By Pete Johnson, Johnson Communications – IGFA PR Counsel

IGFA School of Sportfishing announces fall classes

The IGFA has announced its newest School of Sportfishing fall series of classes to begin in late August and will run through mid-October.

This is the eighth session for the popular School.

Launched in 2006 by the IGFA in association with Saltwater Professional Consulting and Captain Tony DiGiulian, the Tuesday night classes run from 7 – 10 p.m., and are taught at the IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum.

Limited to a class size of 24 anglers the IGFA School of Sportfishing offers a unique experience for anglers who want to obtain the skills, information and techniques necessary to maximize their overall success on the water. Each course includes printed materials along with the equipment and hands-on instruction where anglers have a chance to interact and learn from professional fishermen who they would usually only read about in fishing magazines or see on television.

“Not only are these anglers and captains some of the best fishermen in each respective discipline, they are also willing and able to share their knowledge with you,” said IGFA Education Director David Matagiese.

Matagiese outlined the subjects and dates of the next eight classes:

  • “Understanding Your Onboard Electronics” taught by Capt. Karl Anderson, August 26
  • “Fishing For Trophy Snook” with Capt. Mark Zaskey, Sept. 2
  • “Four Fundamentals Every Sportfisherman Should Know” taught by Capt. Tony DiGiulian, Sept. 9
  • “The Basics of Rigging and Trolling Artificial Lures” with instructor Capt. Josh Brown, Sept. 16.
  • “All About Live Bait” taught by Capt. Shawn Fairbanks, Sept. 23.
  • “Bottom Fishing Wrecks and Reefs” instructed by Capt. Bouncer Smith, Sept. 30
  • “Conquering Sailfish” with teacher Capt. Bouncer Smith, Oct. 7
  • “Targeting Largemouth and Peacock Bass” with Capt Alan Zaremba, Oct. 14

“We introduced our first “onboard electronics class” last May and the attendees got loads of information so we’re including this very informative class with electronics guru, Capt. Karl Anderson of Marlin Magazine as the instructor,” said Matagiese. “With the technological advances today’s onboard electronics go through, anglers are looking to stay on the cutting edge and make their electronics work for them. This class gives participants that ability to get hands-on instruction from an industry leader.”

For the first time the IGFA is offering a class specifically for the freshwater angler entitled “targeting largemouth and peacock bass.”

“There’s been an overwhelming response to hold a bass class and South Florida bass fishing legend Capt Alan Zaremba, who’s led anglers to many impressive catches as a professional guide over 20 years, is the ideal instructor for it. His insatiable desire to target these fish has taken him all over the world and he has been featured on numerous fishing shows.”

The six other classes offered are among the most requested by participants.

The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 each for non-members.

For more details visit the website at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp to assess which courses are appropriate for specific skill levels. You may also sign up online at www.igfa.org/sosform.asp. Or contact Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or via e-mail at dmatagiese@igfa.org, or Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or via e-mail at reservations@igfa.org .

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IGFA, other associations form conservation coalition

The IGFA is among a coalition of five associations along with individual conservationists and businesses to form the Center for Coastal Conservation (CCC), a non-partisan national organization dedicated to enacting sensible marine conservation laws through education and political action.

Along with the IGFA, the other groups include the American Sportfishing Assoc. (ASA), The Billfish Fo
undation (TBF) the National Marine Manufacturers Assoc. (NMMA) and the Coastal Conservation Assoc. (CCA). Though the groups hold a wide range of interests the new coalition will focus on federal policy and elections starting in 2008.

The announcement was made at a news conference during the ICAST fishing tackle trade show in Las Vegas in July.

IGFA President Rob Kramer and IGFA International Hall of Famer Walter Fondren III; will serve on the CCC’s 12 member board of directors. IGFA Trustee Bill Shedd represented Kramer who was in Japan during the news conference.

“The Center fills a vacuum that existed on the national scene for a business-oriented organization dedicated to protecting America’s coastal resources through involvement in the political process,” said Jack Lawton, Jr., the group’s founding chairman. “The Center is already involved in the 2008 election process through support of candidates for the House and Senate who we believe can support our goals.”

Lawton emphasized that The Center brings under a single umbrella the leading advocates for marine recreational fishing and boating. The new organization promotes sound conservation and use of ocean resources by backing federal legislators who support its goals. The Center will focus on promoting a quality recreational fishery; ending over fishing; rebuilding plans for fisheries; improving angling and boating access, and working waterfronts and marinas.

“The Center focuses on helping elect conservation-minded men and women to the U.S. House and Senate and educating all Members of Congress regarding issues that are important to recreational fishing and boating,” said Lawton. “We have an active PAC, and we are engaging in more than 30 races.”

The Center’s mission is to promote good stewardship of America’s marine resources with its members participating in federal elections through gifts to its political action committee, Center PAC (similar to what large groups like the NRA exert for hunting, shooting sports and wildlife conservation).

“Every year, more than 12 million Americans enjoy wetting a line in our oceans and along our coasts,” said Kramer. “More than just a traditional American pastime and contributor to conservation, saltwater recreational fishing is a major economic driver generating more than $30 billion in economic impact and supporting nearly 350,000 jobs nationwide. As such, there needs to be a clear and coordinated message to the decision makers within our federal government to ensure that this constituency is heard and given appropriate consideration.

“Current tax laws severely limit the ability of not-for-profit organizations like the IGFA to become involved in the political process. The Center for Coastal Conservation provides a much-needed mechanism for angling organizations and individuals to communicate a unified message to political leaders and other government officials.”

“As an international organization with members in more than 120 countries and territories,” Kramer continued, “the IGFA would like to see the United States become a more proactive leader in international fisheries issues affecting fishermen around the world. The first step to doing this is by becoming a higher priority for our government right here in the United States. We feel that our nearly 70-year reputation as a leader in game fish conservation and our international knowledge of recreational fishing will be a great benefit to the newly created Center.”

Jefferson Angers of Louisiana is the Center’s first president. He previously served as executive director and CEO of the CCA of Louisiana for 15 years.

“We’re committed to conservation policies that conserve natural resources while keeping them accessible for recreational fishing, boating and other uses that don’t cause harm,” Angers said. “Some seem to believe that good conservation can only be best achieved by restricting access to our resources, and others favor exploiting resources with few restrictions. Our philosophy is that we can balance effective conservation with sensible access.”

“We have high hopes for a more proactive approach to fisheries management and look forward to working with our colleagues on this joint effort,” Kramer added.

For more information, visit www.CoastalConservation.US.

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IGFA expedition fishing trip filling up

Three openings of the dozen limited slots are still available for the IGFA Expedition Series trip to Piñas Bay, Panama, an event described as the ultimate once-in-a lifetime sport fishing experience.

“This adventure follows in the footsteps of the early game fish pioneers exploring the abundant waters of Piñas Bay, Panama, for the world’s greatest game fish,” said IGFA Development Director Eric Combast. “The targeted fish include blue marlin, black marlin, tuna and other top game species found in the waters surrounding the world famous Tropic Star Lodge.”

The expedition team leaders includes veteran journalist Capt. Karl Anderson, IGFA President Rob Kramer, former IGFA President Mike Leech, TV host and IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Famer Mark Sosin and IGFA World Record Holder Raleigh Werking. This group of five experienced and exceptional anglers will provide an action-packed excursion with valuable fishing tips and guidance.

The journey begins September 15 upon arrival in Panama City, Panama.

“The following day the anglers will take a 50-minute plane ride to Tropic Star Lodge,” said Combast, “and then it’s three days of fishing on beautiful Piñas Bay with our Expedition Series leaders.”

The cost of this all-inclusive expedition is $10,000 USD. A portion of the cost will be tax deductible to the extent allowed by the law.

For more information on this exciting opportunity, please call Combast at 954-924-4325 or email ecombast@igfa.org.

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Tickets on sale for 10th IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame induction

Tickets are on sale for the one of the IGFA’s most celebrated events of the year with the induction ceremony for the tenth class into the International Fishing Hall of Fame, October 25.

The evening focuses on the five member class of 2008 recognizing the honorees for the important contributions they made to the sport of fishing through angling achievements, the arts, literature, science, education, communication, invention or administration of fishery resources.

The five inductees and their contributions include: the late Henry Chee a renowned Hawaii guide and innovator offshore lures; the late Dr. Roy Dean, founder of the Intl. Light Tackle Tournament Assoc., early promoter of catch-and-release and researcher of billfish migration, Jimmy Houston, professional bass fisherman and TV show host; Kay Rybovich co-founder of the Intl. Women’s Fishing Assoc., conservationist and one of the grand ladies of sport fishing, and Karl Wickstrom founder and Editor-in-Chief of Florida Sportsman magazine, who initiated and chaired the Save Our Sealife campaign that banned gill nets and revitalized Florida’s inshore waters

The evening’s activities which begin at 6 p.m., include a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner and induction ceremony takes place at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame in Dania Beach, Fla., USA.

Tickets for the evening are $200 per person and the public is invited.

Seventy Hall of Fame members are currently enshrined and include Ernest Hemingway, Zane Grey, Curt Gowdy, Ted Williams, Michael and Helen Lerner, Philip Wylie and John Rybovich.

Special sponsorships and sponsor tables are available. For reservation, sponsorship or further information, contact Lesley Arico at the International Game Fish Association, 300 Gulf Stream Way, Dania Beach, Florida, 33004. Email: larico@igfa.org, by phone 954-924-4222, or fax 954-924-4299.

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Great donation items arriving for 25th IGFA Intl. Auction and Banquet

Big things are already happening in preparation for the “Silver Anniversary” of the IGFA’s premier
fundraising event, the 25th Annual International Auction & Banquet next year.

The event will take place Friday, January 23, 2009, at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Fla.

The IGFA is already receiving a wide range of donations with more coming in daily.

Featured this year will be renowned marine artist, conservationist and marine biologist, Dr. Guy Harvey. Harvey, an IGFA Trustee and long time auction supporter, has promised a special piece to commemorate the milestone.

“Each guest will receive a signed and numbered print of his original artwork,” said IGFA Corporate Relations Manager Ms. Lesley Arico.

She said other donations include an original sculpture by past featured artist, David Wirth, a week for two at the fantastic Tropic Star Lodge in Panama, a safari for two to Zulu Nyala in South Africa, an original bronze sculpture by Bodo Muche, a seven-day wels catfishing trip for two to Europe, fishing charters, rods and reels, tackle, jewelry, resorts, and much more.

Tickets are $175 per person or a corporate table for 10 people can be purchased for $3000 that includes preferred table placement, a full-page ad in the auction program, table signage and table favors. To make reservations, an auction donation or if you need further information please contact Ms. Arico at 954-924-4222 or email larico@igfa.org.

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IGFA mourns passing of trustee John “Jack” Anderson II

John Wendell “Jack” Anderson II, a gentleman who was a significant contributor to the evolution of the IGFA International Fishing Hall of Fame and its museum and who served three decades as a trustee, has died.

A resident of Palm Beach, Fla. USA, since 1981, Anderson passed away on July 17 in Hamilton, Bermuda at the age of 84.

The former industrialist, world traveler, avid sports fisherman and golf enthusiast, was born September 16, 1923 in Pittsburgh, Pa.

With his passion for ethical sport fishing and scientific marine inquiry, Anderson served for 30 years on the IGFA Board of Trustees, and as its Vice Chairman for 20 years. He played a pivotal role in the fundraising and design decisions to make the 60-year dream of a permanent home for the IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame and museum a reality.

As he ran the Bundy Corporation, his family’s steel tubing company for 45 years building it into a multinational force, Anderson traveled to — and fished — all parts of the globe. He was on the forefront as angling flourished after World War II. Jack became a regular in the Bahamas in 1947, where he often went bonefishing in the morning for the bait he would use to entice blue marlin in the afternoon.

In 1978 and 1983, off Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Anderson made two remarkable catches: a 1,318 lb black marlin landed in 57 minutes and a 1,307 lb fish taken in 47 minutes. Anderson is one of only two anglers to accomplish such a feat.

Anderson has caught Atlantic blue marlin and bluefin tuna over 800 lb, Pacific blue marlin over 900lb, and has made 10-to-1 catches of black marlin, blue marlin, striped marlin and Pacific sailfish, something that few anglers achieve with even a single species.

With his knowledgeable, scientific approach to big-game angling and fascination with marine life and the world’s oceans, Anderson worked with ichthyologists, oceanographers, technicians and other qualified personnel, including his fishing captain Bill Fagen, over a several month fishing expedition collecting specimens in exotic locales.

Anderson’s family requests that memorial tributes be made to the International Game Fish Association, 300 Gulf Stream Way, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. (For more on Jack Anderson’s life please see the IGFA web site www.igfa.org – home page: “Latest News”)

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August Hot Catches

Each month the world records department of the International Game Fish Association provides highlights of selected documented fish catches made across the globe submitted for world records. A couple of young anglers lead off the nine recent submissions that IGFA world records coordinator Rebecca Wright provided which are now before the world records committee.

As a young angler Amber M. Rooney, Wall Township, N.H., USA has jump-started her early love for fishing by landing a striper and possibly her first IGFA record. Using menhaden for bait while fishing New Jersey’s Shark River and guided by Rory T. Rooney Jr. she landed the striped bass (Morone saxatilis) on June 10th weighing 22.23 kg (49 lb, 0 oz) for a possible female smallfry class record. She’s hoping it beats the current IGFA record of 42 lb 9 oz caught off Long Beach, N.Y. last year. (Photo: striped bass – 08060035)

Another youngster Noah Amiel, of Richmond Hill, ON, Canada, landed a common carp (Cyprinus carpio) on May 17, weighing 13.15 kg (29 lb 0 oz) for possibly a new IGFA male smallfry record. He used corn for bait while fishing a lake in Toronto, Canada. The current record is 26 lb caught in the George’s River N.S.W. Australia in June 2004. (Photo: common carp – 08070001)

Guided by Jason Pipe, it took just two minutes for Plantation, Fla. USA angler Gary Carter, to land an Atlantic blue marlin (Makaira nigricans) on June 4 weighing 161.93 kg (357 lb 0 oz) on men’s 3 kg (6 lb) line class record. He was using mackerel for bait while fishing off La Gomera in the Canary Islands. The current IGFA record for the species was set in 2001 for a 336 lb caught off the Cape Verde Islands. (Photo: Atlantic blue marlin – 08060042)

Dave Speer, of Lewisville, Texas, USA hopes to be the first to have his name in the record books for catching a smallmouth buffalo (Ictiobus bubalus) on fly using 1 kg (2 lb) tippet. The fish which weighed 2.95 kg (6 lb 8 oz) on June 13 was caught on a sucker punch fly from the Elm Fork of Texas’ Trinity River.(Photo: smallmouth buffalo – 08060043)

Fly fishing in Africa, Texas angler, Stan Nabozny of The Woodlands, USA, guided by Andrew Parsons, landed a ladyfish (Elops spp.) on June 3 weighing 4.42 kg (9 lb 12 oz). He used a clouser minnow on 8 kg (16 lb) tippet class fishing the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique. The current men’s IGFA tippet record of 5 lb 12 oz was caught last year near home Texas east coast at Port Isabel. (Photo: ladyfish – 08060046)

On June 11, Christine Perez, Mims, Fla., USA, guided by Capt Troy Perez, landed a 9.07 kg (20 lb 0 oz) red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) on 3 kg (6 lb) class tippet. It struck on a clouser and took Perez 30 minutes to land while fishing Buras, Louisiana, USA. Ms. Perez is hoping to beat her current IGFA women’s 6 lb tippet fly record of an 18 lb red drum caught on Mosquito Lagoon, Fla., 10 years ago. (Photo: red drum – 08060052)

Auckland, New Zealander Guy Jacobsen, is hoping to beat a 25-year old light line record after catching a blue shark (Prionace glauca). Guided by John Batterton and using live mackerel for bait, it took Jacobsen 10 minutes to land the fish on May 31, which weighed 57.4 kg (126 lb 8 oz) on 1 kg (2 lb) class line. The current IGFA line record is 119 lb caught off Shinnecock, Long Island, NY in 1983. (Photo: blue shark – 08070002)

Lake Deifenbaker in Canada has been the site of many IGFA freshwater records and Cory James McLachlan, Outlook, Saskatchewan, may have landed another one with a 15.93 kg (35 lb 2 oz) rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) on May 3. McLauhlan used 15 kg (30 lb) class line with herring for bait and took 10 minutes to land the fish. The current record is 31 lb 6 oz caught in Lake Michigan off Wheaton, Illinois 15 years ago. (Photo: rainbow trout – 28369)

While fishing the Amazon River, Brazilian angler Gilberto Fernandes, of Mao, AM, landed a barred sorubim (Pseudoplatystoma faciatum) on April 26 weighing 16.17 kg (35 lb 10 oz). He used a small catfish for bait and fought the sorubim for 30 minutes. Fernandes has applied for an IGFA All-Tackle class record that could replace the Sept. 2000 record for a catch of a 29 lb 12 oz specimen from the Kuluene River in Brazil. (Photo: barred sorubim – 08070023)

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–At the Museum—

IGFA welcomes new museum director

The IGFA recently named Ryan Dick as the new Museum Director of the IGFA International Fishing Hall of Fame in Dania Beach, Fla., USA.

A native Floridian and a South Florida resident for most of his life, Ryan grew up fishing the freshwater, inshore and offshore waters around his home. An avid diver as well, he worked many summers as a divemaster out of the Palm Beach Inlet while completing his education at Florida State University, graduating with a Master of Science degree in Integrated Marketing Communication.

Ryan comes from The Zimmerman Agency in Tallahassee, Fla., where he was an account supervisor working with clients such as Costa Del Mar and Bertram Yachts, Inc. His love of education, conservation and the general public coupled with his background in marketing make him a great addition to the IGFA team.

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From the IGFA — Did You Know?

  • Fishing rods must have minimum tip length of 40 inches to be IGFA legal
  • The eel catfish, (Channallabes apus), can capture insect prey on dry land
  • The transition between fishes and terrestrial vertebrates occurred over 370 million years ago
  • Fish school not only to evade predators, but also because it allows individuals to swim with less effort
  • In 2004, 761 billfish anglers reported catching 3,409 Pacific billfish during 4,988 fishing days.

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Calendar of future IGFA events

Now through September 2008 – Sharkwater, award-winning feature length film and exhibition, IGFA International Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA – Extended through September due to popular demand, the much-acclaimed 90-minute documentary film, and winner of 19 international awards, is being shown four times daily on Saturdays at 10:15 a.m., noon, 1:45 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. and Sunday’s at noon, 1:45 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. On weekdays it’s shown at 3:30 p.m. An interactive and educational exhibition based around shark conservation is also featured in the Museum’s Changing Gallery. Monthly lectures featuring local and national shark experts are also scheduled. The IGFA International Fishing Hall of Fame is located at 300 Gulf Stream Way, off I-95 in Dania Beach next to Bass Pro Shops. The hall is open daily from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free to IGFA members. Guest fees are $6 for adults and $5 for seniors and children ages 3 – 16. For more information phone the IGFA at 954-924-4370.

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Now through Aug 15, 2008IGFA’s final weeks of Summer Camps, IGFA International Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA – Now in its ninth year the IGFA’s popular nine weekly camps are held during the summer break for children ages 8 to 13. Campers explore the aquatic environment and participate in many fishing adventures and exciting marine life activities. Each week-long camp session is held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Before and after-care is available from 8 – 9 a.m. and 4 – 6 p.m. Pre-registration is required. For more information, go to the IGFA summer camp website at www.igfa.org/summercamp.asp. There’s a maximum of 45 children per week, so parents are encouraged to reserve early. Registration is available by calling the IGFA education department at 954-924-4309 or via email at reservations@igfa.org.

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August 26, 2008 IGFA School of Sportfishing; Understanding Your Onboard Electronics” IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Today’s marine electronics are capable of some amazing things if you know how to properly utilize them. Learn some new tricks for making yourself a more efficient angler as we show you how to make your electronics work for you. Conducted by Capt. Karl Anderson, this is not your regular fishing seminar series. Each class is limited to 24 anglers, featuring hands-on instruction letting students interact and learn from some of the best anglers and captains sharing knowledge in their respective discipline. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 per class for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials and fishing equipment relevant to each topic. For more details go to the IGFA web site at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp or contact David Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or dmatagiese@igfa.org, or contact Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or reservations@igfa.org

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Sept. 2, 2008 IGFA School of Sportfishing; “Fishing for Trophy Snook” IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Learn how to successfully target and find monster snook. This class will show you how to work underwater structure using proven techniques including how to consistently provoke huge strikes. Learn from one of the innovators what it takes to land that lunker snook. Conducted by Capt. Mark Zaskey, this is not your regular fishing seminar series. Each class is limited to 24 anglers, featuring hands-on instruction letting students interact and learn from some of the best anglers and captains sharing knowledge in their respective discipline. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 per class for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials and fishing equipment relevant to each topic. For more details go to the IGFA web site at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp or contact David Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or dmatagiese@igfa.org, or contact Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or reservations@igfa.org

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Sept. 9, 2008 IGFA School of Sportfishing; Four Fundamentals Every Sportfisherman Should KnowIGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. If you’re new to the game or a seasoned vet to the sport, these are must have skills every sportfisherman should know. This intensive hands-on class will cover different types of bait rigging, how to fill your live well by properly throwing a cast net, how to tie critical knots for double line, line-to-line, terminal connections, and wire twists, and also proper terminal tackle prep like crimping, making leaders and hook sharpening. Conducted by Capt. Tony DiGiulian, this is not your regular fishing seminar series. Each class is limited to 24 anglers, featuring hands-on instruction letting students interact and learn from some of the best anglers and captains sharing knowledge in their respective discipline. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 per class for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials and fishing equipment relevant to each topic. For more details go to the IGFA web site at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp or contact David Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or dmatagiese@igfa.org, or contact Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or reservations@igfa.org

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Sept. 16, 2008 IGFA School of Sportfishing; The Basics of Rigging and Trolling Artificial Lures” IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Find out why lure making is considered an art form. All about how and why lures work; be proficient in re-skirting your own lures and building hook sets. Conducted by Capt. Josh Brown, this is not your regular fishing seminar series. Each class is limited to 24 anglers, featuring hands-on instruction letting students interact and learn from some of the best anglers and captains sharing knowledge in their respective discipline. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 per class for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials and fishing equipment relevant to each topic. For more details go to the IGFA web site at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp or contact David Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or dmatagiese@igfa.org, or contact Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or reservations@igfa.org

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Sept. 20, 2008Grand Opening of Tinomana Vachot Exhibit, IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame Art Gallery, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. Tahitian artist Tinomana Vachot combines the traditional art of the Marquesas, Society, Tuamotu, and Hawaiian Islands creating intricate designs that capture the beauty, spirit, and culture of the Polynesian Triangle Paradise. For more information please call Joanie Tomlin at the IGFA at 954-924-4312 or email her at JTomlin@igfa.org.

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Sept. 23, 2008 IGFA School of Sportfishing; All About Live Bait” IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Having good live bait can be the difference between catching fish or not. We show you where and how to catch several different species of live bait and how to keep them healthy. When you leave this class you will be able to throw a cast net. Conducted by Capt. Shawn Fairbanks, this is not your regular fishing seminar series. Each class is limited to 24 anglers, featuring hands-on instruction letting students interact and learn from some of the best anglers and captains sharing knowledge in their respective discipline. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 per class for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials and fishing equipment relevant to each topic. For more details go to the IGFA web site at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp or contact David Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or dmatagiese@igfa.org, or contact Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or reservations@igfa.org

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Sept. 30, 2008 IGFA School of Sportfishing; “Bottom Fishing Wrecks and Reefs” IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m If you have ever had a slow day trolling and wished for some serious rod bending action, then this is the class for you. Techniques for snapper and grouper are just some of what you will learn from one of the greatest fishermen of our generation. Conducted by Capt. Bouncer Smith, this is not your regular fishing seminar series. Each class is limited to 24 anglers, featuring hands-on instruction letting students interact and learn from some of the best anglers and captains sharing knowledge in their respective discipline. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 per class for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials and fishing equipment relevant to each topic. For more details go to the IGFA web site at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp or contact David Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or dmatagiese@igfa.org, or contact Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or reservations@igfa.org

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October 7, 2008 IGFA School of Sportfishing; “Conquering Sailfish” IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Find out how to successfully pursue and catch one of South Florida’s premiere game fish. Topics will include bait rigging, following fish, success with circle hooks, bridling baits and catching multiples. Learn the tricks of the trade that allow professionals to remain at the top of their game. Conducted by Capt. Bouncer Smith, this is not your regular fishing seminar series. Each class is limited to 24 anglers, featuring hands-on instruction letting students interact and learn from some of the best anglers and captains sharing knowledge in their respective discipline. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 per class for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials and fishing equipment relevant to each topic. For more details go to the IGFA web site at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp or contact David Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or dmatagiese@igfa.org, or contact Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or reservations@igfa.org

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October 14, 2008 IGFA School of Sportfishing; “Targeting Largemouth and Peacock Bass” IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla. USA. – 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Find out what it takes to successfully target these freshwater species. From finding the fish to knowing what to throw at them, this class will teach you all you need to know in order to consistently land these highly sought after species. Capt. Alan Zaremba is the instructor of the class. Not your
regular fishing seminar series each class is limited to 24 anglers, featuring hands-on instruction letting students interact and learn from some of the best anglers and captains sharing knowledge in their respective discipline. Pre-registration is required. The cost is $100 per class for IGFA members and $150 per class for non-members. The fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials and fishing equipment relevant to each topic. For more details go to the IGFA web site at www.igfa.org/schoolofsportfishing.asp or contact David Matagiese at 954-924-4247 or dmatagiese@igfa.org, or contact Veronica Woods at 954-924-4334 or reservations@igfa.org.

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October 25, 2008The 10th Annual IGFA International Fishing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla., USA This year’s celebration honors all 70 members and the newest five inductees of the IGFA International Fishing Hall of Fame. This year’s inductees include Henry Chee, Dr. Roy Dean, Jimmy Houston, Kay Rybovich and Karl Wickstrom. They were selected for the important contributions they have made to the sport of fishing through angling achievements, literature, the arts, science, education, invention, communication or administration of fishery resources. The evening includes a cocktail reception, silent auction, the induction ceremony for the 2008 class and dinner. Tickets are $200. For reservation information please contact Ms. Lesley Arico at 954-924-4222 or LArico@igfa.org

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November 8, 2008 Boaters Safety Course, IGFA Intl. Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla., USA.8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. This free all day course is taught by the Law Enforcement division of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and meets the mandatory boating safety education requirements for the State of Florida. It’s comprised of a six chapter review and a final exam. The class is limited to 16 people with advance registration. For more information and to register, please call Joanie Tomlin at the IGFA at 954-924-4312 or email her at JTomlin@igfa.org.

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November 10 – 13, 2008The Fifth World Recreational Fishing Conference, IGFA International Fishing Hall of Fame, Dania Beach, Fla., USA –Representatives from around the globe will be hosted by the IGFA at an international forum for the recreational fishing community. The conference will target the tackle industry, angling tourism and include representatives from non governmental organizations and fisheries science and management. Topics will include historical and recent trends in participation, emerging fisheries, recreational fisheries science and management, socioeconomics, and catch and release. For information on the conference or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.worldrecfish.org or contact IGFA Conservation Director Jason Schratwieser at 954-924-4320 or jschratwieser@igfa.org

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