Just a reminder, I will be hosting the IGFA folks in Beaufort on Sept 15th. They will be conducting the Certified Observer Class at the VFW by the airport.

If this is something that you are interested in or would like to learn more about attending, you can check out their website http://www.igfa.org/co.asp or send me a note at jimcurrin@triad.rr.com.

From the site:
The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has instituted a program that will benefit offshore fishing tournaments. IGFA will train experienced anglers, captains and crews to become official IGFA certified observers aboard tournament boats. According to Mike Leech, IGFA Ambassador at Large, this program will benefit tournaments by eliminating or reducing rule disputes that sometimes arise. Certified observers can often prevent inadvertent rule infractions before they occur. Some big money tournaments have suffered from a lack of trained observers, or a source from which to draw experienced offshore fishermen to act as observers.

The full day training course includes a manual along with Species ID video/CD and presentations by several experienced instructors. Potential IGFA observers are required to take a test at the conclusion of the course.