater species, the double line on all classes of tackle shall not exceed 6 feet (1.82 meters).

The leader shall be limited to 15 feet (4.57 meters) for saltwater species in line classes up to and including 20 lb (10 kg), and 30 feet (9.14 meters) for all line classes over 20 lb (10 kg). For freshwater species, the leader on all classes of tackle shall be limited to 6 feet (1.82 meters).

The length of the leader is the overall length including any lure, hook arrangements or other device.

The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 20 ft (6.1 meters) in line classes up to and including 20 lb (10 kg) and 40 feet (12.19 meters) in line classes over 20 lb (10 kg) for saltwater species. The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 10 feet (3.04 meters) for freshwater species.

HOOKS

LEGAL if eyes of hooks no more than 18 inches (45.72 cm) apart in baits and no more than 12 inches (30.45 cm) apart in lures. ILLEGAL if eyes further apart than these distances.

NOT LEGAL as the second or trailing hook extends more than the hook’s length beyond skirt. See also two hook rigs.

NOT LEGAL in bait or lures as eyes of hooks are less than a hook’s length (the length of the largest hook) apart.

LEGAL as eyes of hooks are no less than a hook’s length apart and no more than 18 inches (45.72 cm) in baits and 12 inches (30.45 cm) in lures.

LEGAL in baits and lures. The point of one hook is passed through  the eye of the other hook.

LEGAL as eyes of hooks are no less than a hook’s length apart and no more than 12 inches (30.45 cm) apart, and the trailing hook does not extend more than a hook’s length beyond the skirt.

LEGAL as hook is contained within the skirt.

NOT LEGAL as the single hook extends more than its length beyond the skirt.

NOT LEGAL as back hook is not firmly imbedded in or securely attached to bait and is a dangling or swinging hook.

LEGAL as both hooks are firmly imbedded or securely attached to bait. Would not be legal if eyes of hooks were more than 18 inches (45.72 cm) apart.

GAFFS

LEGAL on boats if effective rope length does not exceed 30 feet (9.15 meters).

LEGAL on boats if overall gaff length does not exceed 8 feet (2.44 meters).

World Record Requirements

Game fish catches can only be considered for world record status if they are caught according to International Angling Rules. Following is information on world record categories, requirements, and procedures for filing claims. An application fee of $25 U.S. for members and $50 U.S. for non-members is required for each claim. All materials submitted become the property of IGFA.

World Record Categories

GENERAL INFORMATION

IGFA maintains world records for both freshwater and saltwater game fishes in line class, tippet class and all-tackle categories. In order to qualify for a record, a catch must be a minimum of 1 pound (.453 kg) in weight, and must exceed the existing record by the required amount or meet the minimum weight requirements, if any, for vacant records. No applications will be accepted for fish caught in hatchery waters or sanctuaries. The catch must not be at variance with any laws or regulations governing the species or the waters in which it was caught. When an additional species of game fish is made eligible for IGFA world records, the effective date will be announced. Fish caught on or after the effective date will be eligible for records. Announcement of an additional species in the World Record Game Fishes book or in other IGFA publications will be considered proper notification in lieu of any other notice.

ALL-TACKLE CATEGORY

All-Tackle world records are kept for the heaviest fish of a species caught by an angler in any line class up to 130 lb (60 kg). Fish caught on lines designed to test over the 130 lb (60 kg) class will not be considered for record claims.

All-tackle record claims are considered for all species of fish caught according to IGFA angling rules.

Applications for species not currently included in the IGFA line class and tippet class listings must meet the following criteria:

1. The fish must represent a valid species with a recognized scientific name.

2. The fish must be a species commonly fished for with rod and reel in the general area where the catch is made.

3. The fish must be identifiable based on photos and other supporting data presented with the application.

4. The fish must be considered “trophy-sized.” A rule of thumb is that the weight must fall within the top half of the estimated maximum weight of the species.

LINE CLASS & FLY ROD CATEGORIES

Line class records are kept according to the strength of the line.

Fly rod world records are maintained according to tippet strength. Each species recognized for line class records is also recognized for tippet records. Records are kept in the following line and tippet classes:

Line Classes Tippet Classes

Metric U.S. Customary

1 kg 2 lb 1 kg 2 lb

2 kg 4 lb 2 kg 4 lb

3 kg 6 lb 3 kg 6 lb

4 kg 8 lb 4 kg 8 lb

6 kg 12 lb 6 kg 12 lb

8 kg 16 lb 8 kg 16 lb

10 kg 20 lb 10 kg 20 lb

15 kg 30 lb

24 kg 50 lb

37 kg 80 lb

60 kg 130 lb

With the exception of all-tackle claims, line classes are limited for many species. Following are the maximum line classes acceptable for world record purposes in each species category:

Saltwater Species

Max. Line Class

Albacore / Thunnus alalunga 37 kg (80 lb)

Amberjack, greater / Seriola dumerili 60 kg (130 lb)

Barracuda, great / Sphyraena barracuda 37 kg (80 lb)

Barracuda, Guinean / Sphyraena afra 60 kg (130 lb)

Bass, black sea / Centropristis striata 15 kg (30 lb)

Bass, European /Dicentrarchus labrax 15 kg (30 lb)

Bass, giant sea / Stereolepis gigas 60 kg (130 lb)

Bass, kelp (calico) / Paralabrax clathratus 10 kg (20 lb)

Bass, striped / Morone saxatilis 37 kg (80 lb)

Bluefish / Pomatomus saltatrix 24 kg (50 lb)

Bonefish / Albula spp. 15 kg (30 lb)

Bonito, Atlantic / Sarda sarda 15 kg (30 lb)

Bonito, Pacific / Sarda spp. 15 kg (30 lb)

Cobia / Rachycentron canadum 37 kg (80 lb)

Cod, Atlantic / Gadus morhua 37 kg (80 lb)

Cod, Pacific / Gadus macrocephalus 24 kg (50 lb)

Conger / Conger conger 60 kg (130 lb)

Corbina, California / Menticirrhus undulatus 10 kg (20 lb)

Dentex / Dentex dentex 15 kg (30 lb)

Dolphinfish / Coryphaena hippurus 37 kg (80 lb)

Drum, black / Pogonias cromis 37 kg (80 lb)

Drum, red / Sciaenops ocellatus 37 kg (80 lb)

Flounder, summer / Paralichthys dentatus 15 kg (30 lb)

Grouper, gag / Mycteroperca microlepis 60 kg (130 lb)

Grouper, goliath / Epinephelus itajara 60 kg (130 lb)

Grouper, red / Epinephelus morio 24 kg (50 lb)

Halibut, Atlantic / Hippoglossus hippoglossus 60 kg (130 lb)

Halibut, California / Paralichthys californicus 37 kg (80 lb)

Halibut, Pacific / Hippoglossus stenolepis 60 kg (130 lb)

Jack, almaco / Seriola rivoliana 60 kg (130 lb)

Jack, crevalle / Caranx hippos 24 kg (50 lb)

Jack, horse-eye / Caranx latus 24 kg (50 lb)

Jack, Pacific crevalle / Caranx caninus 24 kg (50 lb)

Kahawai / Arripis trutta 15 kg (30 lb)

Kawakawa / Euthynnus affinis 15 kg (30 lb)

Ladyfish / Elops spp. 15 kg (30 lb)

Leerfish (Garrick) / Lichia amia 24 kg (50 lb)

Lingcod / Ophiodon elongatus 24 kg (50 lb)

Mackerel, cero / Scomberomorus regalis 10 kg (20 lb)

Mackerel, king / Scomberomorus cavalla 37 kg (80 lb)

Mackerel, narrowbarred /Scomberomorus commerson 37 kg (80 lb)

Mackerel, Pacific sierra / Scomberomorus sierra 10 kg (20 lb)

Mackerel, Spanish / Scomberomorus maculatus 10 kg (20 lb)

Madai / Pagrus major 24 kg (50 lb)

Marlin, black / Makaira indica 60 kg (130 lb)

Marlin, blue (Atlantic) / Makaira nigricans 60 kg (130 lb)

Marlin, blue (Pacific) / Makaira nigricans 60 kg (130 lb)

Marlin, striped / Tetrapturus audax 60 kg (130 lb)

Marlin, white / Tetrapturus albidus 60 kg (130 lb)

Meagre / Argyrosomus regius 60 kg (130 lb)

Parrotperch, Japanese / Oplegnathus fasciatus 37 kg (80 lb)

Parrotperch, spotted / Oplegnathus punctatus 60 kg (130 lb)

Permit / Trachinotus falcatus 24 kg (50 lb)

Pollack, European / Pollachius pollachius 24 kg (50 lb)

Pollock / Pollachius virens 24 kg (50 lb)

Pompano, African / Alectis ciliaris 24 kg (50 lb)

Queenfish, doublespotted / Scomberoides lysan 15 kg (30 lb)

Queenfish, talang / Scomberoides commersonnianus 24 kg (50 lb)

Rockfish, black/blue / Sebastes melanops/mystinus 15 kg (30 lb)

Rockfish, yelloweye / Sebastes ruberrimus 24 kg (50 lb)

Roosterfish / Nematistius pectoralis 60 kg (130 lb)

Runner, rainbow / Elagatis bipinnulata 24 kg (50 lb)

Sailfish, Atlantic / Istiophorus platypterus 37 kg (80 lb)

Sailfish, Pacific / Istiophorus platypterus 60 kg (130 lb)

Seabass, blackfin / Lateolabrax latus 15 kg (30 lb)

Seabass, Japanese / Lateolabrax japonicus 15 kg (30 lb)

Seabass, white / Atractoscion nobilis 37 kg (80 lb)

Seatrout, spotted / Cynoscion nebulosus 15 kg (30 lb)

Shark, blue / Prionace glauca 60 kg (130 lb)

Shark, hammerhead / Sphyrna spp. 60 kg (130 lb)

Shark, mako / Isurus spp. 60 kg (130 lb)

Shark, porbeagle / Lamna nasus 60 kg (130 lb)

Shark, thresher / Alopias spp. 60 kg (130 lb)

Shark, tiger / Galeocerdo cuvier 60 kg (130 lb)

Shark, tope / Galeorhinus galeus 37 kg (80 lb)

Shark, white / Carcharodon carcharias 60 kg (130 lb)

Sharks, whaler / Carcharinidae family. 60 kg (130 lb)

Skipjack, black / Euthynnus lineatus 15 kg (30 lb)

Snapper (squirefish) / Pagrus auratus 24 kg (50 lb)

Snapper, cubera / Lutjanus cyanopterus 60 kg (130 lb)

Snapper, mullet / Lutjanus aratus 24 kg (50 lb)

Snapper, mutton / Lutjanus analis 15 kg (30 lb)

Snapper, Pacific cubera / Lutjanus novemfasciatus 60 kg (130 lb)

Snapper, red / Lutjanus campechanus 24 kg (50 lb)

Snapper, yellowtail / Ocyurus crysurus 10 kg (20 lb)

Snook, Atlantic / Centropomus spp. 24 kg (50 lb)

Snook, Pacific / Centropomus spp. 24 kg (50 lb)

Spadefish, Atlantic / Chaetodipterus faber 10 kg (20 lb)

Spearfish, Atlantic / Tetrapturus belone

& Tetrapturus pfluegeri 37 kg (80 lb)

Spearfish, shortbill / Tetrapturus angustirostris 37 kg (80 lb)

Swordfish / Xiphias gladius 60 kg (130 lb)

Tarpon / Megalops atlanticus 60 kg (130 lb)

Tautog / Tautoga onitis 15 kg (30 lb)

Threadfin, king / Polydactylus macrochir 15 kg (30 lb)

Trevally, bigeye / Caranx sexfasciatus 37 kg (80 lb)

Trevally, bluefin / Caranx melampygus 15 kg (30 lb)

Trevally, giant / Caranx ignobilis 60 kg (130 lb)

Tripletail / Lobotes surinamensis 24 kg (50 lb)

Tuna, bigeye (Atlantic) / Thunnus obesus 60 kg (130 lb)

Tuna, bigeye (Pacific) / Thunnus obesus 60 kg (130 lb)

Tuna, blackfin / Thunnus atlanticus 24 kg (50 lb)

Tuna, bluefin / Thunnus thynnus 60 kg (130 lb)

Tuna, dogtooth / Gymnosarda unicolor 60 kg (130 lb)

Tuna, longtail / Thunnus tonggol 37 kg (80 lb)

Tuna, skipjack / Katsuwonus pelamis 24 kg (50 lb)

Tuna, southern bluefin / Thunnus maccoyi 60 kg (130 lb)

Tuna, yellowfin / Thunnus albacares 60 kg (130 lb)

Tunny, little / Euthynnus alletteratus 15 kg (30 lb)

Wahoo / Acanthocybium solandri 60 kg (130 lb)

Weakfish / Cynoscion regalis 15 kg (30 lb)

Yellowtail, California / Seriola lalandi dorsalis 37 kg (80 lb)

Yellowtail, southern / Seriola lalandi lalandi 60 kg (130 lb)

LINE TESTING

IGFA tests all line and tippet samples submitted with world record claims in accordance with the metric line class designations, which vary slightly from the standard U.S. customary designations. For example, the U.S. customary equivalent of 4 kilograms is 8.81 pounds. Thus, line designated by the manufacturer as 8 lb class line may test up to 8.81 pounds (4 kg) to qualify for an 8 lb line class record. The U.S. customary equivalents in pounds for the metric line classes are as follows:

Metric U.S. Equivalent

1 kg 2.20 lb

2 kg 4.40 lb

3 kg 6.61 lb

4 kg 8.81 lb

6 kg 13.22 lb

8 kg 17.63 lb

10 kg 22.04 lb

15 kg 33.06 lb

24 kg 52.91 lb

37 kg 81.57 lb

60 kg 132.27 lb

Line and tippet samples submitted with record claims are uniformly tested in accordance with Government specifications, which have been modified and supplemented by IGFA.

Note: IGFA offers a line and tippet testing service for members only.

Record Catch Regulations

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. Protested applications or disputed existing records will be referred to the IGFA Executive Committee for review. Its decisions will be final. IGFA reserves the right to refuse to consider an application or grant a claim for a record application. All IGFA decisions will be based upon the intent of the regulations.

2. When a substantial award is specifically offered for a world record catch in any line or tippet class, only a claim for an all-tackle record will be considered.

3. In some instances, an IGFA officer or member of the International Committee or a deputy from a local IGFA member club may be asked to recheck information supplied on a claim. Such action is not to be regarded as doubt of the formal affidavit, but rather as evidence of the extreme care with which IGFA investigates and maintains its records.

SPECIES IDENTIFICATION

1. Photographs must be submitted by which positive identification of the exact species can be made. Read the rules on photographs at the end of this section, and refer to the Species Identification section in the World Record Game Fishes book to determine which features must show to identify your fish. Applications without photographs will not be accepted.

2. If there is the slightest doubt that the fish cannot be properly identified from the photographs and other data submitted, the fish should be examined by an ichthyologist or qualified fishery biologist before a record application is submitted to IGFA. The scientist's signature and title (or qualifications) should appear on the IGFA application form or on a separate document confirming the identification of the species.

3. If a scientist is not available, the fish should be retained in a preserved or frozen condition until a qualified authority can verify the species or until notified by IGFA that the fish need no longer be retained.

4. If no decision can be made from the photographs and the angler can provide no further proof of the identification of the species, the record claim will not be considered.

WITNESSES TO CATCH

On all record claims, witnesses to the catch are highly desirable if at all possible. Unwitnessed catches may be disallowed if questions arise regarding their authenticity. It is important that the witnesses can attest to the angler's compliance with the IGFA International Angling Rules and Equipment Regulations.

MINIMUM WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS: VACANT RECORDS

The minimum acceptance weight for any record catch claim is 1 pound (.453 kg).

WEIGHTS NEEDED TO DEFEAT OR TIE EXISTINGRECORDS

1. To replace a record for a fish weighing less than 25 pounds (11.33 kg), the replacement must weigh at least 2 ounces (56.69 gm)

more than the existing record.

2. To replace a record fish weighing 25 pounds (11.33 kg) or more, the replacement must weigh at least one half of 1 percent more  than the existing record. Ex: At 100 pounds (45.35 kg) the additional weight required would be 8 ounces (226.7 gm); at 200 pounds (90.71 kg) the additional weight required would be 1 pound (.453 kg).

3. A catch which matches the weight of an existing record or exceeds the weight by less than the amount required to defeat the record will be considered a tie. In case of a tie claim involving more than two catches, weight must be compared with the original record (first fish to be caught). Nothing weighing less than the original record will be considered.

4. Estimated weights will not be accepted. (See Weighing Requirements.) Fractions of ounces or their metric equivalents will not be considered.

TIME LIMIT ON CLAIMS

With the exception of all-tackle records only, claims for record fish caught in U.S. continental waters must be received by IGFA within 60 days of the date of catch. Claims for record fish caught in other waters must be received by IGFA within three months of the date of catch. Claims for all-tackle records only are considered for catches made in past years if

(1) acceptable photographs are submitted,

(2) the weight of the fish can be positively verified, and

(3) the method of catch can be substantiated. For catches made in the past, as much information as possible must be submitted on an IGFA world record application form with any additional substantiating data. If an incomplete record claim is submitted, it must be accompanied by an explanation of why certain portions are incomplete. An incomplete claim will be considered for a record if the following conditions are met:

1. The incomplete claim with explanations of why portions are incomplete must be received by IGFA within the time limits specified

above.

2. Missing data must be due to circumstances beyond the control of the angler making the record claim.

3. All missing data must be supplied within a period of time considered to be reasonable in view of the particular circumstances. IGFA’s Executive Committee will make final decisions on incomplete claims.

WEIGHING REQUIREMENTS

1. The fish must be weighed by an official weighmaster (if one is available) or by an IGFA official or by a recognized local person familiar with the scale. Disinterested witnesses to the weight should be used whenever possible.

2. The weight of the sling, platform, or rope (if one is used to secure the fish on the scales) must be determined and deducted from the total weight.

3. At the time of weighing, the actual tackle used by the angler to catch the fish must be exhibited to the weighmaster and weight witness.

4. No estimated weights will be accepted. Fish weighed only at sea or on other bodies of water will not be accepted.

5. Only weights indicated by the graduations on the scale will be accepted. Visual fractionalizing of these graduations is not allowed. Any weights that fall between two graduations on the scale must be rounded to the lower of the two.

6. All record fish should be weighed on scales that have been checked and certified for accuracy by government agencies or other qualified and accredited organizations. All scales must be regularly checked for accuracy and certified in accordance with applicable government regulations at least once every twelve months. If at the time of weighing the fish the scale has not been properly certified within twelve months, it should be checked and certified for accuracy as quickly as possible. An official report stating the findings of the inspection prior to any adjustment of the scale must be included with the record application.

SCALE CERTIFICATION

1. If there is no official government inspector or accredited commercial scales representative available in the area where the fish is weighed, the scales must be checked by weighing objects of recognized and proven weight. Objects weighed must be at least equal to the weight of the fish. Substantiation of the correct weight of these objects must be submitted to IGFA along with the names and complete addresses of accredited witnesses to the entire procedure.

2. In extremely remote areas where no weighing scales are available, it will be permissible for the angler to use his own scales providing that they are of a quality type and have been properly certified both before and after returning from the fishing trip.

3. IGFA reserves the right to require any scale to be re-certified for accuracy if there are any indications that the scale might not have

weighed correctly.

Note: IGFA offers a scale testing service for members only.

Preparation of Claims

To apply for a world record, the angler must submit a completed IGFA application form, the mandatory length of line and terminal tackle (described below) used to catch the fish, and acceptable photographs of the fish, the tackle used to catch the fish, the scale used to weigh the fish, and the angler with the fish.

APPLICATION FORM

The official IGFA world record application form or a reproduction must be used for record claims. This form may be reproduced as long as all items are included. The angler must fill in the application personally. IGFA also recommends that the angler personally mail the application, line sample or fly leader and photographs. When making any record claim, the angler must indicate the specified strength of the line or tippet used to catch the fish. In the cases of line class and tippet class records, this will place the claim in an IGFA line or tippet class category (see World Record Categories). All lines will be examined by IGFA to verify the specified strength of the line. If the line or tippet over tests its particular category, the application will be considered in the next highest category; if it under tests into a lower line or tippet class category, the application will not be considered for the lower line class. The heaviest line class permitted for both freshwater and saltwater records is 60 kg (130 lb) class. The heaviest tippet class permitted for fly fishing records is 10 kg (20 lb). If the line or tippet over tests these maximum strengths, the claim will be disallowed. Extreme care should be exercised in measuring the fish, as the measurements are often important for weight verification and scientific studies. See the measurement diagram on the record application to be sure you have measured correctly.  The angler is responsible for seeing that the necessary signatures and correct addresses of the boat captain, weighmaster and witnesses are on the application. If an IGFA officer or representative, or an officer or member of an IGFA club is available, he or she should be asked to witness the claim. The name of a boatman, guide, or weighmaster repeated as witness is not acceptable. The angler must appear in person to have his application notarized. In territories where notarization is not possible or customary, the signature of a government commissioner or resident, a member of an embassy, legation or consular staff or an IGFA officer or International Committee member may replace notarization. Any deliberate falsification of an application will disqualify the applicant for any future IGFA world record and any existing records will be nullified.

LINE OR TIPPET SAMPLE

All applications for fly fishing records must be accompanied by the lure, the entire tippet, and the entire leader along with one inch of the fly line beyond the attachment to the leader. These components must be intact and connected. All applications for freshwater and saltwater line class records must be accompanied by the entire leader, the double line and at least 50 feet (15.24 meters) of the single line closest to the double line, leader or hook. All line samples and the leader (if one is used) must be submitted in one piece. If a lure is used with the leader, the leader should be cut at the eye attachment to the lure. Each line sample must be in one piece. It must be submitted in a manner that it can be easily unwound without damage to the line. A recommended method is to take a rectangular piece of stiff cardboard and cut notches in two opposite ends. Secure one end of the line to the cardboard and wind the line around the cardboard through the notched areas. Secure the other end, and write your name and the specified strength of the line on the cardboard. Any line sample submitted that is tangled or cannot be easily unwound will not be accepted.

PHOTOGRAPHS

Photographs showing the full length of the fish, the rod and reel used to make the catch, and the scale used to weigh the fish must accompany each record application. A photograph of the angler with the fish is also required. For species identification, the clearest possible photos should be submitted. This is especially important in the cases of hybrids and fishes that may be confused with similar species. Shark applications should include a photograph of the shark's teeth, and of the head and back taken from above in addition to the photographs taken from the side. Whether the shark has or does not have a ridge between the dorsal fins should be clearly evident in this photograph. In all cases, photographs should be taken of the fish in a hanging position and also lying on a flat surface on its side. The fish should be broadside to the camera and no part of the fish should be obscured. The fins must be fully extended and not obscured with the hands, and the jaw or bill clearly shown. Avoid obscuring the keels of sharks and tunas with a tail rope. When photographing a fish lying on its side, the surface beneath the fish should be smooth and a ruler or marked tape place beside the fish if possible. Photographs from various angles are most helpful. An additional photograph of the fish on the scale with actual weight visible helps to expedite the application. Photos taken by daylight with a reproducible-type negative film are highly recommended if at all possible.                       

Note: IGFA's bimonthly newsletter International Angler keeps anglers up to date on world record catches. It is important that we have clear, publishable photographs of the fish and the angler. If you have action shots of the catch, we would like to see them also.

Conversion Formulas for Weights & Measures

Persons submitting world record claims are required to provide the weights and measurements of the fish in the units in which they were taken. The following formulas are provided for your information.

WEIGHTS

Ounces x 28.349 = Grams

Ounces x 0.02835 = Kilograms

Pounds x 453.59 = Grams

Pounds x 0.45359 = Kilograms

Grams x 0.0353 = Ounces

Grams x 0.002 = Pounds

Kilograms x 35.2736 = Ounces

Kilograms x 2.2046 = Pound

MEASURES

Inches x 25.4 = Millimeters

Inches x 2.54 = Centimeters

Feet x 30.48 = Centimeters

Feet x 0.3048 = Meters

Millimeters x 0.03937 = Inches

Centimeters x 0.3937 = Inches

Centimeters x 0.0328 = Feet

Meters x 39.37 = Inches

MISCELLANEOUS

1 pound force x 4.448 = Newtons

1 kilogram force x 9.806 = Newtons

1 fathom x 6 = Feet

Link: IGFA Website - http://www.igfa.org/