Can anybody point me in the direction of some catch and release tournament rules? Looking for a starting point... Billfish, Wahoo, Dorado, Barracuda, Kingfish, tuna, etc.
They vary from event to event. Some are honor system. Some involve observers... Then we get more modern events that require time date stamp digital photos. They scan, watermark and verify dates for a blank chip. Others add other dimentions such as color coded cards to either follow or be used in the verification shot...
In the photo ones they often require the pic be of enough quality to determine species. Release distance varries. In most cases sailfish tournies require fifteen feet max on leader. Marlin events often go to 30 feet though. Some extreme events though I think require leader cut within 3 feet of fish. Yet others don't count if you don't tag them.
Some permit passing of rod from mate to angler while others are strictly angler handles it from bite til boated.
I know it sounds confusing but each event is different...
Thanks. So can wire leaders be used in most tournaments?
IGFA says:
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, and is measured to the bend of the last
hook. 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.
You can use wire if you wish. In billfishing though the choice is almost always monfilament... Baits have a more normal action and its less visible. In some cases guys go to fluorocarbon to reduce visibility... In billfish tournaments circle hooks must be used when using natural or combination lure over natural baits...
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