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+--- Thread: IGFA's Observer Training Class in Newport Beach, Calif., May 15 (/showthread.php?tid=637156)
IGFA's Observer Training Class in Newport Beach, Calif., May 15 - FishNews - 01-16-2011
The Newport Dunes Marina Clubhouse on Newport Beach, Calif., is the site of the next IGFA Observer Training class (OTC) as the International Game Fish Association goes on the road with its popular instructional program Saturday, May 15, at 9 a.m.
Hosted by the Balboa Angling Club, the class instructs experienced anglers, boat captains and crew members as observers for fishing tournaments held across the globe. The Newport Dunes Marina Clubhouse is located at 101 N. Bayside Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660.<br />
"Over the years, billfish tournaments have transformed into big business enterprises," said IGFA Conservation Director Jason Schratwieser. "Many prestigious tournaments now have enormous calcuttas and purses as well as large numbers of participating anglers. With huge purses and egos on the line, concern often arises whether all participants are adhering to the letter of the rules. This causes turmoil for tournament directors and, at its worst, prevents tournaments from adopting release formats. An obvious solution is to have observers on boats to ensure a level playing field.<br />
But how do you know if observers have been properly trained and where do you go to find them? The answer is simple; IGFA.<br />
"The IGFA's Observer classes began as a conservation initiative to allow offshore billfish tournaments the option to go to a 100% release format with trained and experienced observers on board to verify catches and educate anglers about IGFA angling rules. With the decline of many billfish stocks, the importance of release formats in tournaments has increased. As release tournaments become more common and cash payouts increase, unbiased observers become vital in reporting rule infractions as well as for identifying billfish species."<br />
Schratwieser added observers can often benefit anglers by preventing inadvertent rule infractions before they even happen. Having observers that are trained to identify billfish species under frantic tournament conditions virtually eliminates the need to bring back dead fish to the dock for official scoring. Observers also raise the prestige level and credibility of tournaments while contributing to conservation efforts with the safe release of tournament billfish.<br />
The IGFA OTC covers topics such as species identification, IGFA saltwater fishing rules and tackle regulations, safety at sea and boating etiquette. Space is limited to 40 people. IGFA OTC applications are available online at http://www.igfa.org/PDF/COP_Application2008.pdf. Pre-registration is required and the $150 fee covers the cost of the training class, course materials, and a one-year membership in the IGFA. Please contact Schratwieser at 954-924-4320 or email: jschratwieser@igfa.org for additional information.