This year was truly a great year for the billfishing community and for TBF’s Tag & Release Program with more reports of tagged and released fish than in several years. Below are some of the top conservation-minded anglers, captains, and crews from around the world at the apex of this amazing sport. Congratulations to all the winners and we hope to see everyone at our awards ceremony, presented by Bisbee’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Fund, on Thursday, February 11, 2016 in the Treetop Ballroom at Jungle Island during the 2016 Miami International Boat Show. The evening will kick off at 6:00 PM with cocktails followed by the award presentation and dinner. Proceeds benefit TBF’s tag and release program. Get your tickets for the 2015 Tag & Release Award Ceremony here.

Every year, The Billfish Foundation (TBF) recognizes the captains, mates and anglers (including youth and ladies) who tag and release the most billfish in each of the world’s oceans. The competition is categorized by billfish species, ocean, and whether the fish were tagged or released untagged. Award winners are recognized at TBF’s Annual Tag & Release Awards Ceremony and held during the Miami International Boat Show presented by the TBF’s 2015 Tag and Release Sponsors: Bisbee’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Fund (our ceremony sponsor), Casa Vieja Lodge, Costa Sunglasses, PELAGIC, King Sailfish Mounts, Yeti Coolers, and Garmin.

Please note that for all anglers, captains and mates to receive their awards they must be current TBF members. You can join or renew your memberships online.

Overall Release Awards

Top Overall Release Angler – Pat McCotter – Vandemere, NC USA

Top Overall Release Lady Angler – Tiffany Day – Kitty Hawk, NC USA

Top Overall Release Youth Angler – Brown Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA

Top Overall Release Captain – Brad Philipps – Guatemala City, Guatemala

 

Top Release Anglers – Atlantic Ocean 

Blue Marlin – Gray Ingram – Jupiter, FL USA

Sailfish – Brown Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA

White Marlin – Laurent Sahyoun – Mandelieu, France

 

Top Release Anglers – Indian Ocean

Black Marlin – Toby Mason – Dampier, Australia

Sailfish – Riley Smith – Exmouth, Australia

 

Top Release Anglers – Pacific Ocean

Black Marlin – Sharon Poulter – Smithfield, Australia

Blue Marlin – Pat McCotter – Vandemere, NC USA

Sailfish – Gray Ingram – Jupiter, FL USA

Striped Marlin – Jack Duvall – Kemah, TX USA

Swordfish – John Gregory – Kerikeri, New Zealand

 

Top Release Captains – Atlantic Ocean

Blue Marlin – Ronnie Fields – Lake Park, FL USA

Sailfish – Dean Panos – Pembroke Pines, FL USA

White Marlin – Christian Benazeth – Auch, France

 

Top Release Captains – Indian

Black Marlin – Eddy Lawler – Exmouth, Australia

Sailfish – Eddy Lawler – Exmouth, Australia

 

Top Release Captains – Pacific Ocean

Black Marlin – Paul Poulter – Smithfield, Australia

Blue Marlin – Pete Rae – Atlantic Beach, NC USA

Sailfish – Brad Philipps – Guatemala City, Guatemala

Striped Marlin – Eddy Cesena – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Swordfish – John Gregory – Keri Keri, New Zealand

 

Overall Tagging Winners 

Top Overall Tagging Angler – Laurent Sahyoun – Mandelieu, France

Top Overall Lady Tagging Angler – Laura Jessen – Sarasota, FL USA

Top Overall Youth Tagging Angler – Kaleb Richardson – Lafayette, LA USA

Top Overall Tagging Captain – Chris Sheeder – Palmetto Bay, FL USA

 

Top Tagging Anglers – Atlantic Ocean

Blue Marlin – Gray Ingram – Jupiter, FL USA

Sailfish – Charles Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA

Swordfish  – Richard Gudoian – Key Largo, FL USA

White Marlin – Laurent Sahyoun – Mandelieu, France

 

Top Tagging Anglers – Indian Ocean

Black Marlin * – Scott MacGowan – Baynton, Australia

Black Marlin * – Jo-Ann Riley – Baynton, Australia

Blue Marlin * – Marcus Longhurst – Broome, Australia

Blue Marlin * – Jo-Ann Riley – Baynton, Australia

Sailfish – Henry Riggs-Miller – Victoria, Seychelles

*  Denotes a tie.

 

Top Tagging Anglers – Pacific Ocean

Blue Marlin – Jada Holt – Kailua-Kona, HI USA

Sailfish – Chris Jessen – Sarasota, FL USA

Striped Marlin – Jack Duvall – Kemah, TX USA

 

Top Tagging Captains – Atlantic Ocean

Blue Marlin – Ronnie Fields – Lake Park, FL USA

Sailfish – Fin Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA

Swordfish – Sean O’Connor – Key Largo, FL USA

White Marlin – Christian Benazeth – Auch, France

 

Top Tagging Captains – Indian Ocean

Black Marlin – Eddy Lawler – Exmouth, Australia

Blue Marlin – Eddy Lawler – Exmouth, Australia

Sailfish – Jourdain Ellens – Broome, Australia

Striped Marlin – Eddy Lawler – Exmouth, Australia

 

Top Tagging Captains – Pacific Ocean

Black Marlin – Tim Richardson – Bangalow, Australia

Blue Marlin – Pete Wishney – San Clemente, CA USA

Sailfish – Chris Sheeder – Palmetto Bay, FL, USA

Spearfish – Gene Vander Hoek – Kailua-Kona, HI USA

Striped Marlin – Jaime Gonzales – Cabo San Lucas, MX

 

Gulf of Mexico Marlin Tagging Competition

Top Overall Tagging Angler – Kaleb Richardson – Louisiana

Top Tagging Angler – Blue Marlin – Kaleb Richardson – Louisiana

Top Tagging Angler – White Marlin – Charles Cooke – Florida

Top Youth Angler – Age 13-15 – Kaleb Richardson – Louisiana

Top Lady Angler – Lisa Foster – Florida

Top Tagging Captain – White Marlin – Adam Ladnier – Mississippi

Top Tagging Captain – Blue Marlin – Capt. Max Morris – Louisiana

Top Tagging Captain – Capt. Myles Colley – Florida

Top Tagging Boat– Born2Run – Florida

Top Tagging Charter Captain – Blue Marlin – Capt. Woody Woods – Louisiana

Top Tagging Charter Captain – Capt. Woody Woods – Louisiana

Top Tagging Charter Boat – Clairabelle – Louisiana

 

South Florida Sailfish Circuit

Top Tagging Angler – Shawn MacMullin

Top Tagging Youth Angler  Ages 13-15 – Shawn MacMullin

Top Tagging Lady Angler – Dawn Samuels

Top Tagging Captain – Michael MacMullin

Top Tagging Pro Captain – Bouncer Smith

Top Release Angler –  Shawn MacMullin

Top Release Pro Angler – Eric Hull

Top Release Youth Angler AGES 13-15 – Shawn MacMullin

Top Release Pro Lady Angler – Cece Imbrie

Top Release Captain – Michael MacMullin

Top Release Pro Captain – Dean Panos

 

 

Youth Winners

Top Tagging

Ages 8 & Under – Charles Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA

Runner-Up –  Sebastian Ortiz-Stoessel – Miami, FL USA

Ages 11-12  – Aidan Burke – Los Angeles, CA USA

Runner-Up – Hefner Appling – Port Aransas, TX USA

Ages 13-15 – Kaleb Richardson – Lafayette, LA USA

 Runner-Up – Shawn MacMullin – Key Largo, FL USA

Ages 16-17 – Nick Brackmann – Huntington Beach, CA USA

 

Top Release

Ages 8 & Under – Brown Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA

Runner-Up – Charles Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA

Ages 9-10 – Diego Adkins – El Paso, TX USA

Runner-Up – Moira Brummell – Granger, IN USA

Ages 11-12 – Cameron Johnson – Davie, FL USA

Ages 13-15 – Jonathan Gaskill – Vandemere, NC USA

Runner-Up – Riley Smith – Exmouth, Australia

Ages 16-17 – Samuel Yohanan – Lighthouse Point, FL USA

The post 2015 Tag & Release Winners appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

When the US was in the midst of a recession (2007 – 2009), TBF saw a significant reduction in tag and release reports, and it comes as no surprise; the price of fuel was at an all-time high during 2008 as well as many people redirecting their expenditures towards other hobbies. In the years following the start of the recession, TBF saw large fluctuations in the amount of data coming in, but overall, the numbers remained fairly low. Participation from the captains, anglers, and mates who have long supported our mission via the Tag & Release Program began to make a comeback in 2012, and really began to boom in 2014. We are so excited to see cards pouring in from around the world, and also to see so many fishing crews are utilizing the self-entry Tag & Release Online database (www.tagbillfish.org). If you haven’t already done so, please create a profile and test it out for yourself, but don’t get too comfortable because we are in the process of making the data entry even more streamlined. While you’re there generating your personal logbook, you can explore areas where fish have been caught around the world or look up marine weather wherever you plan to take your next trip.

Take a look, the numbers speak for themselves, participation is on the rise. Thanks to all of your efforts, we’re able to translate the valuable data we receive and utilize it to push for sound billfish conservation policy and advocate for angler rights and access. We know you’re going out fishing anyway, and you’re certainly not required to take the time out when things get crazy in the cockpit to tag a fish or write down the information necessary to report your releases. But the fact so many of you do take the time only goes to reinforce what we already know: our collective success can be attributed to this widely dispersed group of anglers, captains and crews, and the fervor and commitment with which specifically the billfish sportfishing community display to ensure a future for the species. We applaud you, and thank you for your continued support of TBF, because of which the 2014 Conservation Report will show numbers higher than the years before, and we hope this is a trend we will continue to enjoy for many years to come.

The post Participation On The Rise appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

When the US was in the midst of a recession (2007 – 2009), TBF saw a significant reduction in tag and release reports, and it comes as no surprise; the price of fuel was at an all-time high during 2008 as well as many people redirecting their expenditures towards other hobbies. In the years following the start of the recession, TBF saw large fluctuations in the amount of data coming in, but overall, the numbers remained fairly low. Participation from the captains, anglers, and mates who have long supported our mission via the Tag & Release Program began to make a comeback in 2012, and really began to boom in 2014. We are so excited to see cards pouring in from around the world, and also to see so many fishing crews are utilizing the self-entry Tag & Release Online database (www.tagbillfish.org). If you haven’t already done so, please create a profile and test it out for yourself, but don’t get too comfortable because we are in the process of making the data entry even more streamlined. While you’re there generating your personal logbook, you can explore areas where fish have been caught around the world or look up marine weather wherever you plan to take your next trip.

Take a look, the numbers speak for themselves, participation is on the rise. Thanks to all of your efforts, we’re able to translate the valuable data we receive and utilize it to push for sound billfish conservation policy and advocate for angler rights and access. We know you’re going out fishing anyway, and you’re certainly not required to take the time out when things get crazy in the cockpit to tag a fish or write down the information necessary to report your releases. But the fact so many of you do take the time only goes to reinforce what we already know: our collective success can be attributed to this widely dispersed group of anglers, captains and crews, and the fervor and commitment with which specifically the billfish sportfishing community display to ensure a future for the species. We applaud you, and thank you for your continued support of TBF, because of which the 2014 Conservation Report will show numbers higher than the years before, and we hope this is a trend we will continue to enjoy for many years to come.

The post Participation on the Rise appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

In recent years, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has taken great steps to recognize the importance of recreational fishing across the nation and their research continues to reveal the substantial benefits that come from healthy recreational fisheries. Surveys conducted by NMFS in 2011 of private HMS angling permit holders revealed that anglers targeting HMS in particular make significant economic contributions because of the high costs of tackle, fuel, and boats required for offshore fishing. It was estimated that private HMS angling permit holders had an economic impact of USD $266 million. However, these estimates were only for private vessels in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic (Maine to North Carolina) region and previous studies on the for-hire sector have never looked specifically at for-hire HMS vessels. In 2013, NMFS followed up this study with further research to estimate the significant impacts of the for-hire sector for the entire East Coast and Gulf of Mexico.

From July to November of 2013 NMFS randomly selected Atlantic HMS Charter/Headboat (CHB) owners from Maine to Texas to collect important data on expenses and earnings for HMS trips. The results showed that the average charter boat fares (6 anglers or fewer) were $2,450, $2,111, and $1,223 for the Northeast (ME-VA), Gulf of Mexico (FL-TX) and Southeast (NC-FL) regions respectively. In the Northeast close to 5,000 for-hire HMS trips were made and are estimated to have generated more than $12 million in direct expenditure, employed 460 people, and a total economic output of nearly $32 million. In the Southeast, roughly 3,000 HMS for-hire trips were taken that generated $3.67 million in direct expenditure, create 243 jobs and a total impact of $10.5 million. Within the Gulf of Mexico, 1,505 HMS for-hire trips were made that generated $3.17 million in direct expenditure, created 428 jobs and $8.8 million in total economic impacts.

In addition to asking about trip expenses on ice, bait, and fuel, the survey also asked CHB permit holders about fishing patterns, including species targeted, vessel characteristics, gear used, type of bait, and hook type used. Responses showed that 68% of for-hire trips target multiple species while 32% targeted only coast sharks. The survey also revealed important differences between charter boats and headboats (vessels chartered by 7 anglers or more). The most common species targeted by charter boats were yellowfin tuna, sailfish, marlin, and coastal sharks compared to headboats that more often targeted bigeye tuna, swordfish and coastal sharks in addition to yellowfin tuna.

In total, $19 million in direct expenditure of HMS for-hire trips generated approximately $51 million in economic output for coasts from Maine to Texas. These findings will greatly help represent the importance of HMS recreational fishing when evaluating future management actions and it should be noted that it was only possible by the participation of captains and anglers. This upcoming summer, NMFS will continue to gauge the impacts of recreational HMS fishing through surveying HMS tournament directors and participants. TBF strongly urges any boat owners, captains and tournament directors to take part and stress how vital studies like these are to ensuring the future of recreational HMS fishing. For further information or questions, please contact TBF Science & Policy Specialist, Michael Kelly at [email protected].

The post Economic Impacts of For-Hire HMS Sector appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

‘Tis the season to think about special gifts for that special angler in your life. We hope you will take a look and enjoy some of the great gift ideas offered by TBF and affiliates. Bring a smile to the face of your loved ones face while supporting billfish conservation!

 

Most of these items are available for purchase at TBF’s online store and don’t forget to see all the other great items for sale there as well! For all other items not available TBF online store, click from the links below to purchase.

 

 

2016 Limited Edition TBF Fathom Offshore Lures Red Angel Wings – Click to purchase here

 

 

Dimensional, framed bathymetric charts carved in Baltic Birch Wood by The Giving Tree GALLERY – Click to purchase here

 

 

Tag & Recapture Trophies – Produced by King Sailfish Mounts – Click to purchase here

 

The post TBF Holiday Gift Guide! appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

For more than 25 years, Garmin has pioneered new GPS navigation and wireless devices and applications that are designed for people who live an active lifestyle. Garmin serves five primary business units, including automotive, aviation, fitness, marine, and outdoor recreation. Garmin’s marine product portfolio includes some of the industry’s most sophisticated chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar technology, high-definition radar, autopilots, high-resolution mapping, sailing instrumentation and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability and ease-of-use.

“Garmin is excited to partner with The Billfish Foundation as a Tag and Release sponsor. The Foundation’s conservation and advocacy efforts around the globe are invaluable, and its success is thanks in part to the dedicated anglers and captains that voluntarily tag, release, and report their billfish catches. The data collected from the Tag and Release program is vital to further understand the billfish species, and Garmin is proud to help support the efforts of the Foundation and participating anglers,” says David Dunn,Garmin Sr. Manager of Marine Sales.

TBF is looking forward to having Garmin on board and excited for the future with all these great companies on board to support TBF’s Tag and Release Program! To learn more about becoming a sponsor of TBF, please contact us via email or by phone (954) 938 0150.

The post Garmin Joins as Newest Tag & Release Program Sponsor appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

For more than 25 years, Garmin has pioneered new GPS navigation and wireless devices and applications that are designed for people who live an active lifestyle. Garmin serves five primary business units, including automotive, aviation, fitness, marine, and outdoor recreation. Garmin’s marine product portfolio includes some of the industry’s most sophisticated chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar technology, high-definition radar, autopilots, high-resolution mapping, sailing instrumentation and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability and ease-of-use.

“Garmin is excited to partner with The Billfish Foundation as a Tag and Release sponsor. The Foundation’s conservation and advocacy efforts around the globe are invaluable, and its success is thanks in part to the dedicated anglers and captains that voluntarily tag, release, and report their billfish catches. The data collected from the Tag and Release program is vital to further understand the billfish species, and Garmin is proud to help support the efforts of the Foundation and participating anglers,” says David Dunn,Garmin Sr. Manager of Marine Sales.

TBF is looking forward to having Garmin on board and excited for the future with all these great companies on board to support TBF’s Tag and Release Program! To learn more about becoming a sponsor of TBF, please contact us via email or by phone (954) 938 0150.

The post Garmin Joins as Newest Tag & Release Program Sponsor appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Take a peek at some of the items we have in store for you to bid on for our live auction at our annual fundraiser, Hemingway’s Havana Night! Be sure to bid high, as all the proceeds go to billfish conservation!

For more information on the event and to purchase your tickets or table, click here.

The post Hemingway’s Havana Night Live Auction Items appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Take a peek at some of the items we have in store for you to bid on for our live auction at our annual fundraiser, Hemingway’s Havana Night! Be sure to bid high, as all the proceeds go to billfish conservation!

For more information on the event and to purchase your tickets or table, click here.

The post Hemingway’s Havana Night Live Auction Items appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

The Obama administration recently issued new rules that allow U.S. visitors going to Cuba to travel in their own boat, whether for hire or recreation, direct to Cuba.  Some requirements remain that you must satisfy before you set off, though the situation is changing all the time.  We will try to keep you up to date.  The National Marine Manufacturers Association in the U.S. has taken the lead in exploring options for the industry and boaters.

Two visa requirements should be considered for your boat trip to Cuba:

Traveler:

You still are not legally allowed to travel to Cuba as a tourist, so you must self-certify to obtain your travel authorization by selecting one of the 12 categories listed by the Treasury Department, U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control:

1. Family visits
2. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
3. Journalistic activity
4. Professional research and professional meetings
5. Educational activities
6. Religious activities
7. Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
8. Support for the Cuban people
9. Humanitarian projects
10. Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
11. Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
12. Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines.

For more information on traveling to Cuba please visit TBF’s website, billfish.org https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/policy-guidance/country-guidance/sanctioned-destinations/cuba

https://licensing.ofac.treas.gov/Apply/Introduction.aspx

http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=9ae4a21068f2bd41d4a5aee843b63ef1&rgn=div5&view=text&node=15:2.1.3.4.25&idno=15#15:2.1.3.4.25.0.1.15

Vessel:

A license for your vessel from the Department of Commerce is still required though on a case by case basis, which surely will be standardized soon.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/forms-documents/doc_view/201-temporary-sojourn-license-applications-for-aircraft-and-vessels-to-cuba

You may find it very helpful to work with a leading travel agency that is working with the Marine Manufacturers Association to establish clarity with the vessel licensing.

Cuba Travel Services

Ms. Emily Sanchez

[email protected]

1-562-366-1631

Fishing:

Remember a fishing license is a totally different issue that has to be obtained in Cuba.

TBF’s sportfishing contact in Cuba is Commodore Jose Escrich at the Hemingway Yacht Club, which hosts a billfish tournament each June.  With the dynamic changes taking place with the U.S. and Cuba allowing private U.S. vessels to travel direct to Cuba it is our understanding the Commodore has been swamped with requests, so patience will be required.  Hopefully, soon a standardized process will be established for U.S. anglers and made readily available.  Commodore Escrich, www.hemingwayyachtclub.org .

The post Private Boats Can Travel Direct to Cuba – BUT Some Restrictions Apply appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

The Obama administration recently issued new rules that allow U.S. visitors going to Cuba to travel in their own boat, whether for hire or recreation, direct to Cuba.  Some requirements remain that you must satisfy before you set off, though the situation is changing all the time.  We will try to keep you up to date.  The National Marine Manufacturers Association in the U.S. has taken the lead in exploring options for the industry and boaters.

Two visa requirements should be considered for your boat trip to Cuba:

Traveler:

You still are not legally allowed to travel to Cuba as a tourist, so you must self-certify to obtain your travel authorization by selecting one of the 12 categories listed by the Treasury Department, U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control:

1. Family visits
2. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
3. Journalistic activity
4. Professional research and professional meetings
5. Educational activities
6. Religious activities
7. Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
8. Support for the Cuban people
9. Humanitarian projects
10. Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
11. Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
12. Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines.

For more information on traveling to Cuba please visit TBF’s website, billfish.org https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/policy-guidance/country-guidance/sanctioned-destinations/cuba

https://licensing.ofac.treas.gov/Apply/Introduction.aspx

http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&SID=9ae4a21068f2bd41d4a5aee843b63ef1&rgn=div5&view=text&node=15:2.1.3.4.25&idno=15#15:2.1.3.4.25.0.1.15

Vessel:

A license for your vessel from the Department of Commerce is still required though on a case by case basis, which surely will be standardized soon.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/forms-documents/doc_view/201-temporary-sojourn-license-applications-for-aircraft-and-vessels-to-cuba

You may find it very helpful to work with a leading travel agency that is working with the Marine Manufacturers Association to establish clarity with the vessel licensing.

Cuba Travel Services

Ms. Emily Sanchez

[email protected]

1-562-366-1631

Fishing:

Remember a fishing license is a totally different issue that has to be obtained in Cuba.

TBF’s sportfishing contact in Cuba is Commodore Jose Escrich at the Hemingway Yacht Club, which hosts a billfish tournament each June.  With the dynamic changes taking place with the U.S. and Cuba allowing private U.S. vessels to travel direct to Cuba it is our understanding the Commodore has been swamped with requests, so patience will be required.  Hopefully, soon a standardized process will be established for U.S. anglers and made readily available.  Commodore Escrich, www.hemingwayyachtclub.org .

The post Private Boats Can Travel Direct to Cuba – BUT Some Restrictions Apply appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

It comes as good news to learn of CFOOD, a group of well respected scientists that came together “out of frustration with erroneous stories about fisheries sustainability” to “set the record straight.” Even though many sensational claims about the status of fish have been discredited, they continue to appear in the press as factual. CFOOD’s mission is to identify such reports or claims and provide a quick science-based response. How refreshing it is to know this group of scientists are organized to assess and respond at a time when extreme environmental organizations bombard the public and decision makers with reports that all is doomed and calling, in the case of marine fish, for waters to be closed to all fishing. CFOOD first took on the World Wildlife Foundation’s (WWF) recently released Living Blue Planet Report that asserts the populations of tunas, mackerels and bonitos declined by 74% between 1970 through 2010. After reviewing published scientific stock assessment results from the international tuna regional fisheries management organizations and other science-based entities, the WWF claim was refuted.

CFOOD reported that “the adult biomass of 26 populations of tunas, mackerels and Spanish mackerels had declined by 52% between 1954 and 2006.” The expert then pointed out WWF used its own database, the Living Planet Index (LPI), which allows anyone to submit data through a portal. A stark contrast was that the LPI did not include data from a single stock assessment conducted by any tuna regional fisheries management organizations. CFOOD also reported problems with how WWF used other data resources.

On its website, CFOOD has “Myths” posted, including a claim made in a 2006 that “All Fish Stocks Will Collapse by 2048”, which got coverage on the front pages of the New York Times and the Washington Post newspapers. Scientific evidence debunking the 2006 myth is also posted, which found that “on average fish stocks where abundance was available were not decline, but increases and declines were roughly equal.” We at TBF welcome the presence and actions of CFOOD to help counter sensational claims threatening to cause decision makers or members of the public to overreact.

The post Credible Scientists Take On Sensationalists appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

It comes as good news to learn of CFOOD, a group of well respected scientists that came together “out of frustration with erroneous stories about fisheries sustainability” to “set the record straight.” Even though many sensational claims about the status of fish have been discredited, they continue to appear in the press as factual. CFOOD’s mission is to identify such reports or claims and provide a quick science-based response. How refreshing it is to know this group of scientists are organized to assess and respond at a time when extreme environmental organizations bombard the public and decision makers with reports that all is doomed and calling, in the case of marine fish, for waters to be closed to all fishing. CFOOD first took on the World Wildlife Foundation’s (WWF) recently released Living Blue Planet Report that asserts the populations of tunas, mackerels and bonitos declined by 74% between 1970 through 2010. After reviewing published scientific stock assessment results from the international tuna regional fisheries management organizations and other science-based entities, the WWF claim was refuted.

CFOOD reported that “the adult biomass of 26 populations of tunas, mackerels and Spanish mackerels had declined by 52% between 1954 and 2006.” The expert then pointed out WWF used its own database, the Living Planet Index (LPI), which allows anyone to submit data through a portal. A stark contrast was that the LPI did not include data from a single stock assessment conducted by any tuna regional fisheries management organizations. CFOOD also reported problems with how WWF used other data resources.

On its website, CFOOD has “Myths” posted, including a claim made in a 2006 that “All Fish Stocks Will Collapse by 2048”, which got coverage on the front pages of the New York Times and the Washington Post newspapers. Scientific evidence debunking the 2006 myth is also posted, which found that “on average fish stocks where abundance was available were not decline, but increases and declines were roughly equal.” We at TBF welcome the presence and actions of CFOOD to help counter sensational claims threatening to cause decision makers or members of the public to overreact.

The post Credible Scientists Take On Sensationalists appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

The Billfish Foundation (TBF) is extremely excited to announce and welcome aboard YETI Coolers as a new Tag & Release Program sponsor. A leader in the outdoor recreational industry, YETI joins other top businesses in the sportfishing community as a Tag & Release sponsor including Costa Sunglasses, Pelagic Gear, King Sailfish Mounts, Casa Vieja Lodge, and Bisbee’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Fund. The passion and appreciation for the outdoors is something YETI founders, Roy and Ryan Seiders have incorporated into their company. YETI clearly understands the importance of giving back to conservation efforts and TBF is one of many conservation groups they support.

YETI Coolers revolutionized the way that outdoor enthusiast look at coolers. No expenses are spared in the design and construction of their high quality, roto-molded coolers.  The numerous features found on their coolers and durability makes YETI coolers extremely versatile with an almost endless number of uses.  The results of this are a bulletproof cooler that not only keeps ice for days, but now is considered an essential piece of equipment most anglers won’t leave the dock without.

TBF is looking forward to having YETI on board and excited for the future with all these great companies on board to support TBF’s Tag and Release Program! To learn more about becoming a sponsor of TBF, please contact us via email or by phone (954) 938 0150.

The post YETI Cooler Joins as Newest Tag & Release Sponsor appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

The Billfish Foundation (TBF) is extremely excited to announce and welcome aboard YETI Coolers as a new Tag & Release Program sponsor. A leader in the outdoor recreational industry, YETI joins other top businesses in the sportfishing community as a Tag & Release sponsor including Costa Sunglasses, Pelagic Gear, King Sailfish Mounts, Casa Vieja Lodge, and Bisbee’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Fund. The passion and appreciation for the outdoors is something YETI founders, Roy and Ryan Seiders have incorporated into their company. YETI clearly understands the importance of giving back to conservation efforts and TBF is one of many conservation groups they support.

YETI Coolers revolutionized the way that outdoor enthusiast look at coolers. No expenses are spared in the design and construction of their high quality, roto-molded coolers.  The numerous features found on their coolers and durability makes YETI coolers extremely versatile with an almost endless number of uses.  The results of this are a bulletproof cooler that not only keeps ice for days, but now is considered an essential piece of equipment most anglers won’t leave the dock without.

TBF is looking forward to having YETI on board and excited for the future with all these great companies on board to support TBF’s Tag and Release Program! To learn more about becoming a sponsor of TBF, please contact us via email or by phone (954) 938 0150.

The post YETI Cooler Joins as Newest Tag & Release Sponsor appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Regrettably, the recent La Presna article dated August 16, 2015 that quotes Ivan Flores, Manager of the Aquatic Resources and Fisheries Authority (ARAP), did not focus on the sustainable use of and positive economic returns to Panama generated from its sportfishing eco-tourism trade, which is predominantly a catch and release fishery for highly migratory fish (marlin, sailfish, tunas).  Instead, the article attempted to justify restraints on the nation’s lucrative sportfishing eco-tourism trade, based on the stated need “to minimize harm it [sportfishing] causes to the marine biology,” without defining or elaborating on what that means – fish, water quality, habitat, flora, etc.

There are several issues not accurately or fairly stated. For one, the release mortality estimates in the cited studies cannot be extrapolated to the recreational fishery as a whole but instead reflect conditions unique to specific situations. When combined with other studies, these results documented the benefits from the use of circle hooks with less than a 5 degree offset. These hooks are widely used in catch and release recreational billfish fisheries to maximize survival, and are now required by anglers fishing in Costa Rica and in the U.S. when using natural baits in tournaments.   It is perhaps noteworthy that the authors of the article did not inform the readers that one study (Jensen et al. 2010) found that temporary closures of Mexico’s EEZ to long-lining from 1977–1980 and 1984–1985 had a rapid effect on local abundance of striped marlin.  The article did not include closing some waters to pelagic longline gear as an option to improve the state of fisheries in Panama.

Panama would lose significant jobs and tax revenues through ill-advised restrictions on sportfishing. A socio-economic survey commissioned by the Secretariat of Science and Technology (SENACYT) and coordinated by The Billfish Foundation documented the positive contribution of the sportfishing eco-tourism trade to Panama. The La Presna article cited this study, reporting that tourist anglers traveling to Panama to sportfish, on average, have incomes of $75,000, as if this were a negative.  They bring $97 million new dollars to the Panamanian economy each year. ARAP would apparently prefer these dollars to be spent in nations other than Panama.  The real issue is per capita value of a recreationally caught and released fish versus the same for one killed and marketed, and the comparison overwhelmingly favors the recreational fishery.

Panama does need to establish a responsible data collection system for each of its highly migratory fisheries, including the sportfishing trade.  The resulting data should be submitted annually to the Intra-American Tuna Commission (IATTC), the international regional management organization for the Eastern Tropical Pacific, and to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) for Atlantic species.  ICCAT has cited Panama more than once for failure of some of its commercial vessels to fish consistent with the international organizations conservation requirements. The sportfishing community around the world strongly favors effective monitoring of harvest, science-based fishing regulations and effective enforcement of fisheries laws and regulations.  Well-managed – not artificially restricted – sport fisheries can generate revenues via licenses to provide for scientific management and law enforcement activities.

Lastly, the reference made in the article that a large drop from 72 tons of marlin landed by U.S. anglers in years past was down to 212 fish implied the drop was due to sportfishing-induced high mortality rates.  Not so.  The drop was a voluntary step offered by a U.S. delegation before ICCAT to limit their landings to no more than 250 marlin, white and blue combined, each year. The purpose was to demonstrate the U.S. commitment to billfish conservation, responsible angling and hopefully, to inspire other nations to take some measures to reduce their marlin mortality.   This international measure is in addition to the U.S prohibition of the landing, sale, trade or barter of any Atlantic marlin, spearfish or sailfish caught by U.S. commercial fishing vessels.  The U.S. government recognized years ago that these billfish species are far more valuable to a nation for sportfishing than as dead fish killed for sale.

Hopefully, Panama will take pride in its sportfishing eco-tourism trade and all related businesses and provide responsible government support.  Fishery management no longer is solely about tons of dead fish.  Both commercial and sportfishing fisheries need responsible management for the good of a nation and its dependent businesses.  Sometimes, the management objectives will favor the commercial fishing trade while other resources will be better allocated to the sportfishing eco-tourism trade.  Both industries should be managed fairly and responsibly. To that end, it is critical that equitable representation from the sportfishing eco-tourism trade, the commercial fishing industry and the scientific community be included on each of the Working Groups established by ARAP’s Board of Directors for the purpose of updating the nation’s fishery law. Sportfishing anglers are not preservationists but are responsible users of the fish resources, desiring healthy and sustainable fish populations, and need to be involved in the management process.

Members of the sportfishing eco-tourism trade in Panama should immediately and collectively make their position clear to numerous governmental departments at the highest possible level; otherwise, ill-conceived and counter-productive restraints may soon follow through the amendment of the Fisheries Act.

The post Panama’s Sportfishing Eco-Tourism Trade Could Be Hurt appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Regrettably, the recent La Presna article dated August 16, 2015 that quotes Ivan Flores, Manager of the Aquatic Resources and Fisheries Authority (ARAP), did not focus on the sustainable use of and positive economic returns to Panama generated from its sportfishing eco-tourism trade, which is predominantly a catch and release fishery for highly migratory fish (marlin, sailfish, tunas).  Instead, the article attempted to justify restraints on the nation’s lucrative sportfishing eco-tourism trade, based on the stated need “to minimize harm it [sportfishing] causes to the marine biology,” without defining or elaborating on what that means – fish, water quality, habitat, flora, etc.

There are several issues not accurately or fairly stated. For one, the release mortality estimates in the cited studies cannot be extrapolated to the recreational fishery as a whole but instead reflect conditions unique to specific situations. When combined with other studies, these results documented the benefits from the use of circle hooks with less than a 5 degree offset. These hooks are widely used in catch and release recreational billfish fisheries to maximize survival, and are now required by anglers fishing in Costa Rica and in the U.S. when using natural baits in tournaments.   It is perhaps noteworthy that the authors of the article did not inform the readers that one study (Jensen et al. 2010) found that temporary closures of Mexico’s EEZ to long-lining from 1977–1980 and 1984–1985 had a rapid effect on local abundance of striped marlin.  The article did not include closing some waters to pelagic longline gear as an option to improve the state of fisheries in Panama.

Panama would lose significant jobs and tax revenues through ill-advised restrictions on sportfishing. A socio-economic survey commissioned by the Secretariat of Science and Technology (SENACYT) and coordinated by The Billfish Foundation documented the positive contribution of the sportfishing eco-tourism trade to Panama. The La Presna article cited this study, reporting that tourist anglers traveling to Panama to sportfish, on average, have incomes of $75,000, as if this were a negative.  They bring $97 million new dollars to the Panamanian economy each year. ARAP would apparently prefer these dollars to be spent in nations other than Panama.  The real issue is per capita value of a recreationally caught and released fish versus the same for one killed and marketed, and the comparison overwhelmingly favors the recreational fishery.

Panama does need to establish a responsible data collection system for each of its highly migratory fisheries, including the sportfishing trade.  The resulting data should be submitted annually to the Intra-American Tuna Commission (IATTC), the international regional management organization for the Eastern Tropical Pacific, and to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) for Atlantic species.  ICCAT has cited Panama more than once for failure of some of its commercial vessels to fish consistent with the international organizations conservation requirements. The sportfishing community around the world strongly favors effective monitoring of harvest, science-based fishing regulations and effective enforcement of fisheries laws and regulations.  Well-managed – not artificially restricted – sport fisheries can generate revenues via licenses to provide for scientific management and law enforcement activities.

Lastly, the reference made in the article that a large drop from 72 tons of marlin landed by U.S. anglers in years past was down to 212 fish implied the drop was due to sportfishing-induced high mortality rates.  Not so.  The drop was a voluntary step offered by a U.S. delegation before ICCAT to limit their landings to no more than 250 marlin, white and blue combined, each year. The purpose was to demonstrate the U.S. commitment to billfish conservation, responsible angling and hopefully, to inspire other nations to take some measures to reduce their marlin mortality.   This international measure is in addition to the U.S prohibition of the landing, sale, trade or barter of any Atlantic marlin, spearfish or sailfish caught by U.S. commercial fishing vessels.  The U.S. government recognized years ago that these billfish species are far more valuable to a nation for sportfishing than as dead fish killed for sale.

Hopefully, Panama will take pride in its sportfishing eco-tourism trade and all related businesses and provide responsible government support.  Fishery management no longer is solely about tons of dead fish.  Both commercial and sportfishing fisheries need responsible management for the good of a nation and its dependent businesses.  Sometimes, the management objectives will favor the commercial fishing trade while other resources will be better allocated to the sportfishing eco-tourism trade.  Both industries should be managed fairly and responsibly. To that end, it is critical that equitable representation from the sportfishing eco-tourism trade, the commercial fishing industry and the scientific community be included on each of the Working Groups established by ARAP’s Board of Directors for the purpose of updating the nation’s fishery law. Sportfishing anglers are not preservationists but are responsible users of the fish resources, desiring healthy and sustainable fish populations, and need to be involved in the management process.

Members of the sportfishing eco-tourism trade in Panama should immediately and collectively make their position clear to numerous governmental departments at the highest possible level; otherwise, ill-conceived and counter-productive restraints may soon follow through the amendment of the Fisheries Act.

The post Panama’s Sportfishing Eco-Tourism Trade Could Be Hurt appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Given their popularity with sportfish anglers worldwide, you would think much more would be known about the biology of billfish (marlin, sailfish, and spearfish), however that is not the case. For example, the number of populations of most species in a particular ocean is unknown, and there is not a clear idea of the amount of mixing between populations. This not only makes management difficult but is a major roadblock to understanding how billfish populations interact with one another and with geographically different groups of anglers. Angler and scientist efforts, such as tagging of billfish species, have revealed a great deal of information on billfish movements and growth rates, but there are additional ways in which anglers can help improve our understanding of billfish populations.

The Billfish Foundation continually looks to collaborate with research institutions to learn more about billfish. TBF is currently working with PhD candidate, Nadya Mamoozadeh, at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (Gloucester Point, Virginia, USA), whose research is based on understanding the population structure of billfish. Her focus is on two species, white marlin (Kajikia albida) in the Atlantic Ocean, and striped marlin (K. audax) in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. Nadya’s research calls for tissue samples of white marlin and striped marlin from throughout their distributional ranges, with special emphasis on samples from spawning grounds. Inferences from the genetic results compared with those from tagging data help get a comprehensive picture of population structure and can improve conservation measures and management of these species. Collectively this information is also important for understanding which billfish populations are accessed by a particular fishery in a given space and time and can help prevent unintentional overfishing of one population compared to another.

This is where TBF’s global network of hundreds of thousands of anglers, captains, and mates comes in to the picture. The sampling process is easy: cut a small piece of the fin from a hooked fish, then the fin clip is put in a tube of preservative and held until the end of the season, at which point the sample tubes are shipped back to Nadya, free of charge. Collecting a sample for genetic analysis can easily be done alongside tagging. If participating in this research project is of interest to you, let Nayda ([email protected]) or Peter Chaibongsai ([email protected]) know and we will be glad to get a sampling kit your way.

The post Billfish Genetic Sampling with VIMS appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Despite the popularity with anglers worldwide and the research investments made by The Billfish Foundation since 1986, still a lot of biological information is not known about marlin, sailfish, and spearfish, making their management and conservation challenging. Billfish tagged by anglers and scientists has revealed a lot about the fishes’ movements and growth rates, but documenting the number of populations of each billfish species that exists in each ocean is unknown. A population is “… a group of fish of the same species that are alive in a defined area at a given time” (Wooten 1990).  Nor does data exist to quantify the mixing between populations – i.e. eastern and western Atlantic bluefin tuna.

TBF welcomes opportunities to collaborate with research institutions to help further close science gaps.  Currently TBF staff members are working with (PhD candidate, Nadya Mamoozadeh, at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) (Gloucester Point, VA), the graduate school in marine science for the College of William & Mary.  Nadya’s research focuses on the population structure of white marlin (Kajikia albida) in the Atlantic Ocean and striped marlin (K.audax) in the Indo-Pacific Ocean.  Tissue samples from each of these species are being collected from throughout their distributional ranges, with special emphasis on samples taken from spawning grounds. Inferences gained from the samples’ genetic results, when compared with tagging data, will provide a more comprehensive picture of each species’ population structure. The data is also important for helping to understand which of these species populations are accessed by a particular fishery in a given space and time.  This can be helpful in preventing unintentional overfishing of one population compared to another.

TBF’s global network of anglers, captains and mates can help in collecting these needed tissue samples after receiving a sample kit from either Nadya at [email protected] or Peter Chaibongsai at [email protected].   When a hooked fish is brought alongside the boat, a small piece the fish’s fin should be clipped and placed in the sampling kits tube that contains a preservative.  Tagging the same fish would also be helpful for if recaptured additional data can be shared with the researcher. The sample kits with tissue should be held until the end of the season, when they are to be shipped to Nadya, free of charge. Shipping instructions will be included with the kits.

The post Billfish Genetic Sampling with VIMS appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Tag & Release cards are really starting to come in and TBF’s annual Tag and Release Competition is heating up with less than 3 months to go! The “Top Five” in most of the competition categories are highlighted below. This list constitutes the tag and release records processed by TBF as of August 25, 2015.

Do you know anyone on the list? Are you in the top five and want to be recognized by the who’s who in the billfishing community at our ceremony? Be sure to tag, release, and report your billfish catches before the end of the competition on October 31, 2015. Remember you can submit your records online now at www.tagbillfish.org or you can submit them through the mail. The last date that TBF can receive tag and release cards for this competition year is November 15, 2015.

Award winners will be recognized at TBF’s Annual Tag & Release Awards Ceremony held during the Miami International Boat Show presented by the TBF Tag and Release Sponsors, Bisbee’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Fund, Casa Vieja Lodge, Costa Sunglasses, Pelagic, and SIMRAD.

As of 8/25/15

Overall Release Captain

1. 1. Ronnie Fields
2. 2. Ben Horning
3. 3. Pete Rae
4. 4. Dean Panos
5. 5. Brad Philipps

 

Overall Tagging Captain

1. 1. Ben Horning
2. 2. Thomas Colquhoun
3. 3. Eddy Lawler
4. 4. Rom Whitaker
5. 5. Ronnie Fields

 

Overall Release Angler

1. 1. Gray Ingram
2. 2. Pat McCotter
3. 3. John Duvall
4. 4. Amanda Cofer
5. 5. Tiffany Day

 

Overall Tagging Angler

1. 1. Chris Jessen
2. 2. Laura Jessen
3. 3. Gray Ingram
4. 4. Darryl Schroeder
5. 5. John Duvall

 

Overall Release Lady Angler

1. 1. Amanda Cofer
2. 2. Tiffany Day
3. 3. Laura Jessen
4. 4. Cece Imbrie
5. 5. Melissa Haight

 

Overall Tagging Lady Angler

1. 1. Laura Jessen
2. 2. Jo-Ann Riley
3. 3. Lori Schroeder
4. 4. Dawn Samuels
5. 5. Martha MacNab

 

Overall Release Youth Angler

1. 1. Brown Gaddy
2. 2. Jonathan Gaskill
3. 3. Charles Gaddy
4. 4. Will Stark
5. 5. Riley Smith

 

Overall Tagging Youth Angler

1. 1. Charles Gaddy
2. 2. Shawn MacMullin
3. 3. Riley Smith
4. 4. Kaleb Richardson
5. 5. Jack Shanklin

 

 

Top Tagging Angler- Atlantic

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Gray Ingram
2. 2. Kaleb Richardson
3. 3. Bo Ingram
4. 4. Gary Pirko
5. 5. Gary Ellis

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Charles Gaddy
2. 2. Glenn Creamer
3. 3. Dawn Samuels
4. 4. Shawn MacMullin
5. 5. Nuno Abohbot

 

Swordfish

1. 1. Richard Gudoian

 

White Marlin

1. 1. Nick Rauco
2. 2. Bill Heiligbrodt
3. 3. Peter Cherasia
4. 4. Corinne Heiligbrodt
5. 5. Will Stark

 

 

Top Release Angler- Atlantic

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Gray Ingram
2. 2. Gary Pirko
3. 3. Kaleb Richardson
4. 4. Joe Capaletti
5. 5. Bo Ingram

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Brown Gaddy
2. 2. Nathan Walker
3. 3. Cody Gavalier
4. 4. Chris Wrenn
5. 5. Junior Baas

 

White Marlin

1. 1. Corinne Heiligbrodt
2. 2. Bill Heiligbrodt
3. 3. Will Stark
4. 4. Matthew Sullivan
5. 5. Layton Russell

 

 

Top Tagging Captain- Atlantic

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Ronnie Fields
2. 2. Max Morris
3. 3. Tim Richardson
4. 4. Jason Pipe
5. 5. Eddy Lawler

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Fin Gaddy
2. 2. Rom Whitaker
3. 3. Doug Covin
4. 4. Bouncer Smith
5. 5. Jon Brooks

 

White Marlin

1. 1. Rich Barrett
2. 2. Jimmy Grant
3. 3. Tim Richardson
4. 4. Eric Mansur, Sr.
5. 5. Antonio Amaral

 

 

Top Release Captain- Atlantic

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Ronnie Fields
2. 2. Dennis Endee
3. 3. Dean Panos
4. 4. Max Morris
5. 5. Eric Mansur, Sr.

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Dean Panos
2. 2. Fin Gaddy
3. 3. Rom Whitaker
4. 4. Doug Covin
5. 5. Jeff Scott

 

White Marlin

1. 1. Dennis Endee
2. 2. Jimmy Grant
3. 3. Tim Richardson
4. 4. Brian Sullivan
5. 5. Eric Mansur, Sr.

 

 

Top Tagging Angler- Pacific

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Chris Jessen
2. 2. Laura Jessen
3. 3. Rob Wilson
4. 4. John Duvall

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Chris Jessen
2. 2. Laura Jessen
3. 3. Darryl Schoeder
4. 4. Lori Schroeder
5. 5. Scott Kozak

 

Striped Marlin

1. 1. John Duvall
2. 2. Robert Hendricks
3. 3. Martha MacNab
4. 4. Nick Brackmann
5. 5. Judy Sillis

 

 

Top Release Angler- Pacific

Black Marlin

1. 1. Mark Davis

 

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Pat McCotter
2. 2. Jonathan Gaskill
3. 3. Chris Jessen
4. 4. Amanda Cofer
5. 5. Rob Wilson

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Gray Ingram
2. 2. John Duvall
3. 3. Amanda Cofer
4. 4. Tiffany Day
5. 5. Chris Jessen

 

Striped Marlin

1. 1. John Duvall
2. 2. Pat McCotter

 

 

Top Tagging Captain- Pacific

Black Marlin

1. 1. Tim Richardson

 

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Ben Horning
2. 2. Skeet Warren
3. 3. Eddy Lawler
4. 4. Sean Swetman
5. 5. Chris Van Leeuwen

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Ben Horning
2. 2. Thomas Colquhoun
3. 3. Chris Sheeder
4. 4. Cliff Mountain
5. 5. David Salazar

 

Striped Marlin

1. 1. Jaime Gonzalez
2. 2. Eddy Cesena
3. 3. Bernie Sillis
4. 4. Tony Araiza
5. 5. Bernabe Ruiz

 

 

Top Release Captain- Pacific

Black Marlin

1. 1. Tim Dean

 

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Pete Rae
2. 2. Ben Horning
3. 3. Skeet Warren
4. 4. Victor Julio Lopez Pizarro
5. 5. Ronnie Fields

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Ronnie Fields
2. 2. Ben Horning
3. 3. Brad Philipps
4. 4. Mike Day
5. 5. Victor Julio Lopez Pizarro

 

Striped Marlin

1. 1. Eddy Cesena
2. 2. Pete Rae
3. 3. Alex Collins

 

 

Top Tagging Angler – Indian

Black Marlin

1. 1. Scott MacGowan
2. 2. Jo-Ann Riley
3. 3. Riley Smith

 

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Marcus Longhurst

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Henry Riggs-Miller
2. 2. Barry Sulllivan
3. 3. Kane Dysart
4. 4. Jo-Ann Riley
5. 5. Riley Smith

 

 

Top Tagging Captain- Indian

Black Marlin

1. 1. Eddy Lawler
2. 2. Jo-Ann Riley
3. 3. Bernard Vale
4. 4. Ross Newton
5. 5. Scott MacGowan

 

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Eddy Lawler
2. 2. Ross Newton
3. 3. Scott MacGowan
4. 4. Bernard Vale

 

Sailfish

1. 1. Rolly Pierre
2. 2. Jourdain (Jeda) Ellens
3. 3. Terence Farrell
4. 4. Eddy Lawler
5. 5. Perry Rosalie

 

Striped Marlin

1. 1. Eddy Lawler

 

 

Top Release Captain- Indian 

Black Marlin

1. 1. Ross Newton

 

 

Female Division (Tag)

1. Laura Jessen
2. Jo-Ann Riley
3. Lori Schroeder
4. Dawn Samuels
5. Martha Macnab

 

 

Female Division (Release)

1. Amanda Cofer
2. Tiffany Day
3. Laura Jessen
4. Cece Imbrie
5. Melissa Haight

 

 

Youth Division (Tag)

8 and under

1. Charles Gaddy
2. Earney White

 

9 – 12

1. Hefner Appling

 

13 – 15

1. Shawn MacMullin
2. Riley Smith
3. Kaleb Richardson
4. Jack Shanklin
5. Bo Ingram

 

16 – 17

1. Nick Brackmann

 

 

Youth Division (Release)

8 and under

1. Brown Gaddy
2. Charles Gaddy

 

13 – 15

1. Jonathan Gaskill
2. Will Stark
3. Riley Smith
4. Kaleb Richardson
5. Bo Ingram

 

 

GULF OF MEXICO MARLIN TAGGING COMPETITION
as of 8/26/15

Please note these standings are for eligible tag and release records for overall angler and captain categories. Standings for junior and lady categories will be calculated at the end of the competition period. Click here for more information.

 

Top Overall Tagging Angler

1. 1. Kaleb Richardson, Dana Foster (tie)
2. 2. Ben McMurray, Randy Parker (tie)
3. 3. Craig Jones, Reggie Ledet (tie)

 

 

Top Tagging Angler

White Marlin

1. 1. Reggie Ledet
2. 2. Dana Foster, Many Yeager, Tony Hunt (tie)

 

Blue Marlin

1. 2. Kaleb Richardson
2. 2. Dana Foster
3. 3. Randy Parker, Ben McMurray (tie)
4. 4. Craig Jones

 

Top Overall Tagging Captain

1. 1. Max Morris
2. 2. Jimmy Crochet, Myles Colley (tie)
3. 3. Adam Ladnier, Shane O’Brien (tie)
4. 4. Al Roper
5. 5. Brian Lord

 

Top Tagging Captain

White Marlin

1. 1. Adam Ladnier, Randy Pipes (tie)
2. 2. Matt Abram
3. 3. Myles Colley
4. 4. Al Roper, Brian Hunt, Billy Appel, Jimmy Crochet, Don Thrasher, James Guerineau, Jermie Ball, Richard Yeager (tie)

 

Top Tagging Captain

Blue Marlin

1. 1. Max Morris
2. 2. Jimmy Crochet, Shane Obrien (tie)
3. 3. Myles Colley
4. 4. Brian Lord, Al Roper (tie)
5. 5. Boyd Mothe, Adam Ladnier (tie)

 

Top Tagging Boat

1. 1. Whoo Dat
2. 2. Born2Run, Conundrum(tie)
3. 3. Southern Miss, Wild Hooker (tie)
4. 4. Michi
5. 5. Pipe Dream

 

 

SOFLO SAILFISH CIRCUIT
as of 8/26/15

Please note these standings are for eligible tag and release records for both overall and professional angler and captain categories. Standings for professional, junior, and lady categories will be calculated at the end of the competition period. Click here for more information.

 

Top Tagging Angler

1. 1. Dawn Samuels
   2. Shawn MacMullin
   3. Jeff Kramer, Mark Woodlinger (tie)
   4. Randall Scarlett

 

Top Tagging Captain

1. 1. Doug Covin
2. 2. Bouncer Smith
3. 3. Michael MacMullin
4. 4. James Knox
5. 5. Anthony Digiulian

 

Top Release Angler

1. 1. Chris Wren
2. 2. Eric Hull
3. 3. Cece Imbrie, Parker Williams (tie)
4. 4. Michael Kornahrens, Rick Murphy (tie)

 

Top Release Captain

1. 1. Dean Panos
2. 2. Doug Covin
3. 3. Jeff Scott
4. 4. Shawn Adams
5. 5. Jim Mulcahy

The post Tag & Release Competition Update 8/25/15 appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

TBF’s “conservation and responsible use” philosophy applauds anglers big enough to release the big marlin girls that are estimated at boat side to weigh 750 pounds and up. To honor the anglers, captains and mates who release these very large, female marlin, TBF created the Grander Release Club.   If a safe tagging opportunity is available when a decision is made to release the big marlin, tagging would be appreciated for it can generate needed recapture data. 

Reports of the grander releases should be submitted with a photo to [email protected].  In recognition of releasing the marlin, a newly designed TBF certificate will be sent to each team member, with their names entered into the Grander Release Club section on TBF’s website.  

Only with smart release investments will granders grow and be available for generations to come. 

Photo courtesy of Capt. Eddy Lawler of Peak Sportsfishing

 

The post The Billfish Foundation’s Grander Release Club appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Learn about all the tag and release data The Billfish Foundation received in the calendar year of 2013. The report highlights all those anglers and captains who participated in the Tag & Release program in 2013 and reveals the top locations for billfish as well as breakdowns for tags, releases, and recapture maps for each billfish species. Download the complete record here or purchase an original online today!

 

The post TBF’s 2014 International Billfish Conservation Record Now Available Online appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Sportfishing is quickly becoming a growing force, not just in the United States, but internationally. This past July, more than 13,000 representatives of the global sportfishing industry came together once again for the 58^th annual International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST).  2015 brought the biggest show yet for ICAST where vendors showcase the latest and greatest in fishing tackle, gear and accessories. However, the show not only focuses on the new innovations and fishing technology, but the importance of the sportfishing community working together for the betterment of the industry.

ICAST also gave TBF staff a great chance to meet with its current sponsors and network with the biggest names in the sportfishing industry. Costa, ORCA coolers, Pelagic, SIMRAD, Fathom Offshore, and Alutecnos were just a few of TBF supporters in attendance. A major feature of the convention is the New Product Showcase which 270 vendors put on display close to 900 new products for a chance to win “Best in Show.” Winners included the innovative and conservation minded Release Ruler and eyewear from Costa.

ICAST was also a great venue for highlighting the socioeconomic importance of the sport working to get the recognition it warrants. In attendance at this year was Florida governor, Rick Scott who took the time to meet with industry leaders for a round table discussion on how industry representatives and groups like TBF can be more effective in advocating for the future of the sport.  In addition to the new products on display, several seminars were held by advocacy groups such as the Center for Coastal Conservation (of which TBF is a member) on critical issues such as the effects of the Magnuson Stevens Act reauthorization on the fishing industry.

All in all, ICAST 2015 was the biggest and best yet and a great success for TBF as well. The innovation on display and opportunities for leaders of the sportfishing industries to work together during the convention really provide an excellent way to work collectively toward the growth of the industry. Like others, TBF is grateful to have a chance to participate and work with industry leaders which is necessary for the longevity of the sport and the marine resources they depend on.

The post TBF at 2015 ICAST appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

Tag & Release cards are really starting to come in and TBF’s annual Tag and Release Competition is heating up with less than 3 months to go! The “Top Five” in most of the competition categories are highlighted below. This list constitutes the tag and release records processed by TBF as of August 25, 2015.

Do you know anyone on the list? Are you in the top five and want to be recognized by the who’s who in the billfishing community at our ceremony? Be sure to tag, release, and report your billfish catches before the end of the competition on October 31, 2015. Remember you can submit your records online now at www.tagbillfish.org or you can submit them through the mail. The last date that TBF can receive tag and release cards for this competition year is November 15, 2015.

Award winners will be recognized at TBF’s Annual Tag & Release Awards Ceremony held during the Miami International Boat Show presented by the TBF Tag and Release Sponsors, Bisbee’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Fund, Casa Vieja Lodge, Costa Sunglasses, Pelagic, and SIMRAD.

As of 8/25/15

Overall Release Captain

1. Ronnie Fields
2. Ben Horning
3. Pete Rae
4. Dean Panos
5. Brad Philipps

 

Overall Tagging Captain

1. Ben Horning
2. Thomas Colquhoun
3. Eddy Lawler
4. Rom Whitaker
5. Ronnie Fields

 

Overall Release Angler

1. Gray Ingram
2. Pat McCotter
3. John Duvall
4. Amanda Cofer
5. Tiffany Day

 

Overall Tagging Angler

1. Chris Jessen
2. Laura Jessen
3. Gray Ingram
4. Darryl Schroeder
5. John Duvall

 

Overall Release Lady Angler

1. Amanda Cofer
2. Tiffany Day
3. Laura Jessen
4. Cece Imbrie
5. Melissa Haight

 

Overall Tagging Lady Angler

1. Laura Jessen
2. Jo-Ann Riley
3. Lori Schroeder
4. Dawn Samuels
5. Martha MacNab

 

Overall Release Youth Angler

1. Brown Gaddy
2. Jonathan Gaskill
3. Charles Gaddy
4. Will Stark
5. Riley Smith

 

Overall Tagging Youth Angler

1. Charles Gaddy
2. Shawn MacMullin
3. Riley Smith
4. Kaleb Richardson
5. Jack Shanklin

 

 

Top Tagging Angler- Atlantic

Blue Marlin

1. Gray Ingram
2. Kaleb Richardson
3. Bo Ingram
4. Gary Pirko
5. Gary Ellis

 

Sailfish

1. Charles Gaddy
2. Glenn Creamer
3. Dawn Samuels
4. Shawn MacMullin
5. Nuno Abohbot

 

Swordfish

1. Richard Gudoian

 

White Marlin

1. Nick Rauco
2. Bill Heiligbrodt
3. Peter Cherasia
4. Corinne Heiligbrodt
5. Will Stark

 

 

Top Release Angler- Atlantic

Blue Marlin

1. Gray Ingram
2. Gary Pirko
3. Kaleb Richardson
4. Joe Capaletti
5. Bo Ingram

 

Sailfish

1. Brown Gaddy
2. Nathan Walker
3. Cody Gavalier
4. Chris Wrenn
5. Junior Baas

 

White Marlin

1. Corinne Heiligbrodt
2. Bill Heiligbrodt
3. Will Stark
4. Matthew Sullivan
5. Layton Russell

 

 

Top Tagging Captain- Atlantic

Blue Marlin

1. Ronnie Fields
2. Max Morris
3. Tim Richardson
4. Jason Pipe
5. Eddy Lawler

 

Sailfish

1. Fin Gaddy
2. Rom Whitaker
3. Doug Covin
4. Bouncer Smith
5. Jon Brooks

 

White Marlin

1. Rich Barrett
2. Jimmy Grant
3. Tim Richardson
4. Eric Mansur, Sr.
5. Antonio Amaral

 

 

Top Release Captain- Atlantic

Blue Marlin

1. Ronnie Fields
2. Dennis Endee
3. Dean Panos
4. Max Morris
5. Eric Mansur, Sr.

 

Sailfish

1. Dean Panos
2. Fin Gaddy
3. Rom Whitaker
4. Doug Covin
5. Jeff Scott

 

White Marlin

1. Dennis Endee
2. Jimmy Grant
3. Tim Richardson
4. Brian Sullivan
5. Eric Mansur, Sr.

 

 

Top Tagging Angler- Pacific

Blue Marlin

1. Chris Jessen
2. Laura Jessen
3. Rob Wilson
4. John Duvall

 

Sailfish

1. Chris Jessen
2. Laura Jessen
3. Darryl Schoeder
4. Lori Schroeder
5. Scott Kozak

 

Striped Marlin

1. John Duvall
2. Robert Hendricks
3. Martha MacNab
4. Nick Brackmann
5. Judy Sillis

 

 

Top Release Angler- Pacific

Black Marlin

1. Mark Davis

 

Blue Marlin

1. Pat McCotter
2. Jonathan Gaskill
3. Chris Jessen
4. Amanda Cofer
5. Rob Wilson

 

Sailfish

1. Gray Ingram
2. John Duvall
3. Amanda Cofer
4. Tiffany Day
5. Chris Jessen

 

Striped Marlin

1. John Duvall
2. Pat McCotter

 

 

Top Tagging Captain- Pacific

Black Marlin

1. Tim Richardson

 

Blue Marlin

1. Ben Horning
2. Skeet Warren
3. Eddy Lawler
4. Sean Swetman
5. Chris Van Leeuwen

 

Sailfish

1. Ben Horning
2. Thomas Colquhoun
3. Chris Sheeder
4. Cliff Mountain
5. David Salazar

 

Striped Marlin

1. Jaime Gonzalez
2. Eddy Cesena
3. Bernie Sillis
4. Tony Araiza
5. Bernabe Ruiz

 

 

Top Release Captain- Pacific

Black Marlin

1. Tim Dean

 

Blue Marlin

1. Pete Rae
2. Ben Horning
3. Skeet Warren
4. Victor Julio Lopez Pizarro
5. Ronnie Fields

 

Sailfish

1. Ronnie Fields
2. Ben Horning
3. Brad Philipps
4. Mike Day
5. Victor Julio Lopez Pizarro

 

Striped Marlin

1. Eddy Cesena
2. Pete Rae
3. Alex Collins

 

 

Top Tagging Angler – Indian

Black Marlin

1. Scott MacGowan
2. Jo-Ann Riley
3. Riley Smith

 

Blue Marlin

1. Marcus Longhurst

 

Sailfish

1. Henry Riggs-Miller
2. Barry Sulllivan
3. Kane Dysart
4. Jo-Ann Riley
5. Riley Smith

 

 

Top Tagging Captain- Indian

Black Marlin

1. Eddy Lawler
2. Jo-Ann Riley
3. Bernard Vale
4. Ross Newton
5. Scott MacGowan

 

Blue Marlin

1. Eddy Lawler
2. Ross Newton
3. Scott MacGowan
4. Bernard Vale

 

Sailfish

1. Rolly Pierre
2. Jourdain (Jeda) Ellens
3. Terence Farrell
4. Eddy Lawler
5. Perry Rosalie

 

Striped Marlin

1. Eddy Lawler

 

 

Top Release Captain- Indian 

Black Marlin

1. Ross Newton

 

 

Female Division (Tag)

1. Laura Jessen
2. Jo-Ann Riley
3. Lori Schroeder
4. Dawn Samuels
5. Martha Macnab

 

 

Female Division (Release)

1. Amanda Cofer
2. Tiffany Day
3. Laura Jessen
4. Cece Imbrie
5. Melissa Haight

 

 

Youth Division (Tag)

8 and under

1. Charles Gaddy
2. Earney White

 

9 – 12

1. Hefner Appling

 

13 – 15

1. Shawn MacMullin
2. Riley Smith
3. Kaleb Richardson
4. Jack Shanklin
5. Bo Ingram

 

16 – 17

1. Nick Brackmann

 

 

Youth Division (Release)

8 and under

1. Brown Gaddy
2. Charles Gaddy

 

13 – 15

1. Jonathan Gaskill
2. Will Stark
3. Riley Smith
4. Kaleb Richardson
5. Bo Ingram

 

 

GULF OF MEXICO MARLIN TAGGING COMPETITION
as of 8/26/15

Please note these standings are for eligible tag and release records for overall angler and captain categories. Standings for junior and lady categories will be calculated at the end of the competition period. Click here for more information.

 

Top Overall Tagging Angler

1. Kaleb Richardson, Dana Foster (tie)
2. Ben McMurray, Randy Parker (tie)
3. Craig Jones, Reggie Ledet (tie)

 

 

Top Tagging Angler

White Marlin

1. Reggie Ledet
2. Dana Foster, Many Yeager, Tony Hunt (tie)

 

Blue Marlin

1. Kaleb Richardson
2. Dana Foster
3. Randy Parker, Ben McMurray (tie)
4. Craig Jones

 

Top Overall Tagging Captain

1. Max Morris
2. Jimmy Crochet, Myles Colley (tie)
3. Adam Ladnier, Shane O’Brien (tie)
4. Al Roper
5. Brian Lord

 

Top Tagging Captain

White Marlin

1. Adam Ladnier, Randy Pipes (tie)
2. Matt Abram
3. Myles Colley
4. Al Roper, Brian Hunt, Billy Appel, Jimmy Crochet, Don Thrasher, James Guerineau, Jermie Ball, Richard Yeager (tie)

 

Top Tagging Captain

Blue Marlin

1. Max Morris
2. Jimmy Crochet, Shane Obrien (tie)
3. Myles Colley
4. Brian Lord, Al Roper (tie)
5. Boyd Mothe, Adam Ladnier (tie)

 

Top Tagging Boat

1. Whoo Dat
2. Born2Run, Conundrum(tie)
3. Southern Miss, Wild Hooker (tie)
4. Michi
5. Pipe Dream

 

 

SOFLO SAILFISH CIRCUIT
as of 8/26/15

Please note these standings are for eligible tag and release records for both overall and professional angler and captain categories. Standings for professional, junior, and lady categories will be calculated at the end of the competition period. Click here for more information.

 

Top Tagging Angler

1. Dawn Samuels
2. Shawn MacMullin
3. Jeff Kramer, Mark Woodlinger (tie)
4. Randall Scarlett

 

Top Tagging Captain

1. Doug Covin
2. Bouncer Smith
3. Michael MacMullin
4. James Knox
5. Anthony Digiulian

 

Top Release Angler

1. Chris Wren
2. Eric Hull
3. Cece Imbrie, Parker Williams (tie)
4. Michael Kornahrens, Rick Murphy (tie)

 

Top Release Captain

1. Dean Panos
2. Doug Covin
3. Jeff Scott
4. Shawn Adams
5. Jim Mulcahy

The post Tag & Release Competition Update 8/25/15 appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.

PAXSON “PACKY” OFFIELD, former chairman of The Billfish Foundation’s (TBF) board of directors, passed away Sunday June 14th at his home in Michigan. In 2011, Offield was the recipient of TBF’s most prestigious award, the Rybovich Lifetime Achievement Award.

He was a man who cared deeply for the world’s natural resources and matched that passion with support for research and conservation of billfish, bison, eagles, peregrine
falcons and foxes. He also supported science to fight disease and to provide basic services, including funds for well water in a very distant remote area so the quality of life for others could be improved. Giving of his time and support included an array of organizations and causes, including serving as Chairman of the Santa Catalina Island Company, the Offield Center for Billfish Studies, the Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies at USC, the Center for the Reproduction of Endangered Species at the San Diego Zoological Society, the Catalina Seabass Fund, the Avalon Tuna Club, the Catalina Conservancy, the IGFA, Offield Family Foundation, the Peregrine Fund, the Little Traverse Conservancy, Silver Creek Fishing Club, the Avalon Planning Commission, the Catalina Island Chamber of
Commerce and Catalina CHOICES, a drug and alcohol treatment program for the youth of Catalina Island.

Offield’s support of TBF made possible the organization’s commitment to remain firmly grounded in science; and through his support, our understanding of billfish stock
structure, ecology and assessment science methodologies has been advanced and remain important today. He understood the power that applied science, along with economics,
has on developing credible management decisions.

While strongly committed to billfish and other sciences, Offield was no “science
geek”; he was a top notch angler, offshore on his 85-foot Garlington, the
Kelsey Lee, named in honor of his daughter, and as an avid fly fisherman enjoying both lakes and rivers. He also loved sailing, playing golf, skiing, kayaking, cooking, reading, photography and writing poetry. Offield’s positive footprint on the world’s natural  resources, on science and individuals lucky enough to have known him is great. He will be sadly missed, but his legacy can continue if all who were touched by him continue the work he recognized as important.

He is survived by his wife, Susan, daughter Kelsey, sons Chase (Jena), who is a TBF Board Member and Calen (Amber); and stepson Rex, his brother James, and three grandchildren
Capri, Christian and Owen.

The post PAXSON “PACKY” OFFIELD – let’s continue his legacy… appeared first on The Billfish Foundation.