2008 Vol. 3

Mexico: Battle Over Sportfishing Paradise

Dreamin’ On! 100 Releases

TBF Youth Program Makes a Splash

. . . Fi s h Fo r e v e r 1 2 Welcome to Billfish, Team TBF The Billfish Foundation’s Ellen Peel President Sportfishing Conservation Magazine Guillermo Alvarez Conservation Director, Contents Mexico Peter Chaibongsai Science & Research Fe a t u r e s Fe a t u r e St o r y Specialist Deborah Cummings 8 Featured Artist: Tim Borski Me x i c o : Membership Director Battle Over Dr. C. Phillip Goodyear 9 Corporate Conservation Sportfishing Scientist Partner Profile: Rampage Paradise Pete Johnson Sportfishing Yachts To anglers worldwide, Communications Specialist Los Cabos, Mexico is Edythe Ledbetter 16 Recreational Boating and sportfishing paradise Financial Consultant Fishing Join Forces protected by law. To the Jackie Marsolais Graphic Designer local “fishing mafia” and 17 President Protects their inside man in high Herbert Nanne Sportfishing Access Conservation Director, office, Mexican laws are Central America made to be broken or Dr. Russell Nelson 18 Dreamin’ On at minimum overturned. Scientist Climactic 5th chapter of world The battle rages on as Jennifer Paul tour delivers storied blue TBF rallies key support Membership Consultant and documents what’s at marlin fishing with 100 releases! Julia Shafer stake if “paradise” dollars Development & Constituent are lost. Relations Specialist r o g r a m s Carmela Siegel P PAGE 10 Accounting Manager 4 Chair’s Letter Elliott Stark Tag & Release Specialist 6 Volunteer Profiles 17 Memorial 21 Fishing Destinations 24 Research Cover Art by Tim Borski 26 Advocacy 32 Education 34 Collage 2161 E. Commercial Blvd. Second Floor 36 On the Docks Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 42 Captain’s Corner 800-438-8247 www.billfish.org 3 TBF Trustees

Chair Chair's Message Joan Vernon

Vice Chair John Brownlee

Treasurer Dear TBF Friends, Rich J. Andrews It’s an honor for me to serve as the Chair of such a fine organization as The Billfish Foundation (TBF). I think you’ll find the depth and breadth of TBF’s work, captured in this magazine, Secretary demonstrates what this organization does best – “Conservation by Design”. Take a look at Fernando Aguilar the cover. It’s a beautiful piece of art. Study it and you’ll see an intricate, interlocking design depicted in bold, complementary colors.

As you peel back the cover of this magazine, you’ll see the parallels between the artist’s design John P. Abplanalp and TBF’s work – bold and impassioned with many moving parts that form an intricate Jose “Pepe” Anton, Jr. pattern of success. Success I might add, that’s working in your best interest. Luis L. Bacardi Take as an example, TBF’s work in Mexico to preserve the sportfishing paradise of Los Cabos. Francisco Rangel Castelazo TBF has been working in the region for many years. We’ve done the hard work of forging Gary J. Chouest strong effective partnerships and we’ve developed key contacts at the national level, who are Robert DeGabrielle now ordering the defiant fisheries director to act in the best interest of the fish. At the same time, TBF invested in a forward-thinking approach – an exhaustive socio-economic study Chris Fischer that documents the incredible $1 BILLION value of sportfishing to Mexico. Decision makers Edwin Hawn now know definitively what’s at stake. And their constituents will work even harder to prevent Brandon Hunt them from risking their economy, their livelihoods and their sportfishing heritage to appease Norm Isaacs commercial fisheries. (See feature story beginning on page 10.) Elaine “Lainey” Jones This is just one example. Flip through the magazine and you’ll find many more of TBF doing James F. Kitchell, Ph.D. the hard work, the necessary work for those of us who care about billfish and the future of Jay Meyer, M.D. sportfishing. TBF is battling strategically on the U.S. West Coast to prevent the opening of Mobile Big Game Fishing Club a new longline fishery. In the Atlantic, TBF is calling for a catch quota for eastern Atlantic bluefin tuna that conforms to levels recommended by scientists. Mark O’Brien Paxson Offield In short, TBF is fighting for the fish and for YOU! Orange Beach Billfish Classic Frank "Skip" Smith So if you want to ensure a vibrant sportfishing tradition that is more than a memory captured on canvas (or the cover of a magazine), here’s what I need you to do today. Turn to the center Scott Steele of this issue, remove the envelope, insert the most generous donation you possibly can afford Diana Udel and mail it to TBF right away or give online at www.Billfish.org. Ralph “Agie” Vicente Paul Walker TBF’s continued ability to win victories for billfish and for you, depend on each of us doing our part. I am absolutely convinced that TBF is the best investment you can make in this regard. So when you return your envelope, please consider giving at a level commensurate with Founding Chairman the mighty “granders” that we’re all dreamin’ of and fighting for! Winthrop P. Rockefeller 1948-2006 Joan Vernon President TBF Chair Correction Ellen M. Peel, J.D. LL.M. In the last issue of Billfish there was an error in the Mexico Socio-Economic Study article. The correct amount spent by angling tourists in the region, according to the study, is $633 million (USD). See the article on page 12 of this issue for further details. We regret this error.

4 Welcome Aboard,Elliott Stark!

he Billfish settling some unfinished and the evaluation of success and efficacy of Foundation is business with local their management. During this time, Elliott T pleased to welcome tarpon, snook, swordfish also gained exposure to offshore fishing, Elliott Stark to our Science and any other fish he can which has become an activity that takes up and Policy staff. Elliott brings trick into taking the bait. quite a bit of his money and free time. a solid background in marine science and policy to TBF While at the University Having spent the last year in Austin, Elliott having graduated from the of Miami, which he is excited about returning to South Florida Rosenstiel School of Marine also attended as an and working for The Billfish Foundation. and Atmospheric Science undergraduate, Elliott He joins Peter Chaibongsai in TBF’s at the University of Miami, worked on several Science and Policy Department. Elliott where he earned a Master’s projects of the Southeast handles the tag and release reports and Degree in Marine Affairs Florida Coral Reef release certificates. Elliott is available for and Policy. An avid fisherman, Elliott hails Initiative. As an undergraduate, he studied questions relating to the tagging program, from the Lone Star State where he spent Marine Affairs and Policy, with minors in marine education, as well as other science the summers of his childhood surf fishing Economics, Political Science and Business and policy-related inquiries. He will be glad and crabbing on the upper Texas coast. Administration. The primary focus of to speak with you and can be reached by Elliott also enjoys hunting, barbecues, and Elliott’s graduate internship was in analysis phone at 800-438-8247 ext. 101 or by email just about anything involving the outdoors. of the regulatory and legislative protections at [email protected]. When not in the office, Elliott can be found of Florida’s marine and coastal resources

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PO Box 480670 • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33348 (888)SAILFISH • (954) 784-8377 Fax (954) 784-8453 Volunteer Profiles TBF Top Volunteers TBF benefits from many great volunteers willing husband Tom, and together they caught and for entering Tag and Release data. She always to give of their time and expertise. In this issue released hundreds of marlin and sailfish. pushes for more detail from anglers’ cards we highlight four such individuals. They were a two-person team, so Carol or from follow-up phone calls. She wants learned most tasks needed to crew on a to make sure that she gets as much data fishing boat and, like Gail, is a strong TBF from a fishing team’s tag and release efforts, contender at tournaments. Their son, Jim, so scientists get the most benefit from the has had top fishing guidance and is following traditional tagging program. She encourages in his parent’s footsteps. He works part- all to print the data on their cards as legibly time at Custom Rod and Reel in Lighthouse as possible! Point, Florida, in addition to his EMT Jay Siegel, a retired bank investigator gives studies. He also has been a top competitor of his time and energy in TBF’s Youth Angler Release Carol Ott with son Jim assisting TBF in support Competitions over the years. of bookkeeping services Carol goes further in supporting and with a wide range arol Ott, of Boca Raton, Florida, TBF taking the lead on special of general office needs. Dr. Gail Kay of St. Petersburg, events’ needs and enlisting the Upon visiting TBF’s office, Florida, Jay Siegel, of Coconut help of her brother and sister. C one might catch Jay on a Creek, Florida and Israel Modesto Carol also assists Ellen in the ladder, assessing computer Sanchez of the Dominican Republic are all office whenever she can and problems, returning from tops in TBF’s books! is often a top bidder at TBF picking up office supplies or fundraising events, a gesture that Both Gail and Carol give of their time, copying stacks of items for is so important in keeping money and fishing skills to represent TBF the Finance Department. operations funded. in all-release billfish tournaments, fishing Jay Siegel He has great oversight from with TBF President Ellen Peel. Both of these the Finance Department, which is staffed Dr. Gail Kay grew up fishing with her volunteers are virtual TBF ambassadors by his wife, Carmela. Jay is an avid Florida dad. She fished for several years in the and recruiters, sharing their beliefs in the Marlins and Miami Dolphins fan, who enjoys Professional Tarpon Tournament Series in organization and encouraging all others exchanging perspectives with Deborah Boca Grande, but has since forgone tarpon at events to join. They encourage TBF Cummings, TBF’s on-staff sports expert. fishing to pursue her passion for billfish. In members to contact ellen_peel@billfish. When not at games or TBF, Jay and Carmela recent months, she represented TBF at org to join a TBF catch-and-release fishing head to New York every chance they get to tournaments stretching team. Carol and Gail run visit their young granddaughters. from Puerto Rico to TBF raffles, silent auctions, Costa Rica to Texas membership drives and Israel Modesto Sanchez was born in San and beyond. Now merchandise sales – all on sabbatical, Gail Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic and activities that take a lot of volunteers to help has been living in one of the city's fishing time and energy. The two TBF with whatever is communities for nearly 20 years. His sister- also volunteer for TBF at needed, including taking in-law, Mandy Karnauskas, a graduate boat shows and at TBF’s home mailings where student at the University of Miami, who has annual fundraising event – she often has her mom, been a manager in San Pedro’s Free Trade this year’s is on Halloween nieces and nephews Zone for 10 years, has demonstrated a high Night at Pier 66. organized folding, level of community involvement on the stuffing and sealing. She island, including a close relationship with Carol Ott began billfishing uses her pinpoint focus artisanal fishermen. Karnauskas and years ago with her late Gail Kay

6 TBF’s Chaibongsai sought Israel’s help in launching a tag recapture project in the TBF’s Summer Intern Dominican Republic, as an initial phase in From a young age, Chris Scott spent most TBF’s Caribbean and Gulf Conservation of his free time saltwater fishing off Long Campaign. Island, New York with family and friends. The more time he spent on the water, the Israel eagerly volunteered to become the more his wonder and interest grew. In short “point-man” for the collection of biological order, his hobby became an obsession. The data from recaptured billfish and tuna from combination of receiving a marine biology the artisanal fleets in the area. As a child, award in high school and some wonderful he learned to appreciate that his hometown Israel and his family irreplaceable memories fishing offshore depends on the ocean’s bounties for their of Islamorada and the Abaco’s, confirmed livelihood. He regularly speaks to fishermen to see what fish are being Chris’ passion and led him to study for a seen and taken. He reports his findings to Karnauskas and Chaibongsai degree in marine sciences. via email and phone. Israel understands the information is vital for TBF, since Chris is currently finishing up his last year a minimal amount of recapture information is retrieved from the area. at the University of Tampa to complete a double major in biology and marine science. Israel also volunteered recently to assist his community in raising funds His experiences on the water encouraged and initiating construction of an activity center. The center now includes him to learn about billfish and other highly a basketball court, spectator stands, a children's park, cafeteria, and migratory species. So while at the Ft. Lauderdale boat show community room where education events are held. He believes in TBF’s last year, Chris stopped by TBFs booth to learn more about the project because in the long term it will help to educate the fishermen and organization. After talking with Peter Chaibongsai from TBF’s community, as well as provide more opportunities for them in the future. Science and Policy Department, he inquired about the possibility of an internship with TBF. The idea took hold and TBF presented If you have time, energy and commitment and want to volunteer or intern Chris with a summer internship opportunity, which he gladly for TBF, contact Peter Chaibongsai at [email protected]. If you accepted. are not a TBF member, please join by returning the form in the middle of this publication today. Chris reports that the experience was a great chance for him to get involved with a prominent conservation organization that deals directly with the conservation and management of highly migratory species. Over the summer, he worked on various projects including Mark Ray Studio data entry for the Tag and Release Program and data analysis for TBF’s Annual Conservation Report. Chris assisted Peter in creating Marine Wildlife Art a booth for the International Coral Reef Symposium – an event in Ft. Lauderdale that TBF attended and sponsored to demonstrate the connectivity between billfish and coral reefs. Chris also Original Art • Giclee reproductions expanded TBF’s Tag and Release Program to the northeast United Tournament Designs

Commissions • Mural Custom Designs States by creating educational materials containing specific data from that area. Contact Info: Mark Ray: e-mail [email protected] 704-524-8474 Throughout the internship, Chris met and talked with scientists and associates, who work in different fields of marine science and recreational fishing. He made many good friends at TBF. Chris says he is grateful for the opportunity to work for TBF and hopes to continue his relationship with TBF and its staff, who work so hard to conserve billfish long into the future.

TBF extends sincere thanks to Chris for his hard work and invaluable contribution to strengthening our Tag and Release Program. We wish him continued success in his studies and pursuit of a great career in marine science.

7 7 Featured Artist Tim Borski

he beautiful cover art of this Billfish issue is the creation of Tim Borski from Islamorada in the Florida Keys. Best known for his exceptional saltwater fishing flies, Borski is also Tknown for his beautiful paintings. As captured in an article in Men’s Journal magazine in 2006, Tim is truly a “Keys character.” Born in Stevens Point, Wisconsin to humble beginnings, he learned to enjoy ice fishing before moving at age 33 to Miami and then on to the Florida Keys.

Once in the Keys, his artistic skills blossomed as he began duplicating on canvas what he held dear in his natural surroundings, especially when he was a caretaker on Craig Key. Tim first excelled with water colors and soon had a following, which included tournaments clamoring for his art to award as prizes or to auction to raise funds. It wasn’t long before he branched into oils and acrylics. Recently he was awarded first place in the acrylics division in the Purple Isles Art Guild show for a classic Borski painting – Mr. Snook – a detailed, 30 by 40 inch painting of a snook on a bright orange-red background. At this year’s prestigious Club Nautico de San Juan’s 55th International Billfish Tournament, Tim’s original marlin art was featured, generating a lot of excitement for its new bright and colorful style in billfish art. One painting was purchased by an angler from South Africa and the other by an angler from Mexico. Tim’s subjects include a wide variety of wildlife species, with a focus on birds and fish.

When not designing flies, painting or enjoying time with his sons Gus, age four, and Josef, age seven, Tim enjoys fishing. Last year he managed to somehow fit into his busy schedule a steelhead fishing trip back in Wisconsin and a ten day sail fishing trip in Mexico, along with regular trips into Florida Bay at home.

One lucky bidder will win the original painting of Tim’s on the cover of this issue of Billfish. Proceeds from the winning bid will further TBF’s education, advocacy and research programs.

Tim can be reached at [email protected] or (305) 852-9886.

8 Conservation Partner Profile

34 Rampage Express

he Billfish Foundation (TBF) is pleased to announce a new conservation partnership with Rampage Sport Fishing Yachts. An T industry leader in designing and building top-notch bluewater yachts, Rampage decided they wanted to become strong leaders in marine conservation as well, by joining TBF as a sponsor of our Tag & Release Program!

Headquartered in Oconto, Wisconsin, Rampage Sport Fishing Yachts is part of “Fishing has KCS International, Inc., which also includes sister company brought families Cruiser Yachts. Rampage is known for designing yachts that and friends combine comfort and convenience with speed, durability and together for performance-focused engineering. Building highly fishable decades, and express and convertible sportfishing yachts from 30 to 45 we are proud to feet in the Oconto facility, Rampage recently added a new 45 Rampage Convertible partner with TBF yacht to their line – the 34 Rampage Express. to help conserve Unveiled at the 2008 annual Rampage dealer meeting held in Sheboygan, Wisconsin this past July, the new billfish 34 Rampage Express with Volvo Penta IPS technology and sportfish mode was met with great acclaim. populations so that future Rampage dealers from around the world, in addition to fishing and yachting journalists, got their first generations can chance to sea trial this revolutionary addition to the Rampage family of yachts. “We’re very happy with enjoy this the praise the 34 received from our dealers and members of the media,” said Jim Viestenz, President of great sport,” KSC International, Inc. The 34 is proving to be outstanding in both performance and maneuverability, - Jim Viestenz with a revolutionary propulsion system that dramatically increases both power and efficiency. President of KSC

Rampage officials say they are happy to be working with a worthwhile organization like TBF and hope that their involvement will encourage others in the marine industry to become more involved as well. “Fishing has brought families and friends together for decades, and we are proud to partner with TBF to help conserve billfish populations so that future generations can enjoy this great sport,” said 41 Rampage Express Viestenz. TBF President Ellen Peel is pleased to have Rampage onboard as well, noting “We are pleased to see Rampage demonstrating its dedication and strong commitment to billfish conservation by assuming an active role as a new TBF Conservation Partner through TBF’s Tag & Release Program”.

For more information on Rampage Sport Fishing Yachts, please visit their website at www.rampageyachts.com

For more information on becoming a TBF Conservation Partner, please contact Julia at 954.938.0150 ext. 102 or [email protected].

9 M e x i c o : Fierce battle rages ov er sportfishing Paradise TBF Garners Support from Mexico City Leaders Heed Calls to Reel in Defiant Fisheries Chief BF has fought the regulations zones. Legal questions contained in Mexico’s about the commercial T purported shark management use of sailfish, marlins, plan Nom-029 for over a year. The dorado, and swordfish latest round of ongoing meetings within the zones have was held between government been resolved in favor representatives and the sportfishing of the fish. The legal communities of Los Cabos, La Paz, consensus in Mexico Guaymus and Mazatlan. Finally, City is that there is progress was made in persuading no legal basis under Secretary of SAGARPA Alberto Mexican federal law for Cárdenas Jiménez that the concerns CONAPESCA to allow about the CONAPESCA (Mexico’s a bycatch and sale of fisheries agency) head Ramón Corral Minerva Saenz, an advocate these species. The Marina Cabo San Lucas Ávila and the threat his Nom-029 for sportfishing fighting NOM-029. poses to Mexico’s traditional sportfishing On September 4th, a conservation zones are valid. For more Resolution (Dictamen • Permissible levels of than a year, Corral has ignored directives con Punto de Acuerdo) sponsored by fishing effort be defined from his superiors including the Secretary of Mexico Senator Luis Coppola and 12 others and annual precautionary SAGARPA Cárdenas, in an attempt to allow was introduced and passed by the Senate quotas be enacted for longlines and commercial harvest of billfish Natural Resources and Fisheries Committee targeted shark species. and dorado into the protected 50-mile zone (Comison de Medio Ambiente, Recursos along Mexico’s coastlines. During the August Naturales y Pesca). Within days the remarkably powerful meeting in La Paz, Cárdenas pledged to Corral issued new measures that directly uphold protection of sportfishing industry The Resolution calls for SAGARPA to contradicted the Senate’s Resolution (see and marine resources afforded by the immediately revise the Nom-029 to assure: side bar on facing page). It is in this tense Mexico’s sportfishing conservation zone • Commercial harvest or climate, that TBF provided the strongest sale of the sportfish argument yet for stopping Corral and species is avoided in all developing fisheries policies that preserve directed shark fisheries; sportfishing. TBF’s newly released socio- • Spawning and nursery economic study, which has been a year in area closures be put in place to actually the making, documents that sportfishing protect shark stocks; is worth more than $1 BILLION to • A data collection Mexico! (See page 12 for details.) “These program be initiated results have raised the ante in persuading to allow for scientific government decision makers to take a new assessments of shark look at how Mexico is using its marine populations; and resources,” said TBF President Ellen Peel. Community-based enforcement efforts in Baja California Sur, Mexico, supported by 10 M e x i c o : Fierce battle rages ov er sportfishing Paradise “Fishing Mafia” Nabbed in the Act Corral Rebels TBF’s Enforcement Support Aids the Catch Action Creates Billfish Market

Community-based enforcement efforts in government. The report said that this illegal As this issue goes to press, we learned that Baja California Sur, Mexico, supported by fishing has been happening for years. The Mexico’s head of fisheries, Ramon Corral, The Billfish Foundation (TBF) through the news report also said the CONAPESCA authorized a bycatch allowance that would Center for Marine Protection and funded boarding party received a call from senior give longliners fishing in Mexico’s 24-year by the recreational fishing license fees paid officials in Mexico City, and opted to old sportfishing conservation zones the to FONMAR, have resulted in three recent withdraw from the arrest site, leaving the ability to retain and sell sailfish, marlins and seizures of vessels carrying multi-tons of responsibility for the inspection with citizen dorado (dolphinfish). Effective September illegally harvested dorado (also known as observers from FONMAR. The news 13, he authorized medium and large vessels mahi mahi or dolphinfish). reporter said the FONMAR personnel were fishing north of 20 degrees north latitude not intimidated by the threats of the crew (slightly north of Manzanillo) to take as a On August 13, a commercial vessel from from the seized boat. proportion of the landed catch, 11% sailfish, Mazatlan was seized in waters north 4% striped and blue marlin, 7% swordfish of Loreto with 1,300 kilos (nearly 1.5 Mexican Senator Luis Alberto Coppola and 4% dorado. The same class vessels tons) of dorado, a species reserved for Joffroy issued an ultimatum in a press fishing south of 20 degrees were authorized sportfishing under bag limits in the 50-mile release on September 18 stating: “All those who engage in poaching and who to take 11% sailfish, 9% striped marlin, 1% conservation zones surrounding Mexico’s blue marlin, 7% swordfish and 4% dorado. irresponsibly act as predators of our seas, coasts. Local FONMAR agents said the Small pangas are authorized to land 15% even in collusion with corrupt authorities, crew was filleting the illegal fish at sea. sailfish and 10% dorado. This action will shall be called to account as they are create the first open market for these species On September 5, two boats owned intercepted”. TBF President Ellen Peel in Mexico in 24 years. by commercial longline kingpin Henry remarked, “This is yet another example Collard were seized and charged with of Corral’s mismanagement of Mexico’s “TBF and our Mexican partners do not illegally harvesting dorado while using a valuable marine resources.” believe Conapesca (Mexico’s fishery agency) shark permit in Magdelena Bay. The two has the legal authority to provide these vessels were carrying 14 tons of dorado allowances. They are in direct contradiction along with several tons of shark. Collard, to Mexico’s federal Ley de Pesca (fish law), a prominent representative of commercial and we will take whatever action we can fishing interests, was reported to have to repeal them,” said TBF’s Dr. Russell threatened fisheries enforcement agents Nelson. that he “is a personal friend of Ramon TBF President Ellen Peel added, “We find Corral (Mexico’s fisheries chief) and you it amazing Corral - a single individual - can’t do this to me!” can defy the Mexican Congress and the will of the people and put at risk nearly News reports in the local La Paz newspaper $650 million spent by sportfishermen El Sudcaliforniano were critical of the illicit in Baja California Sur.” TBF will press activities described as “the fishing mafia” legal action to prevent Corral from and commercial “pirates” who often implementing his reckless policies. receive subsidies from the Mexican federal Photo courtesy El Sudcaliforniano 11 11 Sportfishing Injects $1 Billion into Mexican Economy TBF Provides Crucial Documented Evidence

he final socio-economic report cascading economic effects in the local from the TBF-funded project economy, creating: T conducted by Southwick and • 24,426 jobs, Associates, Nelson Resources Consulting, • $ 245.5 million (USD) in local and federal tax revenues, and • $1.125 billion (USD) in total economic activity.

A good way to view these impacts is to consider that, if everybody who fished in Los Cabos did not visit in 2007, the regional economy would have been $1.125 billion smaller, with 24,426 fewer jobs, and government coffers would have been poorer by $245.5 million. Visitors who fish in Los Cabos are estimated to provide 24.1 percent of the total dollars injected into the Los Cabos economy What determined your by tourism. A job is supported for every fishing destination? $18,156 in retail sales. Every dollar spent by anglers generated $1.78 in economic Cost of travel...... 8% Rob Southwick and Russell Nelson led effort to activity in the Los Cabos region. Every produce socio-economic study. I have friends there or other visiting angler generated $721.99 in local reasons to travel there...... 13% Inc. and Firmus Consulting of Mexico City and federal tax revenues. I would feel more comfortable was released in August with its results and more secure there...... 5% reverberating through Mexico. In 2007, Additional benefits accrued include: Less hassle to get and fish there...... 16% an estimated 354,013 people, most Los Cabos angler expenditures added My preferred destination has international visitors, fished in Los Cabos. $145 million (USD) to Mexico’s Gross stronger conservation laws and practices...... 2% While there, they spent an estimated $633.6 Domestic Product; 10,469 additional Other...... 19% million dollars for lodging, charter boats, jobs created elsewhere in Mexico; and food, transportation, tackle, fuel and more. $75 million (USD) in taxes added to The fishing is better there...... 37% These expenditures started a series of the federal coffers.

12 Species of interest to % % Success Los Cabos Anglers Targeted Caught Rate Marlin 90% 74% 82% Sailfish 53% 27% 51% Dorado, Mahi-Mahi, Dolphin Fish 95% 78% 82% Tuna 87% 65% 76% Wahoo 47% 14% 30% Sierra Mackerel 11% 10% 84% Roosterfish 37% 19% 51% Yellowtail 16% 8% 8% Bottomfish 15% 13% 48% Robalo, Snook 0.5% 0.3% 91% Do not know 0.5% 0.3% n/a Over two thousand respondents to angler for sportfishing None caught n/a 1.3% n/a surveys, including those who had fished tourism dollars. Los Cabos,Other U.S. anglersLocations who had Fished never by Los Currently, anglers fished the area andCabos Los Cabos Anglers businesses, are %reporting a The 106-page socio-economic report has provided a first-time Otherlook at Mexicothe ideas Locations and slightly65% lower rate of satisfaction with their been distributed to industry, state and Costa Rica 33% attitudes of those visiting the area and its visits to Los Cabos compared to general federal government and academic interests Guatemala 7% hotel and timeshare guests. If Mexico in Mexico. Presentations on the results potential untapped market. Eighty-eightCaribbean 41% percent of internationalCentral anglers America who fished Locations desires19% to maintain or maximize the wealth will be given to the national Chamber in Cabo said they would be less Southlikely to America provided9% by sportfishing tourism, intelligent of Commerce in Mexico City. “This is return if they knew commercial harvest Europe decisions7% regarding conservation-based the information we have been asked for of billfish increased. Nearly 80% said they Asia fisheries6% managementSpecies will ofbe interestnecessary. to by% the government% overSuccess and over,” said Other Pacific Locations 43% Los Cabos Anglers Targeted Caught Rate would be more likely to return to fish if Communicating these policies and the Minerva Saenz, “now TBF has given us the Other - not listed 15% Marlin 90% 74% 82% quality of the region’s fisheries to U.S. answers we need to increase support for catch-and-release fishing was required for None 6% Sailfish 53% 27% 51% conservation and sportfishing tourism.” The billfish. While nearly 83% of the anglers, anglers is criticalDorado, to continued Mahi-Mahi, or increased complete report in English and Spanish with who targeted marlin on their trip to Los sportfishing tourismDolphin activity. Fish This report 95% 78% 82% all survey results is available online Cabos, were successful in catching at least provides importantTuna information needed to 87% 65% 76% at: www.billfish.org. one of the marlin species available, only make such informedWahoo decisions in developing 47% 14% 30% 63% of these angling visitors said that they fisheries policy forSierra Mexico’s Mackerel future. 11% 10% 84% Roosterfish 37% 19% 51% would choose to return to Los Cabos for Land’s End Arch located in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Yellowtail 16% 8% 8% another fishing trip. This reflects the high Bottomfish 15% 13% 48% demand for quality fishing experiences and Robalo, Snook 0.5% 0.3% 91% the strong competition internationally Do not know 0.5% 0.3% n/a None caught n/a 1.3% n/a

Other Locations Fished by Los Cabos Anglers % Other Mexico Locations 65% Costa Rica 33% Guatemala 7% Caribbean 41% Central America Locations 19% South America 9% Europe 7% Asia 6% Other Pacific Locations 43% Other - not listed 15% None 6%

13

Left to right: Captain Bart Miller, TBF President Ellen Peel and Jack Tullius, President of Black Bart International.

Black Bart Outfits TBF’s President A Dangerously Perfect Combination . . . A Black Bart Blue Water Pro 20 lb classic rod . . . an Accurate B2-655W reel . . . and Peel.

TBF supports Captain Bart Miller’s induction into the IGFA Hall of Fame!

Fo r p r o d u c t i n f o r m a t i o n c o n t a c t : (561) 842-4550 o r (866) 289-7050 o r v i s i t w w w .blackbartlures .c o m Partners in conservation New United Force in D.C.

75 years 1933 - 2008 Recreational Fishing and Boating Industries Join Forces

n July, TBF joined the Center PAC strives shared with those attending ICAST press Coastal Conservation to elect conservation- conference that “It is time these two IAssociation minded individuals to the important industries joined forces to (CCA), the American U.S. Senate and House protect the ocean’s natural resources, and Sportfishing Association of Representatives, thus, their customer-base.” She added, (ASA), the National who can be brought “Internationally other nations that benefit Marine Manufacturers up to speed on fishing from the manufacture and sale of items Association (NMMA) and and boating issues. to the recreational fishing and boating the International Game The Center PAC will industries must wake up and become aware Fish Association (IGFA) then work with elected of the direct dependence their economic at the International Jeff Angers, the Center’s president, announces the officials in Congress to bottom line has to good conservation . . . formation of the new organization dedicated to Convention of Allied serving the recreational and boating industries. improve the acceptance international negotiations need delegates Sportfishing Trades and understanding of the representing the recreational industries (ICAST) show in Las Vegas. These leading two industries and their mutual conservation and the tourism industry.” She explained recreational fishing and boating organizations interests, upon which recreational boating it should no longer be acceptable to gathered to announce the formation and fishing industries depend. have government and commercial fishing of a new alliance organization, which interests negotiating away the last of the they comprise - the Center for Coastal Center PAC contributions have already fish for consumption without regard for Conservation, (the Center) – to represent been made to 30 candidates in this year’s conservation and other non-consumptive their mutual interest in Washington, elections for the House and Senate, donating industries dependent upon the same ocean D.C. These two recreational industries equally to Democratic and Republican resources. The U.S. is the only nation recognized their dependency on successful candidates. No contributions are going to that includes recreational fishing and conservation of fish species and access to candidates for the Office of President. conservation delegates within its delegations marine waters as essential to attracting to international fisheries management and keeping customers. The Center will Jeff Angers, organizations. target politicians in D.C. with one voice. President of Conservation and political access are the Center, TBF, CCA, ASA, and NMMA keystone tenets to the Center’s philosophy. transferred from have maintained an effective CCA-Louisiana, presence on Capitol Hill for This new force, established under Section where he had a years, educating decision 501 (c) (4) of the tax code allows for successful 15-year makers on fishing and marine- direct action to influence elective politics, career leading related issues and contributing through the formation of a Political Action efforts that expertise in fisheries law, Committee (PAC). The Center PAC will included winning science, economics and function to provide direct political activity the ban on gill nets regulations. in support of conservation as it relates to in state waters and responsible recreational fishing and boating. establishing redfish Creation of the Center will Donations to the “Center PAC” are NOT as a game fish. provide an effective political tax-deductible. tool for the sportfishing sector. TBF President Representatives from the non-profit entities Ellen Peel, who can serve on the Center Board as each of serves on the TBF President Ellen Peel presents during the July press conference along with Center the five groups listed above is doing. The Center’s Board, Board Chair Jack Lawton.

16 An Angler We Will Miss In Loving Memory of Edison Chouest

dison Chouest, known to his decades, shipbuilding yards were built by ECO in friends as “Mr. Edison,” died at Houma, Louisiana, Gulfport, Mississippi and E the age of 91 on October 3, 2008. Navegantes, Brazil. Mr. Edison was the family patriarch, who Today, ECO is the most technologically advanced and enjoyed fishing on his belovedC’est si Bon - fastest-growing offshore vessel service company in the a 1980, 55-foot Hatteras. He was a long term world. In-house design and building capabilities have member of the New Orleans Big Game made ECO unique in the offshore boat service industry. Fishing Club. His passion for billfishing was The company also owns and operates the largest instilled in his sons and grandchildren, who independently owned fleet of seismic and research can be found fishing on theFreedom or Patriot vessels in the world. or at their custom boatyard in Stuart - American Custom Yachts. Mr. Chouest’s decision to start a new business back in 1960 has made a difference in the lives of many people, most notably those Forty-eight years ago, Mr. Chouest owned one vessel – a shrimp of his children and grandchildren. Mr. Chouest is survived by his trawler – and operated a small commercial fishing business out of three sons Edison Chouest Jr., Gary Chouest and Laney Chouest, his native Galliano, Louisiana. While plying the Gulf waters and who learned their love of being on the water from their dad. Gary seeing oil drilling platforms spring up, an idea was born. Mr. Chouest is the current chief executive of Edison Chouest Offshore Chouest soon bought a 65-foot utility vessel to service a petroleum and serves on TBF’s Board of Trustees. The entire Chouest family rig in the Gulf and founded Edison Chouest Offshore. brings a new level of commitment, generosity and enthusiasm for The company grew and expanded throughout the 1960’s by buying billfish conservation and sportfishing to TBF’s community. and refurbishing old vessels. In 1974, the company built North We at TBF wish to express deep gratitude for the life Edison Chouest American Shipbuilding in Larose, Louisiana. Over the next three led and send our heartfelt condolences to his family upon their loss.

Sportfishing Access Protected Ne w Un i t e d Fo r c e Ge t s Re s u l t s f r o m p r e s i d e n t

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Through the hard work or management areas or activities under any of the new Center for Coastal Conservation Federal authority, consistent with applicable law. (Center) of which TBF is a major proponent, President George W. Bush signed an “It’s all very significant,” said Ellen Peel who also amendment to an earlier Executive Order giving serves on the board of the Center, “as is the the nation’s recreational anglers and boaters Administration’s on-going work on the Ocean access to more federal lands and waters. Action Plan, which relates to conservation and the nation’s offshore sportsmen. The Plan, On September 27, while announcing National which promotes an ethic of responsible use and Hunting and Fishing Day to be on November preservation of our oceans and coastal resources, 1, President Bush said, “My Administration has is working to stop over-fishing in America by 2011, created, protected, and restored millions of acres of wetlands. Through especially by foreign commercial interests, and through the Magnuson my Ocean Action Plan, we are protecting fish populations and marine Stevens Act, which enacted a 200-mile jurisdiction. Currently, two- habitat. I was pleased to amend Executive Order 12962 to recognize thirds of federal waters – about 2.3 million square nautical miles – are the value of recreational fishing as a sustainable activity in Federal off-limits to harmful bottom-trawling and dredging.” waters”. “Today’s anglers who fish for billfish are among the most conservation- minded citizens,” said Peel, “and hopefully the recent actions by the TBF President Ellen Peel said the amendment to the Executive government will help to re-nourish an ailing marine economy.” Order signed by President Bill Clinton on June 7, 1995, ensures that recreational fishing shall be managed as a sustainable activity in national For details about the new Center for Coastal Conservation and TBF’s role in wildlife refuges, national parks, national monuments, national marine its formation, see the article on facing page. If you would like to support the sanctuaries, marine protected areas, or any other relevant conservation Center, contact Ellen Peel at (800) 438-8247, ext. 108.

17 Dreams of Great Blue Marlin Fishing Come True Aboard the “DREAMIN’ ON”

hree Chairman’s Club Members of down-home feeling of the dream. The final prove extremely valuable later in realizing The Billfish Foundation – brothers member of the crew was selected based the “dream”. T Steve, Dave and Warren Keinath on two important criteria: (1) convincing of St. Louis, Missouri – began their world owners and crew he was a “Lucky Charm” The Captain and mate of the Dreamin’ On fishing tour looking for blue marlin in 2003. and (2) speaking fluent "Southern." Colorful soon began and successfully completed a They just concluded their 5th year in 2008 – Lee Stevens, one of the two original massive number of tasks readying boat, a climactic chapter that provided the storied founders of Marlin Magazine, scored on fishing gear and supplies for the eight-month blue marlin fishing for which they had long both counts and received dreamed. On a quest for the world’s best the last spot. marlin fishing, the brothers’ “big blue fishing Marlin are highly migratory in nature and so are anglers and their big boats. What began as “dock talk” in Panama, with Kumas Dadlani of Lanzarotte in the Canary Islands telling of multiple blue marlin catches out of Sao Vincente, grew into an idea that bloomed with additional information from "Kiwi Mate" Marty All aboard the “Dreamin’ On Bates, while in Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Marty shared stories of a journey. The Captain also finalized the machine” was aptly named the Dreamin’ wonderful blue marlin fishery out of the Port complex logistics, including transportation On - a 78’ Garlington, out of beautiful Ono of Mindelo. It was likely at that point the and coordination of placing the Keinath Island in LA (Lower Alabama). With this destination for the fifth year of the Dreamin’ brothers and a sister into time slots during drop-dead gorgeous boat, out of an idyllic On world fishing tour was identified. The which each could be transported for a Southern setting, entered Captain Randy information on where to fish, who to contact comfortable, productive stay on board. With Hodgekiss and Mate Lincoln Funk with and a myriad of other helpful tips from busy schedules, this took as much planning their unmistakable accents to round out the kindred spirits, Kumas and Marty, would as did where to fuel and at which marina

18 to stay. The big day arrived in the spring team left brother Steve and his team a new huge wake, and sticking her bill in the air, of 2008 when Dreamin’ On was top loaded challenge: not only to try to beat Warren’s windshield-washing and pulled the hook. aboard a ship and transported from Fort 57 blue marlin releases, but to take the boat The voices of all on board raised three or Lauderdale to Tenerife, Canary Islands. Mate to 100 blue marlin releases in 31 days. The four octaves as each excitedly recounted Lincoln chose to stay on board the ship and brothers all seem to live the boat’s motto - what they had just witnessed. This blue accompany the Garlington during the 10-day “You gotta keep chase'n the dream if your was a definite “grander” by all accounts on trip to check her and her freezers several gonna be Dreamin’ On”. board, the fourth seen during the previous times a day. 30 days; three hooked with anglers releasing Challenge: 100 Releases one and the fish releasing two. Captain Randy met the boat at Tenerife, Steve and his team took on the challenge fueled up and with Lincoln took off on and the next 12 days became a blur of blue Steve’s team was still falling short of meeting the 850-mile ocean trip to Sao Vincente, marlin jumps, anglers pumping and winding Warren’s challenge of 100 releases for the Cape Verde. The voyage went smoothly as fast and as hard as possible, the boat boat. Stuck at 96. Where was Lee’s luck? running through four to six feet seas for backing down at eight knots with waterfalls three days and nights. Randy pulled the of ocean filling the cockpit, wiring and Photos courtesy of Lee Stevens

boat into the newly constructed Mindelo tagging and "high-fives" all around. On May Billfish Dance Marina and believe it or not, the Dreamin’ 30th, (Lincoln’s 24th Birthday) the team They had to make something happen. On was to be berthed next to Kumar’s 74’ reached 96 releases, only four more to go to Lincoln contributed his infamous 'Billfish Viking, Lani. The sight of the crew, who in meet Warren’s challenge. The plot seemed Dance' across the back of the cockpit and Mexico helped plant the seed for this dream to thicken for the men as they went zero for Lucky Lee air-guitared an International tour, was taken as a good omen. Shortly three even though two fish seemed hooked 130 reel to Bruce Springsteen's "Pay Me thereafter, that “Lucky Charm” Lee Stevens up but got away. Then huge schools of flying the Money Down," as Bob mimed the arrived to join the dream team. fish showered all around the Dreamin’ On, so lyrics. Captain Randy waved his cap in the many that when they landed it looked like a air challenging the marlin to strike. Still no THE BITE IS ON! rain squall. Two of the brothers arrived on board, each with a team to challenge one another in “Granders” Hooked some friendly competition. Team Warren Suddenly a giant marlin crashed the right consisted of Warren and his long-time long-flat (a blue and white large ‘Real Tight’ friends Tommy Goodman, Mark Madden Soft Head). Steve was hooked up to what and Lou Koch. Team Steve consisted of Lee describes as the biggest fish he had Steve and friend Bob Struwe. Team Warren’s ever seen ripping off 200 to 250 yards of primary members released 35 blue marlin 130-pound line with 35 pounds of drag. The and their guests released 22 for a total of big lady made a huge splash, a half jump, 57 blue marlin releases! Feeling great about then she turned away from the boat with their accomplishments, Warren and his at least three feet of tail showing, kicking a Steve Keinath, Lincoln Funk and Bob Struwe celebrate 100 marlin releases. 19 bites. Steve remarked, “I think we scared the transom door and said "Let's go fish'n home in September. The total number them away.” And then, the long rigger was boys!" He then worked the hook out of the of blue marlin released over the entire knocked out of the clip. “Hooked up!” was marlin's jaw as Lucky Charm Lee held on 8-month trip was 124. yelled. The fish was caught and gone in no to his legs to keep him from being yanked time; now at 97. As Tom Petty’s “Don’t underwater. At 99 everyone on board was Another Dream Tour? Back Down” was playing, Eddie Money ‘high on life’ anticipating meeting Warren’s Wonder where the next segment of the dream seemed to have inspired the next catch and challenge of 100. Then “bingo,” fish on! will pick up? TBF hears talk about the south release of a very angry blue of about 250 Bob fought the 300 pounder to the boat – Pacific! While in the big region, TBF suggests pounds. Steve tagged the fish, which raised challenge met! investigating Phuket, Thailand, an area where the dickens at the boat as Lincoln and Steve a lot of very large marlin are being tagged held on to its bill for dear life as the hook Celebration On! and released. (See page 24.) Stay tuned for was removed. Just two more to go. Back at the dock, the party began with a possible future dream tour update! In the all the offshore anglers gathering on the interim, we can all keep dreamin’ on. Another 500 pounder was hooked, but the Dreamin’ On and toasting the success of hook pulled – still at 98. Then BAM! "Left its expedition. The Dreamin’ On ended the TBF appreciates the Keinath brothers setting rigger, she’s on," someone yelled. Steve fishing dream in Cape Verde with 118 blue a great example by being TBF Chairman’s Club deftly brought the 600 pounder to the boat marlin released in 31 days including 50 Members, supporting tagging and release of as Lincoln wired and Bob tagged. With marlin tagged! What a dream come true! billfish and their overall support of TBF’s work much difficulty and a lot of MOXIE, Lincoln worldwide to improve billfish conservation, jumped into the water to untangle the Brother number three, David, joined the and thus, fishing opportunities for today’s and line caught on a piece of broken off marlin dream, along with Steve’s son, Ian, in future generations. bill stuck in the transom, he slid through Madeira before the Dreamin’ On headed

Lucky Lee – A Founder of Ma r l i n Ma g a z i n e Recounting the Dream In recalling the month and a half on the Dreamin’ On, Lee Stevens says he has asked himself many times whether Cape Verde was the hottest blue marlin fishery he had ever fished? He says his answer is an unequivocal, “YES!” And that’s after having fished Kona, Venezuela, Panama and St. Thomas. If you want a lot of shots at blue marlin with fish ranging from 250 lbs. to 1250 lbs. and a chance to catch several every fishing day, the Lucky Charm says Mindelo, Sao Vincente, Cape Verde Islands is the place to be. He offers his help finding good boats and fishing teams in Cape Verde for those who send him an email at: [email protected].

20

fishing destinations

Golfito: A Beautiful Setting for Great Sportfishing

Tropical Studies and easy access to some This is the first in a new series of articles of the world’s most unique and biologically highlighting small communities of interest diverse protected natural areas, such as to traveling anglers. Corcovado National Park and the Golfito Wildlife Reserve. The area also offers olfito is located at the edge of a excellent beaches and tropical rainforests, beautiful tropical rainforest and with one historic marina, Banana Bay, and Gon the shores of the grand Golfo another on the way. Facilities for supporting Dulce in southern Costa Rica. The town sits your vessel are excellent. Several lodges next to this natural, deep draft gulf offering nearby offer a variety of inshore and offshore excellent protection from the swells of the International light tackle stars Stacey Parkerson and fishing opportunities. World class big game Pacific Ocean. Just north of Panama, Golfito Enrico Capozzi fish Golfito every year. fishing for sailfish and marlin has been the is an official point of entry into and exit from country. Additionally, it has a hospital, seven- main draw at Golfito and nearby Puerto Costa Rica. Cruising yachts find a safe haven day-a-week access to branch offices of the Jiminez for two decades. Often overlooked, national bank, and several fine restaurants.

Access by almost all modes of transportation is a breeze! Golfito is served by two major commuter airlines with several regularly scheduled flights daily to San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city. Flying time is about 45 minutes.

Golfito boasts first-rate surfing Southern Costa Rica offers excellent in this beautiful location, and often extend ecotourism activities including a major their visits to enjoy the local culture, food research facility of the Organization for the rainy season (May through October) and excellent sportfishing. can offer spectacular marlin fishing. Other popular activities include first-rate surfing, The Golfito area has a population of horseback riding, spelunking, sportfishing, approximately 3,000 people, and was at one and kayaking. point in history a true “Banana Republic”. Up until 1985, Golfito served as the area Bruce Blevins, owner of Banana Bay Marina, headquarters for the United Fruit Company sums his adopted town up this way: “This is and its deepwater port saw the export of an older and slower Costa Rica … the kind millions of pounds of bananas annually. The of place that lets you lay back and enjoy a town derives its architecture and culture slow pace, real wild jungle and good fishing from that 50-year association and it retains with an ambience unchanged in 30 years.” much of that rich flavor further enhanced by inhabitants from many countries and We at TBF have enjoyed a number of cultures. productive visits to Golfito and appreciate Access to most goods and services such as Banana Bay Marina’s support of our work provisions, repair parts, and travel services through donations to our auctions. We is readily available. Golfito has a large Duty recommend you put Golfito on your wish list Free market with the lowest prices in the of fishing destinations.

21 Join TBF or Renew Your Support Membership Levels and Benefits

Sailfish - $25 • Unlimited free release certificates Join or renew at the • Official Membership Card and Chairman’s Club level Decal and join a core group of leading members. • Full-color issues of Billfish • FREE TBF Membership T-Shirt Chairman’s Club - $1,000 “Going Global for Billfish” All of the above, plus: • Beautiful signed and numbered print of “Conservation Escalation” with hand-painted remarque Striped Marlin - $75 • Insider reports from the Chairman All of the above, plus: • Special invitations to exclusive TBF events • License Plate featuring • Chairman’s Club Flag for your boat or home TBF Logo • Chairman’s Club hat

White Marlin - $125 Legacy - $10,000 and above All of the above, plus: Lifetime Chairman’s Club Level Membership • TBF Membership Hat Swordfish - $250 All of the above, plus: • Exclusive signed and numbered Mark Ray print Blue Marlin - $500 All of the above, plus: • Set of 5 tags with nylon tag bag • Three complimentary gift memberships • Complimentary tickets to Fort Lauderdale & 2008 TBF Membership Print “Conservation Escalation” by Mark Ray Miami International Boat Shows TBF Corporate Memberships at the $1,000, $2,500 and $5,000 levels Use this envelope and return it are a great way to support billfish conservation and promote your with your membership business. To learn more, contact [email protected] payment today! or 954-938-0150 x102. M Membership Application I want to support billfish conservation as a TBF member. I have enclosed my membership payment in the following amount: $25 $75 $125 $250 $500 $1,000  $2,500  $5,000  $10,000 Other $______

Name______Address______City______State______Zip______Country______Phone______Fax______Email______Payment Method:  Visa  MasterCard  American Express  Discover  Check Account #:______Exp. Date ______Name on Account______Signature______

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Type of Contribution: Please fill out and return with your  New  Renewal  Gift** contribution in the envelope provided to: ** Please provide the name and address of gift giver and recipient separately if you are giving a gift membership. The Billfish Foundation PO Box 628259 • Orlando, FL 32862-9941 Membership donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. 800-438-8247 ext. 106 www.billfish.org For questions concerning your order, call 800-438-8247 x 106, or email [email protected] TBF Apparel TBF apparel makes great holiday gifts for your favorite angler!

New item! Comfortable and stylish Devon & Jones button down camp shirt .

New item! Ladies Outer Banks Polo, in fine, soft Egyptian cotton with no curl collar and 6-button placket.

Colorful billfish design featuring international flags, 100% preshrunk cotton, comes in long and short sleeved—short sleeved style available in youth sizes. New item! Sharp looking youth polo in 100% cotton. Use this envelope and return it with your membership payment today! TBF’s signature lightweight jacket. M Water resistant cotton poplin with contrasting collar and cuffs. Distinctive TBF logo on the back.

Order by December 15 for holiday delivery! Shop the Navy hoodie features TBF logo on left front chest. TBF hoodie is soft and comfortable with muff pockets, billfish grommets and matching drawstring. Also in kids sizes! store at: www.Billfish.org

To insure arrival of your gift prior to Dec 25th, orders using ground shipping need to be placed by December 15th, overnight shipping by Dec. 22nd.

For questions concerning your order, call 800-438-8247 x 106, or email [email protected] 23 Research

Dominican Republic: Tagging Recapture Update

BF’s Peter Chaibongsai and with CODOPESCA (Consejo Dominicano of us to put it on the map as an up-and- marine science PhD candidate de Pesca y Acuicultura) Technical Director coming hot fishing spot. This is a place TMandy Karnauskas traveled to San Jeannette Mateo to update her on the where people could come enjoy a holiday in Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic progress of the San Pedro project. Southeast Asia and catch billfish at the same in July to monitor the progress of TBF’s Ms. Mateo expressed her enthusiastic time. The pristine waters around the island recapture project. Several months earlier, support and encouraged the fisheries have over the years given me some great local fishermen, government officials and data collector of the southeast region to action with the “poor man’s champagne”- a non-profit organization joined TBF in a get engaged with TBF. TBF will continue sailfish. Now with all of our crews tagging, it collaborative project to help gather critical pursuing opportunities to encourage tagging has made them feel they are part of a bigger billfish data. Fishermen agreed to help billfish and reporting recapture data with conservation ideal that is ultimately sustaining record any billfish tags they encounter, other Dominican communities as well as their jobs because “no fish equals no job.” if TBF would assist with safety-at-sea Club Nautico de Santo Domingo. During the monsoon period, (May until equipment. Dr. David Die, an international TBF’s Caribbean and Gulf Conservation October) many sailfish can be found off the expert on pelagic fishes joined TBF for the Campaign focuses on building a network islands of Rachai Yai and Racha Noi. The July meetings. of contacts to assist in billfish conservation, fish normally bite in the afternoon because After assessing needs for improved onboard beginning in the Dominican Republic and they eat in the morning here. We typically safety devices with local contact Modesto then throughout the two large marine troll with panama-rigged belly strips and Sanchez Lopez and a small group of ecosystems. Anyone with questions is teasers or live bait (my own preference). fishermen, TBF arranged for the purchase encouraged to contact Peter Chaibongsai at Multiple hook ups and the sight of sailfish of equipment. Local fishermen received [email protected] jumping very close to islands occur often two radios, a long distance voice-operated or 954-938-0150 x107. and are great to witness. horn and a battery-operated strobe light. Although the hand-held radios only have a Thailand: Presently, the fishing has been much slower range of several nautical miles, they provide than previous years. I feel it is similar to a a critical mechanism to communicate with Tagging few years back, when the billfish arrived other boats especially when in distress. much later and stayed all the way through The following day, Mandy and David met Partner February. Even wahoo arrived late, as the ocean temperature seemed to be Report slightly warmer. Nevertheless, we have Report submitted by John Pierce. stood by anxiously waiting to plant some Being asked to become an official TBF more tags in billfish. Although not widely Tagging Partner was an honor for us here (Thailand continues next page) at Wahoo Big Game Fishing Thailand. Years ago, I was lucky enough to experience tagging billfish with Julian Pepperell in Australia. When TBF asked if I could start gathering billfish data by tagging in Southeast Asia, I jumped at the chance. For years, I had been trying to implement a release policy with the local crews and felt that with just a little encouragement, I could achieve this and encourage the release of all billfish.

Phuket, situated in the Andaman Sea, has Local fishermen receiving boating safety equipment.(top photo) Domingo Rafael Wilkes, David Wilkes, Johany for a long time been known as a holiday Madrigal, Alfio Wells, and Modesto Sanchez Lopez. (bot- destination, but it took the effort of a few tom) Francisco Victor, Modesto Sanchez Lopez, Juan Victor. Tagging billfish in Thailand 24 Research

TBF Added to IUCN Red List Team

TBF’s Dr. Russell Nelson was invited to be part of an international subspecies with criteria relevant to all species and all regions of the team of experts and participate in a “Red List” assessment of the world. The marine work is being done by Dr. Kent Carpenter and status of eastern Pacific tunas and billfish. The three-day workshop, Dr. Beth Polidori of the Global Marine Species Assessment Project held in September and at Old Dominion University. hosted by the International Union for the Conservation The Red List allows a of Nature (IUCN) and Peru’s mechanism to convey fisheries agency, IMARPE, the spread and nature of marked the beginning of conservation problems an effort to determine the to the public and conservation status of the policy makers such as world’s billfish and tuna government agencies, species. “While the threat wildlife departments, non- of absolute extinction for governmental conservation these pelagic species is most organizations and others. likely quite low, this exercise There are nine categories in creates an opportunity to the IUCN Red List system: view the overall status of Extinct, Extinct in the Wild, these species Members of the IUCN Red List team, including TBF’s Dr. Nelson (top row, 3rd from right). Critically Endangered, independently of the Endangered, Vulnerable, regional fishery management organizations (RFMOs), which all Near Threatened, Least Concern, Data Deficient, and Not too often have failed to provide good conservation measures to Evaluated. Classifications are based on biological factors related to ensure their abundance,” said Nelson. extinction risk and include: rate of decline, population size, area of geographic distribution, and degree of population and distribution The IUCN Red List is a comprehensive inventory of the global fragmentation. Final results of the tuna and billfish evaluation will be conservation status of plant and animal species. It uses a set of released after subsequent workshops for the central and western criteria to evaluate the extinction risk of thousands of species and Pacific, Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean.

(Thailand continued ) recognized or well known, the Andaman TBF applauds Wahoo Big Game Fishing for Islands, situated some 400 nautical miles their conservation efforts, critical tagging from Phuket, contain trophy fish. Our reports and invaluable guidance on fishing company has spent the last eight years in Southeast Asia. If you are interested in exploring this vast area and has found booking a trip out to Phuket, Thailand please several hotspots that really produce “the contact John at [email protected] or visit www. goods.” Black and blue marlin can be wahoo.ws. TBF would welcome more new found in good numbers there. This year International Tagging Partners like Wahoo. If we topped out with thirty two marlin and you or your organization is interested in TBF’s eight very big sailfish tagged in 15 days of program, please contact Captain Sudjai “Jai” (left) and Captain Somkieat serious marlin fishing. The biggest marlin [email protected]. “Kieat” (right) with John Pierce. topped approximately around 750 lbs.

25 Atlantic Advocacy

Nations Receive “F” for Implementation & Compliance

CCAT is the international regional fisheries the Mediterranean Sea by purse seiners Nations Fail management organization (RFMO) targeting spawning aggregations. The review found that ICCAT does not Ichartered to manage and conserve tunas meet conservation objectives, due largely and billfish throughout the Atlantic Ocean The Gulf of Mexico is the spawning ground to the lack of compliance by many fishing and adjacent waters. A review of the for the western Atlantic bluefin stock, whose nations. It concluded that the large conservation performance of ICCAT, population is seriously in decline. While no 45-member organization, ranging from the conducted by three independent fisheries “directed” fishing can be conducted for most developed in Europe and the scientists from Japan, Australia and Canada, bluefin in the Gulf, an “incidental” catch is Americas, to the underdeveloped nations, has just been published and - as most allowed in the yellowfin tuna fishery. The like Senegal and Namibia, has contributed expected – it is a scathing attack on the most billfish bycatch by U.S. vessels in U.S. to difficulties in setting and implementing organization’s failure to effectively manage waters occurs in the Gulf in the yellowfin enforceable conservation measures. A tunas and billfish in the Atlantic. The failure is tuna fishery. Those landing bluefin in the Gulf revision of the ICCAT Convention (treaty) due primarily because ICCAT nations garner are limited in numbers, based on a required to modernize management tools and an “F” for implementation and compliance, tonnage of target catch, though nothing operating procedures was one of many therefore making the effectiveness of the prevents “high-grading” one bluefin for the whole organization greatly diminished. The next larger one caught. additional recommendations. ICCAT science arm of ICCAT received a “B” and Chairman and Scientist Fabio Hazin of the acknowledgement that assessments and TBF is calling for a reduction in the western Brazil notified member nations to be advice are critically impacted by the failure of bluefin quota and a closure in the Gulf to prepared to discuss these results at the many member nations to provide timely and protect spawning bluefin and marlin killed as November negotiations in Morocco. TBF’s accurate data. bycatch by pelagic longline gear. For eastern President Ellen Peel and Dr. Russel Nelson Atlantic bluefin tuna, TBF is will be members of the U.S. delegation to Bluefin Tuna urging ICCAT to authorize ICCAT this year. The reviewers found that catch levels to conform with ICCAT’s performance on the ICCAT scientific Peel notes that while the large number of managing bluefin tuna in the recommendation. nations and their diversity in size and eastern Atlantic and economic development contributes to Mediterranean Sea was “an Blue Marlin and ICCAT’s inefficiencies, it is vital for all international disgrace” and White Marlin nations to participate and to support and recommended a total Management of blue and adhere to recommendations made by the moratorium on fishing that white marlin species was scientists. Failure to do so leads directly species. Scientists viewed with cautious to greater declines and poorer fisheries. recommended a quota of optimism. A major caveat no more than 15,000 comes with news that even metric tons (mt) for the though some increase in TBF has recently increased efforts in the eastern bluefin tuna stock, Bluefin Tuna stock abundance may be Caribbean to encourage nations to but ICCAT set a 29,500 mt quota for 2008. occurring presently, both species are way participate in ICCAT science meetings and Catch levels are set by a consensus of below the safe level of biomass that would negotiations. Marlin, tunas and sharks all member nations, hence there are many that produce Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY). migrate in the Caribbean and contribute to do not want to embrace conservation and Failure of many nations to accurately report the coastal economies. Each nation should restrain landings. By the time the European sailfish landings and effort data precluded any exercise their rights to help improve ICCAT Commission declared a closure in the fishery real analysis of their management. In the face management, otherwise they have no voice last June, over 60,000 mt were landed. Even of this uncertainty, fishing mortality for this as others overfish species important to their worse, the bulk of this harvest is caught in species should be stabilized or reduced. region and economy.

26 aTLANTIC Advocacy

bluefin fishery, but did not receive support from any other member country. “Ultimately I believe that the only thing that might save thi s stock is to move beyond ICCAT and seek a ban on international trade before the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species,” Nelson told the Panel. Peel said, “I am less than optimistic about a recovery for eastern bluefin, but I am ready to embrace the ICCAT challenge and work to find support for conservation from enough members to make a difference – we must find a creative way to force members to comply.”

This year’s ICCAT negotiations will present an extremely difficult negotiating challenge. 2007 ICCAT negotiations Even if the result is that ICCAT arbitrarily dismisses the scientists’ recommendations, improve ICCAT’s management of highly the U.S. must take a leadership role for a ICCAT Commissioners met in September migratory species. This year’s recent and October preparing strategy for the scathing performance review of ICCAT, plus binding ICCAT recommendation to conform annual negotiations in Marrakech, Morocco another attempt to prevent the collapse of to their science advice. ICCAT nations in November. TBF’s Dr. Russell Nelson, bluefin tuna, along with compliance will be should be responsible by implementing, President Ellen Peel and Dr. C. Phillip the hot topics on the agenda. complying and reporting data as needed to Goodyear are longstanding members of this initiate a recovery. TBF will be part of the Last year, the U.S. began the negotiations group with years of experience working to with a call for a total closure of the eastern US negotiating team.

New Measures Considered for U.S. Caribbean Fisheries

The National Marine Fisheries Service concluded public scoping meetings in August in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands to obtain comments on possible changes to the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Plan. The primary focus of the proposed amendment is to look at possible new measures including: (1) creating a small Photo courtesy of Mark Smestad commercial vessel Caribbean HMS permit (valid for albacore, yellowfin, and skipjack tuna fishery; (4) allowing sharks, tunas, and swordfish); (2) combining commercial the presence of fish traps onboard a fishing vessel when Caribbean vessel and dealer permits, thus allowing retaining HMS; (5) developing methods to improve individual vessels to sell their catch in small retail markets; reporting and data collection; and (6) monitoring effort (3) authorizing buoy gear in the Caribbean bigeye, and catches near FADS (fish aggregation devices).

27 Pacific Advocacy Fisheries Challenges in Costa Rica Purse Seine Threatens TBF Chair Joan Vernon and Dr. Russell Sport Boats Nelson on June 23rd informing them of Sportfishing boat crews, guests and owners the series of incidents and supplying fishing off of Quepos, Los Suenos and Cabo several videotapes and photos taken Blanco in Costa Rica were the target of tuna during the June 21 incident. Nelson and purse seine vessels in a series of incidents TBF's Central American Conservation documented last June. Vessels fishing schools Director Herbert Nanne were in Panama of large yellowfin tuna were first harassed on representing TBF at the Inter-American Friday, June 20, when helicopters launched Tropical Tuna Commission meeting at the from a purse seiner drove them off the time and immediately brought the matter school of tuna by dropping small explosive to the attention of Carlos Villalobos, charges on the boats. The next day, the head of Costa Rica's fisheries agency A purse seine vessel similar to the one pictured here wrapped fishing vessel Andrea F, a Nicaraguan INCOPESCA. Upon viewing the tapes and seven sports boats with its net off Costa Rica. Photo courtesy NOAA / Department of Commerce. flagged boat owned by a "blind" Panamanian photos, Villalobos ordered a formal legal corporation, intentionally encircled seven investigation of these potentially criminal sportfishing boats fishing a school of acts. On July 1, at Los Suenos Marina, of its permit to fish in Costa Rican waters yellowfin and confined them inside the Nanne, along with INCOPESCA attorney and the incident should be reported to the diameter of its large net. The incident lasted Guillermo Ramirez, met with the captains, Nicaraguan authorities as well". more than an hour, during which time the crew and owners who were subjected to View a video of the incident at the TBF web seven boats were harassed and threatened the harassment by the purse seiner. Formal site: http://www.billfish.org/new/video.asp. by the netters with the commercial vessel's sworn statements were given to launch the As this issue went to press the final results of investigation. INCOPESCA took statements helicopter buzzing the sport boats at a very the investigation had not been released. close range, once even slamming into the from the Captain of the Andrea F and SSB antennae of one vessel. The sport received a video of the incident taken by TBF and OSPESCA Move boats included the Carolina Magic, Spanish the purse seine crew. Forward on Central American Fly, Dragin Fly, Gringo Honeymoon and Drivon said, "This brazen attempt to claim Billfish Management Plan Desperado. Two of the vessels are U.S. that the fishing grounds are owned lock, Dr. Russell Nelson, TBF Chief Scientist, and flagged. Reports of a similar incident were stock and barrel by the commercial interests Herbert Nanne, TBF Conservation Director heard on the following day. was stopped in its tracks by a small group for Central America, met with OSPESCA

of dedicated sportsmen, both Americans (Central America’s fisheries commission) “This has been happening for years, but it’s and Ticos. Refusing to roll over caused an really escalated to violence,” said Nancy international flap that resulted in decisive Lebo, co-owner of the Maverick Sport action by INCOPESCA to investigate. Let's Fishing Yachts, a charter and yacht building hope they finish the job. This shows the company, which owns the Spanish Fly, one lengths to which those who put short-term of the boats involved. Upon returning to profits first will go”. port, Captain Daniel Espinoza of the Spanish Fly filed a criminal complaint for kidnapping "TBF was happy to bring these dangerous against the Andrea F. actions to the attention of the proper officials," said TBF President Ellen Peel, Larry Drivon, Ms. Lebo’s partner in "and we look forward to justice from Maverick Sportfishing Yachts, contacted INCOPESCA - this vessel should be stripped TBF’s Nanne and Nelson meet with Central American fisheries commissioners in Panama City.

28 Pacific Advocacy

Director Mario González and the Central raised concerns about overfishing of billfish American Fisheries Commissioners to the with Dr. Earhardt describing the apparent Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission in dramatic decline in sailfish abundance off Panama City in June. The meeting was called Costa Rica and Dr. Nelson showing similar by TBF to introduce the Commissioners of data indicating drops in blue and striped the seven Central American countries to the marlin stocks. He also shared a glimpse of conservation and science measures TBF is TBF’s upcoming socio-economic study in developing in conjunction with OSPESCA. Costa Rica. These measures will protect sailfish, marlin, dorado and other species important to the TBF and the Costa Rican sportfishing sportfishing tourism industries of the region. associations are forging ahead to create a Quepos sportfishing leaders join TBF’s conservation efforts Proposed actions include the establishment national Sportfishing Federation that would of a regional sportfishing database, an associations, INCOPESCA, the national be recognized by the government and intensive billfish tagging program and a fisheries commission, preliminarily supported represent all sportfishing interests in the variety of alternative conservation measures a ban on the export of sailfish. Unfortunately country. ranging from de-commercialization of at press time, commission attorneys raised billfish to closed areas designed to protect questions about the legality of this action. TBF’s Costa Rica Road Trip important sportfishing grounds and billfish We wait to see if it survives final government To brief sportfishing interests on the socio- aggregations. A TBF drafted document review and is implemented with meaningful economic study that begins this fall, TBF’s entitled, “A Central American Isthmus oversight and compliance measures. Nelson, Nanne and Southwick braved Regional Agreement to Standardize the torrents of rain, flooding bridges and even Criteria for the Sustainable Management Leading up to this vote, a pivotal August avalanches. Following a seven-hour drive of Marine Fishing with Emphasis on meeting was organized by TBF and Costa from San Jose, they met with sportfishing Sportfishing Tourism” was delivered to the Rican sportfishing association leaders, who leaders in Golfito at the Banana Bay Marina. Commissioners for their initial review. met with INCOPESCA President Carlos Attendees were given a review of how a Villalobos. Over 50 sportfishing association similar study was conducted in Mexico last TBF also raised the issue of declining dorado leaders from Golfito, Quepos, Los Suenos, year and briefed on the type of survey data (dolphin fish) stocks in the region and sought Flamingo and Playas de Coco joined TBF’s that will be needed from angling customers the support of the seven nations in getting Nelson, Herbert Nanne and economics and businesses. “We think this sort of work this issue before the Inter-American Tropical consultant Rob Southwick to present a is exactly what we need to make our points Tuna Commission (IATTC). unified front in support of saving Costa in San Jose,” said Bruce Blevins, owner of Rica’s once legendary sportfishery. The Banana Bay. The next day saw another rough “We believe the declining abundance of prime objective of the group was to push dorado is contributing to an increased for the export ban of sailfish fishing pressure by the commercial coastal from Costa Rica and demand longliners on other important sportfishing that two seats on the Board species like sailfish,” explained Nanne. TBF of INCOPESCA be designated will meet with sportfishing associations and for a sportfishing and a tourism national fisheries officials this fall to move the representative. The seats would process along in Central America. need to be designated by an act of Congress. Export Ban on Costa Rican Sailfish Stalled! During this meeting, After months of discussions, meetings with presentations were made by Dr. government officials and organized pressure Nelson Earhardt and TBF’s Dr. applied from TBF and the local sportfishing Russell Nelson. Both scientists Rain, floods and traffic meet TBF’s Nelson, Nanne and Southwick on Costa Rican Tour 29 Pacific Advocacy

ride to a similar meeting in Quepos with a TBF’s Quepos Sportfishing quick stop at Los Suenos, ending the night in Community Survival Fund raised Puntarenos. The trip to Playas de Coco the $5,000, which was distributed to the following day was again slowed by rainfall, ten neediest families in Quepos by but the meeting that night at El Ocotal was TBF’s Herbert Nanne on July 2. Local enthusiastic. fleet owner and community leader Jeanette McDonald praised the support. This socio-economic study is being “We are all so grateful that while our contracted with The Institute for Scientific own government ignored us, TBF was Economics at the University of Costa Rica able to make this donation to keep food and Southwick Associates of Jacksonville, on the tables of these folks.” Most of the Contract for TBF socio-economic study signed in Costa Rica by Florida; the contracts were signed in fleet in Quepos is up and running again. (L to R) Roberto Guillen and Dr. Henning Jensen from the Uni- October. versity of Costa Rica with Ellen Peel and Herbert Nanne of TBF.

TBF Distributes Support to Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), an Storm Victims U.S Pacific Council RFMO, to take action to reduce mortality On June 5th, a rare Pacific Tropical Storm on striped marlin. This came following an (Alma) hit Costa Rica and other countries in Threatens assessment indicating that this stock has Central America. Flooding was extensive in New Longline fallen to a spawning potential ratio of 9%, Costa Rica, destroying thousands of homes, damaging 100 bridges and causing extensive Fishery far below the acknowledged management damage to the sportfishing fleet in Quepos. Once again the Pacific Fishery Management benchmarks of 20% to 40%. Both the Ten vessels were sunk and 18 more Council is taking up the issue of establishing IATTC and WCPFC have raised concerns severely damaged. The devastation to the a limited entry longline fishery west of about the status of albacore tuna, the status sportfishing fleet left over 200 local people the U.S. 200 mile west coast EEZ. The of dolphin fish and other species, which without any immediate source of income. Council’s Highly Migratory Species (HMS) would be impacted by this increase in fishing Management Team has been wrestling effort. Clearly all the existing scientific advice In response to the disaster, TBF launched with the potential impacts of the move argues against creating a new fishery that will an appeal for donations to help keep the on sea turtles and has not focused on the increase effort and mortality on this already families of the crews put out of work potential impacts to already stressed or stressed HMS complex.” stocked with food and essentials while they overfished HMS stocks in the eastern Pacific. TBF is monitoring this situation closely and worked to rebuild. “TBF is always proud of In a September letter to the Council, TBF will continue to strongly oppose adding new our sportfishing community, which is quick President Ellen Peel wrote: “At present our fishing pressure to already overfished stocks. to respond whether to Katrina on the Gulf previous concern has been justified by the Stay tuned for developments. Coast or Alma in Costa Rica,” observed TBF findings that bigeye and yellowfin are both President Ellen Peel. experiencing overfishing. The failure of the IATTC (Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission) to adopt recommendations of their stock assessment working group to reduce mortality substantially for three straight years argues strongly against the Council deciding to increase fishing mortality on these stocks. The addition of a minimum of over one million new hooks set annually into the eastern Pacific would have a dangerous and unwarranted impact on these tuna stocks. Scientists have advised the Western and Central Herbert Nanne presents $5,000 for Quepos relief to Yellowfin tuna coming aboard during pole and line operation. Jeanette McConald. Photo courtesy of NOAA / Department of Commerce. Inter-American CONSERVATION Tropical Tuna Commission BY DESIGN (IATTC) Takes Another Dive

The June meeting of the IATTC - an “The process is disabled,” said TBF’s international regional fisheries management Nelson, “and the obstructive atmosphere organization (RFMO) - responsible for the fomented by the few has effectively eastern tropical Pacific - ended without any destroyed the Commission’s ability to act. agreement on conservation measures for While Mexico, Venezuela, the U.S. and troubled stocks of yellowfin and bigeye tuna. other nations worked tirelessly to build Dr. Russell Nelson and Central American a consensus, a few member states were Conservation Director Herbert Nanne reluctant to compromise and effectively represented TBF at the meetings working blocked adoption of a binding agreement.” with the U.S. and Latin American delegations to try and adopt (1) 12-week purse seine Following the meeting TBF joined in a closure, (2) an offshore area closed to fishing press release with the Humane Society If you want north of the Galapagos and (3) reductions in International, Ocean Conservancy, tuna quotas for the high seas longline fleet Conservation International, World Wildlife to ensure a vibrant recommended by the stock assessment Fund, National Fisheries Institute, Marviva, working group. Ultimately, a majority of the American Fishermen’s Research sportfishing tradition member nations agreed to a measure that Foundation, The Western Fishboat Owners came close to the reductions recommended Association and Bird Life International all that is more by the scientific team, but consensus was calling for reform in the organization and blocked by a few countries that refused the need for a move away from consensus than a beautiful to accept any reductions in their national decision making. Though other nations tuna catches. This marks the third straight dragged their feet, the failure to reach memory captured year the IATTC has been paralyzed by a consensus was largely attributable to lack of consensus and unable to take any Colombia, which obstructed progress and on canvas ... action to protect tuna stocks. In the last even called into question the authority of decade, an increase in purse seine fishing the IATTC to issue binding conservation effort on artificial floating objects, which resolutions. Colombia, the IATTC’s newest are fish aggregation devices (FADS), has member, effectively derailed the negotiation JOIN TBF TODAY! dramatically increased bycatch of billfish, process by demanding a special exemption dorado, wahoo and other finfish species. from implementing the seven-week fishery closure period to allow fish stock recovery, “The IATTC has failed to take action a measure to which all other member at a critical juncture for the successful nations had agreed. The negotiations broke management of these tuna stocks,” said down as nations insisted that measures had U.S. IATTC Commissioner Rod McInnis. to be applicable to all and Colombia refused “The United States certainly does not want to comply. to see a sharp decline of yellowfin and YOU can become a member The IATTC agreed to an extraordinary bigeye tuna stocks in the eastern Pacific meeting in November of this year to for as little as $25. like the depletion and looming collapse of again attempt to take some action to halt Ask about the Chairman’s Club eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean bluefin the decline of tuna stocks. TBF, the only and Corporate Sponsorships. tuna. We fear that because the members sportfishing representative with authority to of this Commission are failing to adopt a field a delegation to this Commission, will Call 1-800-438-8247 management regime supported by the best again be present and provide support to the available science, we may be headed down U.S. and other nations seeking to reverse 954-938-0150 x 106 that path in the near future.” these dangerous declines in tuna abundance. or visit our website at: www.Billfish.org Education

How Coral Reefs Help Billfish TBF Demonstrates the Link

organisms that inhabit them and coral reef management. TBF eagerly took its message and scientific research about billfish links to coral reefs to the ICRS. TBF’s sponsorship of the event, along with its exhibit booth, manned by staff members Peter Chaibongsai and Chris Scott, allowed TBF to reach out to other conservation organizations, as well as scientists, economists and resource managers from all over the globe.

During the event, TBF spoke with TBF’s Peter Chaibongsai and Chris Scott in the booth at the ICRS. representatives of organizations, government agencies and universities about BF challenged conventional thought Answer: the waters that encompass coral possible collaborations. These include and initiated a new potentially reefs provide a natural shelter for billfish NOAA, the Rosenstiel School of Marine and T critical partnerships as a co- spawning. Several published papers have Atmospheric Science (RSMAS) and the Cape sponsor of this year’s International Coral demonstrated that regions like the Florida Eleuthera Institute. TBF created stronger Reef Symposium (ICRS). The quadrennial Straits and the Coral Sea, where there are ties with RSMAS in particular, thanks in part event, held July 7 – 11 in Fort Lauderdale, large tracts of coral reefs, are spawning sites to TBF’s new Science and Policy Specialist, was its first in the U.S. in 30 years. This year for billfish. The link between coral reefs Elliott Stark, who recently completed his marks the International Year of the Reef. and billfish spawning is part of a complex graduate studies there. The ICRS provided TBF the opportunity to equation that must be solved successfully in present another vital purpose and reason for order to rebuild billfish stocks. For information on the organizations protecting coral reefs: billfish. attending the symposium or any The ICRS also provided an important venue of the symposium’s sessions, What connects pelagic (off shore) species where stakeholders gathered to discuss please visit www.nova.edu/ncri/11icrs/. like billfish to near shore bound coral reefs? the latest information about coral reefs,

INSIDE: Why Billfi sh Blaze in Colors and Lights! TBF Youth Education Materials Published by The Billfish Foundation Issue No. 5 STeens’AILFISH Take on Billfish Conservation Make a Splash with Gulf Kids ver the summer months, TBF Youth Conservation-Smart Program aims to reached out to kids in Mississippi, assist in the fishery and ocean conservation GULF OF MEXICO: Truly Awesome! Louisiana, Florida and Alabama, education of tomorrow’s anglers, captains, O TAG & RELEASE AWARDS:

thanks to grants from the Curtis and Edith mates, decision makers, educators, And the Winners Are . . . Munson Foundation and The William H. attorneys, scientists and other individuals and Mattie Wattis Harris Foundation. TBF interested in our quality of life. This program staff shared educational materials including includes student conservation workshops, Spearfish (for elementary students) and outreach activities, curriculum worksheets Sailfish (for teens), along with TBF’s ocean that accompany educational publications and and resource conservation message. TBF’s interactive panels with scientists. A BILLFISH CONSERVATION MAGAZINE FOR YOUNGAngel Muntaner, ADULTS Jr. tags his way to a TBF Youth Tagging Award. A BILLFISH CONSERVATION MAGAZINE FOR YOUNG ADULTS

sailfish.indd 1 9/8/2008 5:55:08 PM 32

FISHur Oceans. PEAR Hot? or S Cool In July, one outreach activity was in Are they The Billfi sh Foundation’s Conservation Program for Kids who Care about o Ocean Currents: The Answer Makes a WorldWhy are oceans of Differencemore salty when they are surroundedminerals by conjunction with the Bay Point Invitational desert? This is because when seawater evaporates, only the water is turned into gas. The stay in the ocean. Inuch desert rain, Did you know that oceans and salts areas, where there is not m cover more than the ocean has higher salinity levels Catch three-fourths of the because over time there is less tournament’s new Al Hubbard Kids Earth’s surface? water, but the amount of minerals and salts stay the same. In other The three largest oceans in the places, such as where rivers flowre world are the Pacific, Atlantic, and into the ocean or in places whe Indian Oceans. Although some seas Fishing Experience. The event, which because have different names, the world’sle there is a lot of rain, salinity levels the Caribbean Wave oceans are in some ways a singocean in the ocean are lower. This is ents body of water. Things called in these places there is more fresh water ty. flow around the world’s currents entering the ocean. In some oceans, curr that memorializes local legend Al Hubbard oceans. Some ocean currents bring run from places with high salinity to places with low salini Most everyone knows the waves throughout the Caribbean are beautiful warm water from the tropics around the he These currents keep levels of saltiness balanced so equator to cold, Polar Regions. Others bring ts, sometimes marine organisms can remain healthy. cold water from the North and South poles to t o the climate of the equator. The overall system of ocean curren , can you think for his love of fishing and the Panama places called circulation, is very importanttemperatures t nt A Fish Eat Fish World and inviting and turbulent at times. Lately anglers and others interested in Earth. Aside from different These differences in temperature and saltiness of rmer—the of any characteristics of sea water that might be differe oceans are two things that cause ocean currents. In flow, from one ocean to another? where warm water currents flow, climates are wa even on land! In places where cold water currents City Beach community, included How Salty Water ocean conservation in the Caribbean are surfing new waves – the waves Gets Saltier Salinity, or the measurements of temperatures in the air minerals and salts in seawater, can be colder. In this way of oceanthe can be different from one oceaner climate children who might also depend to the next. In bodies of salt wat currents are very importantfish and to the whales of “Live” at radio station WOSO, 1080 AM, in

surrounded by desert where there bottom of the sea Earth. Many species of is little rainfall, oceans was are given more its warm it up) and from the Dead Sea on ocean currents. Cold water from the salty. The rrents to near the land. (where no sunlight can reach it to otherwise never have the name because its salinity levels are and many important and so high that it is harmful to Earth’s poles can travel innutrients ocean cu Puerto Rico. “Live” is the creation of Javier Lopez most organisms. These waters are full of valuable fish species can be found(continued in these top areas. of next page) 4 PM 3:23:2 Thank you kids, parents 9/8/2008 sharing these wonderful stories.storiesand family We aremembers grateful for opportunity to go fishing. Three support of TBF and commitment to billfi GET HOOKED! . We are grateful for your for your and Ryan Christiansen, and the radio show has . . . On Fishing. . . the Oceans. . . WE’RE HOOKED! sh conservation. AND Meet some kids your age and read their stories about why Spearfish.indd 1 Conservation they’re hooked on fi shing and the oceans … local children’s organizations – D O Y O U L O V E TO FIS H ? WA N T TO LEA R N TO FIS H ? D O Y O U T H IN K T H E O C EA N S A R E A FU N, C O O L P L A C E ? been in production for two years. In two 30-minute IF YOU ANSWER “YES!” TO ANY OF THESE Q Laurel Tynes M A KES S E N S E F O R Y O U TO B E “C O N S E R VATI O N - S M A R T ”. Laurel Tynes, a student at Oak Park Elementary School in Ocean Springs, UESTIONS, IT Oceans are Awesome … and Mississippi got hooked on fi shing at the age of two when she caught her fi rst the Boys and Girls Club of Bay Your Help trout in her grandfather’s pond. But The oceans are amazing. Oceans support Need th Laurel began her love of the water when diversity of species on Earth. Wit she was even younger. Since the age of segments a week, “Live” fills the air waves with water, life on Earth would not exist. 13 months, she has loved visiting Horn e greatest hout oceans, without Island, a barrier island off Mississippi But the oceans need our help. To ha where she travels with her family. She to reduce pollution, overfishing and says it’s a great place for fi shing, playing the warm Gulf waters. Laurel often joins her dad and the boys on County, the Anchorage Children’s in the sugar-white sand and swimming in to take care of marine ec ve healthy oceans, we need day-long fi shing trips and can “hang in there” longer than the boys! overdevelopment. We need habitat, or a home, to marlinosystems. These ecosystems provide Laurel’s little sister, Gatlin Grace, is following in her footsteps. She mangroves, fishes and so much more. The took her fi rst boat trip at 7 months old. It won’t be long before fascinating discussions that focus on offshore , whales, sea turtles, sea grasses, Gatlin is “hooked” too! provide food for people all over the wor place to visit and hav oceans also e fun. ld and are a great Jake Milner Home and the Gulf Coast Children’s Over the summer, The Billfish Foun Jake Milner, a preschool student, gained reached out to Gulf of Mexico kids by working new appreciation for the oceans through through fishing clubs and tournam dation a “Message in the Bottle” experiment he did with his classmates at Coast Episcopal recreational fishing and related ocean issues. The Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida an Preschool in Long Beach, Mississippi. shared educational materials includinents in Each student fi lled a bottle with 3 to 4 the word about ocean conserv d Alabama. We inches of sand, for ballast, and put a note inside explaining the class was studying Advocacy Center – partnered with TBF will be working with teachers andg, Spearfish oceans. The note also included the ation and how to fish and responsibly. spread on more exciting billfish and conservation student’s name and the school address. ensure that magnificent billfish students this semester Each bottle was sealed with a cork. Jake’s was then deployed south of Cat Island, a barrie Friday evening show generates the largest estimated number of listeners available when you and your frien projects. We want to were taught not to throw trash, including bottles, overboard, unles each need to do our part today. and opportunities to fish are it was part of a research project. ds grow up. To succeed, we r island. Students the tournament for the event. Nine Not long after school recessed for the summer, Jake’s bottle was s How to Be Conservation Sma found by Jennifer Love, a college student who wrote a letter to Jake sharing her excitement in fi nding his bottle. Jake’s bottle trave To help our oceans and the life they with the currents from the Mississippi island, through the waters off Alabama and was washed ashore on Navarre Beach, Florida – east - between 25,000 and 30,000 - and on Saturday morning the audience is start by taking these simple steps andrt be sure tell your parents, grandparents a of Pensacola! support, led 1. P r a c t i c e c a t c h - a n d - r e l e a s e f i s h i n g , nd friends, as well. local charter boat captains volunteered b i l l f i s h i n g . to 2. When you do take fish, take only those you e s n p e c i a l l y i f y o u ’ r e those that are in greater abundance, like mahi Mariella Acebal Mariella Acebal, an 8-year-old girl and sea trout. usually about 10,000. Both Lopez and Christiansen have enjoyed fishing eed, and eat from the Dominican Republic, 3. Place used fishing line or any other trash enjoys fi shing but what happened -mahi, mackerel, to her this summer makes her trash or recycled receptacles. their boats, time and resources to love it even more. Fishing out 4. Ask grown-ups to dispose of in the proper of Cap Cana on the east coast the dorados were plentiful but theyof wouldn’t the Dominican take the Republic bait. The with recycle centers. fi shing party knew white marlin seasonher dad had and started cousin so onthey June went 1st, chemical liquids at their local looking for them too. Around noon the strike hit and Mariella’s line off Puerto Rico all their lives and the two are concerned that they are 5. Be mindful of the fishing and boating eq screeched. The white marlin breached the surface several times your family use and be careful where yo as Mariella fought and reeled it in. She caught and then released her fi rst white! Mariella, thrilled by the experience, went on to connect with the kids and teach them T h e r e ’ s m u c h m o r e t o k n o w a b ouipment u t t you and u place your anchor. catch some snapper with her cousin, Ernesto. It’s a day they’ll a m a z i n g l i f e t h e y s u p p o r t l i k e g i a n t b i l always remember. i s s u e s o f S p e a r f i s h , y o u ’ l lh le e a o r c n e a m ns o , a b o u t t h e c o o l s c i e n c e a n d m o r e a b o u t l hf i s h . I n c o m i n g Do you have a story to share for the next issue of Spearfi sh? If experiencing far fewer fish today than when they fished as young kids. c o n s e r v a t i o n s m a r t r e f u n f a c t s , m o r e o w y o u c a n h e l p b y b e i n g you do and are age 12 or under, please contact us at . education@billfi sh.org or send to TBF’s address listed on the how to fish. TBF provided the educational Spearfish.indd 3 back of this issue. Be sure to include your name, age and contact information in case we have questions. materials about billfish conservation and

9/8/2008 3 :23:46 PM the importance of fishing responsibly. All The Friday, August 15

(Ocean Currents continued frome coast front of Perupage) in South Check it eep ocean that is full A good example of this is off th out Kids! show was broadcast America. Cold water fromby the ocean d currents to participants received TBF t-shirts as well. of the nutrients is pushed What did the surface of the sea. Millions and millions of small fish and other marine organisms you learn? 1. What are the things called that gather there to eat the nutrients and bigger fish and flow between different oceans? live from Club Nautico whales come to eat the small fish and organisms.. Not only Because of this Peru has historically been one of 2. What are two properties of seawater the best places to fish in the world that can be different from one ocean to do fishermen catch tons of anchovies and sardines Beginning this fall, TBF will team up with the next? there every year, but the world’s largest black marlin de San Juan during (incredibly weighing over 1,500 pounds) was caught off 3. Name a body of water with extremely the coast of Peru. Today, marlin are being conserved high salinity. How did it get its name? through proper release fishing. What are some of the factors that give it selected elementary and middle schools in such high salinity? the 55th International 4. In what country was the world’s largest black marlin caught? Do you know what ating. They help maintain the Ocean Currents Connect Us All continent this country is on? Gulf of Mexico states to augment learning ocean to the next. Fish Ocean currents are very fascin rely on ocean currents to Earth’s climate and connect one 5. Where are two places in the ocean where marine organisms their eggs and larvae. Ocean and other cold waters come from (Hint: one is a Billfish Tournament. em warmer in the bring them food and disperse location on the earth and one is a place r. They can help boats sail opportunities about billfish, their marine currents can make the air around th in the water column)? t life-filled areas in the winter or colder in the summe nt black marlin and and supply food to some of the mos sea. From tiny fish and sardineske life topossible—for gia fish in the Christiansen and Lopez whales, ocean currents ma ecosystems, other marine creatures ocean and for us on land as well. Spearfish Activity: included high profile Temperatures to and ocean dynamics. An important te warm waters Looking at the map of Sea Surface Left to right – Rob Kramer, Ellen Peel, Ryan the right, oranges and yellowsdicate indica cold waters. In the ned that currents travel and blues and purples in Ocean Currents article we learare very warm to where they aspect of these experiences will be to individuals in town for Christiansen, Dr. Ricky Jaen, Javier Lopez, from places where waters are very cold. Currents also travel from places where waters are very cold Cujo Brinkmeyer. to where they are very share knowledge on how to help and Important words to know… the tournament as guests. warm. With that in mind, use a pencil, pen the map showing BIODIVERSITY: the variety of organisms found within a specifi ed region. currents are SPECIES: an organism that belongs to a basic classifi cation for plants or crayon to draw arrows on ook on the back or animals. which way you think the ocean e how you BILLFISH: a species of fi sh with exceptionally long nasal bones that form a identify other reference materials going. When you are finished, l pointed section referred to as a “bill”. atterns in 3:23:41 PM 9/8/2008 TBF President Ellen Peel shared information on what looks like some ECOSYSTEM: an ecological community together with its environment that page for the map of Ocean Gyres to se functions as a unit. did. Gyres are the large circulation p the oceans. available at appropriate grade levels possible increase in billfish populations that reside in the Caribbean and ndd 2 Spearfish.i for further learning. Atlantic, with both blue and white marlin showing slight improvement over the past five years. Captain Robert “Cujo” Brinkmeyer of theGame TBF Youth Members receive a subscription to either Spearfish or , famous for his expertise at finding and hooking up with big game Sailfish and help support TBF’s Conservation-Smart Program. If On you’re interested in learning more or giving a Youth Membership to a fish, shared observations and concerns about overfishing and the need young angler in your life, contact Deborah Cummings for improved fisheries management. President Rob Kramer told listeners at 1-800-438-8247 x 106 or [email protected]. that the IGFA will be hosting the World Recreational Fishing Symposium in November at its headquarters in Davie, Florida. This will be the first symposium hosted in the United States. Following the panel discussions, More Tag What Can You do to Help the & Release Oceans, Fish and other Ocean Life? Release Here are a few simple steps you can take in your everyday life: listeners were given an opportunity to phone in with their own Teen Anglers Join Worldwide M e Winners Efforts to Conserve Billfish TO EASE OVERFISHING –  Practice catch and release as often as possible, especially when billfishing, always revive and resuscitate fish before releasing them. questions. Because of the popularity of “Live,” Lopez and Christiansen You’re probably familiar with TBF’s popular bumper sticker “Release Me!” The Billfish Foundation has built and maintains the largest  Use non-offset circle hooks. or TBF’s T-shirt - “Release ‘em. They’ll Grow on You!” You might have private billfish database of its kind in the world.  When you do eat fish, take only those you need, and eat those that are one yourself. in greater abundance, for instance mahi-mahi, mackerel, and sea trout. This immense resource helps scientists determine range of billfish  Be mindful of and obey size and bag limits of fish, they are in But did you know that TBF carefully gathers reported data on every migration, estimate growth rates; and identify areas of concentration are considering syndication options to help energize anglers interested in released or tagged billfish that anglers tell us about? Here’s how of fish, angler effort and encounter rates with various billfish species. place to help make sure fish are not over harvested. it works. When anglers tag or release a billfish, they fill out a TBF All of this information is critical to furthering TBF’s advocacy for data card recording the approximate size and weight of the fish, the improved fisheries management and billfish conservation. TO HELP REDUCE POLLUTION – species, location, bait used, type of hook and more. If the billfish is  Place used fishing line or any other trash in the proper trash or recycled receptacles. tagged, they send a tracking number back to TBF so we can match Some Friendly Competition  Ask adults to dispose of chemical liquids at their local recycle centers conservation. it in the future if the same fish is caught again. That way scientists Every year, TBF holds Tag & Release competitions in which anglers (many municipalities and some stores will do this). can estimate many things, like the billfish’s age and growth rate and compete in a wide range of categories for captains, female anglers get an idea of how far it has traveled since first tagged. Thanks to and youth anglers. TBF then brings together the billfishing community  Make sure to turn off all the electricity and water when you are not using them. the cooperation of the angling community, TBF has achieved some each February to recognize the winners and celebrate the progress of the highest recapture rates ever for many billfish species. we’re making together toward greater billfish conservation. ANDRE LEFRANC TO ADDRESS HABITAT DESTRUCTION – Top Youth Release Angler Be a responsible boater, diver, and angler by being careful and thoughtful in Ages 11-12  Tag and release data cards are sent to TBF throughout each year You can get in the competition too.The next competition year runs making sure that your actions do not damage the ocean around you. from thousands of anglers, adults and youth alike, capturing from November 1, 2008 to October 31, 2009. Remember, you must  Be mindful of the fishing and boating equipment you use and be careful where you vital information on billfish encounters in seas around the world. be a TBF member to participate. Fill out and return the membership place your anchor, review the local nautical charts of the areas you are planning to go. Because of the cooperation of anglers, captains, and mates who form on the back page to join if you haven’t already. Go to www. TBF will continue to work with “Live” to keep the U.S. Caribbean care about billfish and want to see them thrive into the future, billfish.org for complete Tag & Release Competition rules.  Do not drive on or trample beach dunes.

Now that you’ve read this article, spread the word. Greater awareness of how to be Congratulations Tag & Release Youth Award Winners conservation smart is key. You can help make the oceans cleaner, healthier and billfish community up to date on proposed government changes in more productive. YOUTH TAGGING AWARDS YOUTH RELEASE AWARDS Ages 11-12 Ages 9-10 Thomas Matthew Hardy Diego Erickson / Jacquie Rushford Runner-Up – Jacob Pearcy fishing regulations. Runner-Up – Robbie Angus Ages 11-12

Andre Lefranc Ages 13-15 Runner-Up – Robbie Angus Angel Muntaner Gonzalez Ages 13-15 Runner-Up – Brad Hall Brad Hall DIEGO ERICKSON Ages 16-17 Runner-Up – Angel Muntaner Gonzalez Top Youth Tagging Angler James Angus Ages 16-17 Ages 11-12 James Angus OVERALL TAGGING YOUTH ANGLER Angel Muntaner Gonzalez OVERALL RELEASE YOUTH ANGLER Brad Hall (pictured at right) Brad Hall 12 13 13 33 Photo courtesy of Richard Gibson

Photo courtesy of Mark Smestad

Photo courtesy of Allison Yii

Photo courtesy of Richard Gibson

Photo courtesy of Mark Smestad Photo courtesy of Mark Smestad Photo courtesy

Photo courtesy of Diane Lloyd

34 Photo Courtesy of Corky Decker

Photo courtesy of Mark Smestad Photo courtesy of Allison Yii Photo courtesy of Diane Lloyd Photo courtesy of Diane Lloyd

Photo courtesy of Mark Smestad

Photo courtesy of Richard Gibson

Photo courtesy of Richard Gibson

Photo courtesy of Allison Yii

Photo courtesy of Sean Smith

Photo courtesy of Mark Smestad 35 MARSH HARBOUR, BAHAMAS – The second Annual Abaco Billfish Challenge (ABC) was another resounding success! While many 2nd Annual Abaco Billfish Challenge tournaments were down on participation this year, the ABC had 34 first-class billfishing teams fishing in its second year. By deciding to Contact: Amy Withers • 305-934-0505 • www.fishabc.com do things “their way,” Amy and Dave Withers have succeeded in creating an all-release billfish tournament that focuses as much on family fun and camaraderie as it does on top-notch fishing. Participants were treated to a highly anticipated “secret” performance at the kick-off party when renowned artist Dan Dunn took the stage. As the music played, Dan got to work on his giant canvases,

TBF throwing paint at them with brushes, hands and anything not tied down! Spinning the canvas as he went, the audience guessed the subject until each became apparent at the end. The resulting works depicted singer Ray Charles, a “World Premiere” Marlin Painting and an American Eagle. TBF Chairman’s Club Amy Withers presents The Billfish Foundation Member Dan Murphy and TBF Board Member Lainey Jones were both winning bidders. (You can see with a $10,000 donation from the ABC. Lainey’s marlin painting on the collage page!). The Thursday night poker tournament added a new i n g layer of intrigue to this year’s event. t When the tournament ended, Team Bodacious took home the literal “pot of gold” – the grand prize of $50,000 in U.S. Gold American Eagle coins. Owner/angler Pat Thomas, Captain Tim Keck, mate Frankie Lee, and angler Mike Thomas caught and released three blue marlin on day one, before adding a fourth on day two to clench first place. Owner/Captain Thomas Townsend on Persistence claimed second place with three released blue marlin. Third place went to TBF Board Member Luis Bacardi on Rum Bum, captained by Baxter Still, with two blue marlin and one white. In addition to placing in the ABC, Bacardi took first place in the Bermuda Triangle Series being fished within the ABC. u p p o r Generous donations were given to Every Child Counts, a local Bahamian school for special needs children and The Billfish Foundation. We thank the ABC for their continued commitment and Team Bodacious wins Top Team bragging rights support of TBF! along with $50,000 in gold coins.

S Photos courtesy of Richard Gibson. s DESTIN, FL - Shawna Meisner, tournament director for the Emerald Coast t 6th Annual Emerald Coast Blue Blue Marlin Classic proudly announced that a whopping $1,536,850 in cash prizes given out at this year’s tournament set a new record for the Gulf Marlin Classic Coast. Held at the beautiful San Contact: Shawna Meisner, Tournament Director • 866-505-4458 Destin Resort, the ECBC is fast

v e n [email protected] • www.fishecbc.com becoming one of the most popular tournaments in the panhandle. Along with great fishing, the area boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, golf, shopping, restaurants and live entertainment at the Baytowne Wharf. The tournament kicked off in grand style, with the boats leaving the E San Destin Marina in single file forming a boat parade – favorite tradition at the ECBC.

A total of 38 billfish were released, with first place in the release category going to angler Blan Marriott aboard Sea Spray. Top release team honors went to the team aboard Honey, with Captain Ray Coleman at the helm. The second place release team fished on the Bella Maria captained by Wayne Lewis with third place going to a n d the team aboard Quick Time with Captain Chad Linkous.

TBF added to the tournament excitement, giving anglers a chance to win some great raffle prizes. Youth angler Jett

s Tolbert snagged the grand prize, a pair of awesome Hobie Cat kayaks. The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic also TBF’s Deborah Cummings with grand made a contribution to billfish conservation with a generous donation of $5,000 to The Billfish Foundation!

t prize raffle winner Jett Tolbert. Photo courtesy of Allison Yii.

HAMILTON, BERMUDA – Tropical storm Bertha didn’t stop the show at this year’s Bermuda Big Game Classic. The long-lasting 8th Annual Bermuda Big Game Classic storm meandered slowly around in the Atlantic before finally

visiting Bermuda – a day after the tournament ended. As usual, the Contact: Dan Jacobs, Tournament Director tournament put on by the Marlin Magazine team of Dan Jacobs, www.bermudabiggameclassic.com Lynda Wilson, and Natasha Lloyd was first class all the way, including wonderful meals at the opening and award banquets and the Bacardi cocktail hours.

The overall winner of the 2008 Classic was Que Mas with a total of four blue marlin releases. According o u r n a m e n to tournament director Dan Jacobs, Que Mas is on a winning streak, having placed first or second in four

T out of five recent Triple Crown events. Geoff Coate won on points with one blue and two white marlin released. Top junior angler Spencer Watson released two blue marlin and top lady angler honors went to TBF board member Lainey Jones who released three blue and one white marlin. A total of 69 billfish were released during the course of the tournament.

The Classic also encouraged tournament anglers to further support billfish conservation and hosted a Winning team Que Mas celebrates their victory. membership raffle, which was led by TBF Membership Director Deborah Cummings. Photo courtesy of John Ingham. 36 COSTA RICA – The beautiful Flamingo Beach Resort in Costa Rica was th the setting for the 29th International Sailfish Tournament. Teams from 29 International Sailfish five nations participated, including USA and Puerto Rico, South Africa, Tournament Club Amateur De Pesca Guatemala, Mexico and Costa Rica with a total of 36 anglers. Club Amateur de Pesca President Alberto Laurencich and his team of Directors including Contact: Grace Mora • [email protected] Armando Favalli, Domingo Dominguez, Jose Schifter and Eugenio Davidovich did a fine job presenting a fun and well-organized tournament.

The USA team, comprised of TBF President Ellen Peel, TBF members Carol Ott and Dr. Gail Kay, were the only female anglers from another country. The exceptional angler Nora Schofield from Costa Rica was the only other female angler, leading the team Norita’s Boys. Team USA gave the guys a run for their trophies with a total of 400 points, tying for fourth place in points. While in Costa Rica, Peel On the d o cks was interviewed by newspapers and magazines interested in writing stories on the fine job TBF is doing in Costa Rica and throughout Central America. The recent purse seine incident in which a large foreign commercial vessel wrapped seven sportfishing boats with its net was a great point of interest to the media. It was a black eye for the country, potentially impacting future tourism if a decision to pull the vessel’s permit is not made soon. USA Team: Ellen Peel, Carol Ott and Gail Kay. The first place team trophy went to Puerto Rico Light Tackle 1 with team members Bruno Rodriguez, Jose Jimenez and Carlos L. Barnes. The Top Boat Award was won by Gamefisher II, captained by Richard Chellemi with Junior Bustos A. and Diego Lopez C. Top kudos were earned once again by Grace Mora from the Club in her exceptional professionalism taking care of the logistics for the entire event – she makes it happen! TBF Chairwoman Joan Vernon, who usually fishes this event, could only join the award ceremony festivities due to an injured arm.

32nd Mobile Big Game Fishing Club Memorial Day Billfish Tournament

Contact: Robert Weaver • www.mbgfc.com

ORANGE BEACH, ALABAMA – The Mobile Big Game Fishing Club’s 32nd Memorial Day Billfish Tournament was once again a great success. This year’s tournament drew its largest number of boats ever – 117 boats with 583 anglers! The entire Club and especially Crew of High C’s celebrates. Top Male Angler Chase Nelson (middle). Tournament Director Robert Weaver and his Committee comprised of Todd Martin, Bill Haffner, Lucy Reid and Bill Waechter, were thrilled to have use of the new Billfish Pavilion for this tournament. The new pavilion provides an excellent site for tournament guests to watch boats backing in and to show footage of released fish. Two blue marlins and one white marlin were tagged and released. One giant bluefin tuna, weighing 700 pounds, caught on Annie Girl with Captain Mike Rowell and angler Truiett Jackson, stirred a lot of excitement.

The Top Large Boat was High C’s with 4 catch and releases; Top Male Angler was Chase Nelson on High C’s; Top Lady Angler was Sari Turner with two catch and releases on You Never Now, and Junior Angler was Joseph Morse. The MBGFC has been a long-time member and supporter of TBF with the Club’s President serving on TBF’s Board of Director’s.

Tournament sponsors are so important in making tournaments happen. Those supporters in the Memorial Day tournament were: Boater’s World, Gulf Coast Hatteras, J&M Tackle and Maui Jim.

POMPANO BEACH, FL - The 23rd 23rd Ladies’ Annual Fish-off Ladies’ Annual Fish-Off started on a festive note with a gala kick-off Contact: Mike Leach 954-351-8849 • www.ladiesfishoff.com party and silent auction held at the Pompano Beach Elks Club. The event was moved up to Thursday evening so anglers could enjoy the party and have a full day to prepare for the tournament held on Saturday, June 7th. The silent auction offered an array of tempting goodies including beautiful art, jewelry and great fishing gear. The bidding was both fun and frenzied with good friends trying to outbid each other for their favorite items – all for good causes! As a grateful beneficiary, TBF and would like to thank the Ladies’ Annual Fishoff for their donation of $3150.

A wonderful day of fishing culminated with Katy Sapp winning the top angler award with 69.3 points. Katy was aboard Native Sun, which also took top boat honors. A previous winner, Lyla Hamby aboard In Pursuit, took second place with 62.8 points, with third place going to Amy Fischer who accumulated 60.1 point on Shock Wave. Angler Lyla Hamby accepting award from tournament artist Roberta Stealy.

37 LA GUAIRA, VENEZUELA – Despite fueling difficulties and travel complications th 5 Annual Presidential Caribbean Cup posed by Hurricane Ike, the Presidential Caribbean Cup in La Guaira, Venezuela (September 12-14) was a resounding success. The nine boats entered in the Contact: Joan Vernon, Tournament Director tournament, headquartered out of Marina Portofino, released a total of 154 www.preschallenge.com white marlin, 15 blue marlin, and six sailfish in three days of fishing. With Captain Dan Kipnis manning the radio and tournament director Joan Vernon coordinating everything else, the fishermen were free to catch fish – and catch fish they did. At the end of day two, the Big Oh captained by Ronnie Fields nearly doubled the score of the nearest boat with 6,400 points. On day three, Team A-Fin-Ity fishing aboard theVintage could hardly keep bait in the water. Catching an incredible 20 white marlin on the final day of the tournament, Team A-Fin-Ity climbed into a tie with Big Oh in the late afternoon. Angler Gray Ingram sealed victory for the Big Oh and his status as top angler with a white marlin twenty minutes before lines out. Ingram’s white was the final 300 of the Big Oh’s astounding 9,900 point performance to take the title. Aside from the great fishing, the tournament was marked by a festive atmosphere, great food, and charity. The tournament generously donated $3,000 to TBF. The Billfish Foundation raffled a TBF signature jacket and a Europa TBF signature watch. Captain Bubba Carter of Tijereta capped a third place finish by winning the raffle. Team Big Oh takes First Place

PANAMA CITY, FL – The Bay Point Invitational Billfish Tournament made a historic change this year, as forty-seven boats headed out to fish in the first major all-release billfish tournament on the Gulf th Coast. The releases were all verified by video before being shared with the crowd of 10,000 attendees 25 Bay Point Invitational on the JumboTron screens. Instead of seeing a big fish hanging on the docks, the audience was able to Billfish Tournament see the anglers in action and watch as these magnificent fish lit up before being safely released to fight another day. Contact: Scott Burt/Chris Miller [email protected] • www.baypointbillfish.com Life is Good took overall honors in the Catch and Release category, releasing three blues and one 2009 Dates: July 15-19 white marlin for a total of 2,050 points. One blue marlin and one sailfish clenched second place for Wynsong, while Jolly-B took third place with one blue marlin (based on time of release.) Wynsong also took first place in the tuna category, with Ms. Mindy taking the dolphin win and Trader’s Hill closing out the Wahoo category.

In addition to the new all-release format, Bay Point made several other well received changes to this year’s event. The Al Hubbard Kids Fishing Experience honored the late local legend and allowed nearly 30 children from local community organizations to spend a day learning to fish on the Gulf – an opportunity they otherwise may never have experienced. Local charter captains donated their boats, time and resources and TBF donated educational materials to make this rewarding experience happen for these grateful kids. The tournament also paid tribute to members of the armed forces by hosting five wounded Iraq War soldiers for a day of Gulf fishing. The soldiers were honored with a standing ovation from the crowd upon their return that evening. Team Life is Good takes first place in the overall Catch & Release Category. Photo courtesy of Allison Yii. TBF congratulates the Bay Point Invitational on their smart & responsible decision to go all-release this year … another example of how good conservation pays!

ROCKPORT, TEXAS – rd Women seeking great fun 3 Annual Babes Offshore and fishing came together Sports Spectacular this past July to fish “The BOSS” –Babes Offshore Contact: Karol Scardino, Tournament Director • 361-729-5353 Sports Spectacular hosted www.fishtheboss.com by the Key Allegro Marina in Rockport, TX. There was plenty of action that this year’s BOSS, including a dedicated mate who went overboard to hang onto a super-sized ling and junior angler Lindsay Casey who was jolted from her sleep by a screaming reel and ended up bringing in a dorado in her pajamas! Lindsey was rewarded for her efforts by winning the junior division of the tournament. The first place team included Jennifer Zovath, Tiera Pennix, Patti Goodson-Rodman and Tara Aquiles aboard the Cat’s Meow. Jennifer Zovath also won the billfish release division.

The only all-ladies offshore tournament in Texas is the brain child of tournament director Karol Beaded tournament competitors show off their catch. Scardino, one of two female members of the Texas Maritime Museum Fishing Hall of Fame Photo courtesy of Diane Lloyd. (the other being former WBS champion Tami Wise Noling who also fished this year’s BOSS). Karol likes to emphasize the importance of encouraging young anglers, noting that, “The junior anglers fishing the tournament are very important, and making sure they get the recognition that they deserve is my main concern.” Karol went on to add, “It is our junior anglers who will be fishing and organizing the tournaments in the future so we need to keep them excited”. The BOSS also did their part to encourage billfish conservation by presenting every tournament participant with a TBF membership and hosting a silent auction to benefit TBF. 38 Club Nautico de San Juan 55th International Billfish Tournament

www.sanjuaninternational.com • 787-722-0177

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO – The 55th Club Nautico de San Juan International Billfish Tournament was again an exceptional all-release event! Commodore Ralph “Agie” Vicente and Tournament Director Gonzalo M. Ferrer did a first-class job in orchestrating a huge team of active Club members to masterfully produce a full week of activities. This year was the first for the tournament to go to an invitational format and one not paying large cash prizes for fear it could miss-direct the primary purpose of the longstanding event. The Club’s goal is to best insure the event retains its prestige, conservation ethic and good sportsmanship first and foremost. Twelve participating nations, 51 boats, 192 anglers and at least 200 family and friends rounded out the guest list! TBF was proud to be part of the event and to honor the Club and “And they’re off” in a beautiful bimini start to the 55th IBT tournament that played a major part in establishing TBF with the late Win Rockefeller twenty 22 years ago.

The in-water activities began with a boat parade on Sunday night, which was won by Gaviota, owned by Jose Vizcarrondo, whose crew sported the TBF logo with Catch & Release on neon yellow shirts. The colorful flag ceremony demonstrated the prestige and international diversity of the wonderful event. The evening’s dinner at the Club was an elegant affair. The next day the excitement began with a breathtaking bimini start marked by a flare shot launched at the inlet adjacent to historic and picture perfect El Morro Castle.

Mari Ferrer led the Club’s ladies in orchestrating and producing a week-long schedule of fun TBF president Ellen Peel presents Circle Hook trophy to activities, which included shopping in historic old San Juan, a fashion show, a tour of homes and beach Rene Ramirez, along with Frankie Mirandes, Tournament party at Dorado Beach. The tournament team, led by Marely Gutierrez, provided deft organization co-chairman (left), and Gonzalo M. Ferrer, Tournament and “made the seemingly impossible, possible”. Mark Smestad again served as the Tournament Director (right). Photographer superbly capturing all the “land-based” activities while Scott Kerrigan documented the action “on the boats”.

The Awards Ceremony was second to none, with elegant decorations and fine dining. Top Boat trophy went to The Pink Lady, owned by Albert Gual. Rene Ramirez won Top Angler. Team USA-02 won Top International Team comprised of Robert Browning, Tony Carizosa and Bob Hixson. Team San Juan Bay Marina with the team comprised of Caludia Ferrer, Luis Umpierre and Luis Perez Gonzalez, won the Top Interclub Team award. Jose “Pepe” Anton, a TBF Board Member, won Top International Angler. TBF presented a fabulous Ed Pang Ancient Circle Hook sculpted trophy to Ariel Correa for winning the Top Tagging Captain. A second Pang sculptured trophy was presented by TBF to Rene Ramirez for winning the Top Tagging Angler award. There TBF board members Agie Vicente and Pepe Anton. were three visiting boats this year, Pepe Anton’s Marita from Ecuador, Robert Browning’s Mr. Photos courtesy of Mark Smestad. B. II, and Game On, owned by Bob Hixson.

TBF representative Dr. Gail Kay and President Ellen Peel held a small raffle and sold merchandise to raise funds. The winner of the raffle had a choice of several pieces of jewelry. Charlie Forman was the winner, his beautiful wife, Sue, immediately selected a blue topaz ring as their prize.

ISLAMORADA, FLORIDA -- The 2008 Florida Swordfish Series commenced August 15 with the Islamorada Swordfish Tournament. Participants in the IST, out of Islamorada Swordfish Tournament Holiday Isle Marina, endured some rough weather on their way to releasing a total of 11 broadbills. With Tropical Storm Fay bearing down on the Keys and a mandatory www.miamiswordfishtournament.com • 305-282-1006 evacuation of all non-residents, weather cancelled the final night of fishing and the awards ceremony. The first night of fishing witnessed seven swords released. The second night was highlighted by Captain Ricky Linder’s release of three swordfish aboard the Jichi. The Florida Swordfish Series stopped next at the Miami Swordfish Tournament, September 11-14.

39 Orange Beach, Alabama - The 11th Annual Orange Beach Billfish Classic, th a great flag bearer for the billfishing community on the Gulf Coast, was an 11 Annual Orange Beach overwhelming success this year. The host and presenting sponsor, The City of Billfish Classic Orange Beach recognizes the importance of sportfishing to their local economy and to the popularity and well being of Alabama’s coastline. Peter B. Wright, world famous fishing expert, who has always been a strong proponent of this www.orangebeachclassic.com • 251-281-3855 tournament and its concept, was on hand to greet and mingle with participants and their guests.

This non-profit billfish release tournament exemplifies excellent stewardship of the resource by donating part of their proceeds to organizations that best represent saltwater and recreational anglers and best fight for the conservation, preservation and enhancement of the saltwater fisheries.

The Orange Beach Billfish Classic gives all of its proceeds to The Billfish Foundation and the Coastal Conservation Association, to date having given well in excess of $550,000.

This year’s tournament, despite a down economy and inclement weather, was attended by over 300 guests and Team C-Ya takes first place in the Tag & Release Division. participants at the Orange Beach Marina facility, one of the premiere bill fishing marina’s on the Gulf Coast.

The festivities began with a Barbeque Social for early arrivals in the garden area of Orange Beach Marina on Wednesday, sponsored by KV Yacht Brokerage and Sterne Agee and followed on Thursday with the Pre- Tournament Gala Dinner, sponsored by Capital One Marine Finance and Davison Fuels featuring an Oyster Bar sponsored by Marine and Industrial Supply and a Martini Bar sponsored by Gulf Coast Hatteras.

Starting with 49 boats, rough weather reduced the field to 28 as the tournament got under way after the Captain’s Meeting on Thursday night. The Awards Brunch, sponsored by Marine Group Emerald Coast, was held on Sunday morning at the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club’s new Billfish Pavilion located at Orange Beach Marina.

First place in the Tag & Release division went to C-Ya with 875 points, while High C’s took second with 750 points and Cocoon finished third with 350 points. Aerial view of the Orange Beach Marina.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – One of the oldest billfish tournaments on the Gulf Coast is the Pensacola Big Game Fishing Club’s (PBGFC) International Billfish Tournament held Pensacola Big Game Fishing Club’s 38th each year over the Fourth of July holiday. International Billfish Tournament Club President Doug Quigley, Tournament Director Frank Fabre, and Dock Master Chuck Haskell, along with their team, produced another top-notch event. www.pbgfc.com. • 850-453-4638 Ron Thomas served as the emcee at the scales, a job he first mastered back in the 1970s in some of the earliest of the tournaments. This year’s tournament festivities were launched at the New World Landing in downtown Pensacola where the captains’ meeting and dinner were held. Fifty-nine boats participated in the tournament. This year the tournament’s daily activities returned to one of its earliest sites, downtown Pensacola at the Plaza De Luna Park, a beautiful park overlooking Pensacola Bay. This location proved to be an exceptional viewing area for the Fourth of July fireworks. Intermittent rain showers didn’t dampen the spirits of the tournament participants and guests.

There were 13 billfish released during the tournament with the winning Release Team award going to Born 2 Run, owned by Dana Foster, and team members Kyle Avenarius (one tagged blue), April Woodall (one tagged white), Tod Ioakim and Lisa Foster, along with Captain Sean Garrision and Mate Jonathon Woodall.

A TBF Founding Member, the PBGFC has remained a steadfast supporter over the years. The Club donated $5,000 to TBF from this year’s event! Thank you PBGFC!

11th Annual Texas Women’s Angler Tournament Contact: Sharon Miller, Tournament Director 361-960-1362

PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS – Don’t let the quaint fishing village setting fool you. The women who participate in the ladies-only Texas Women’s Angler Tournament are there for some irreverent fun and powerhouse billfishing. This year’s tournament was true to form with a total of 11 sailfish, 2 blue marlins, and 2 white marlins caught and released in the friendly competition. A total of 69 boats competed. In the spirit of conservation and helping to preserve our billfish population, this tournament is tag and release only.

The Overall Trophy went to Ginny Jay with team members Marlive Fitzpatrick, Veta Skogland and Virginia Moser. Gayle Krejci aboard Mattiduke took first place in the White Marlin division and Marlive Fitzpatrick aboard the Ginny Jay claimed first place in the Blue Marlin division.

40 PORT ARANSAS, TX – The 10th Annual Texas Legends Billfish Tournament held in Port Aransas, Texas was hailed as a huge success by tournament directors Bobby Byrd and 10th Annual Texas Legends Billfish John Cochrane. The event, which ran from August 7-10, boasted 69 boats fishing for over $746,000 in total prize money. They are also pleased to report that this year, all Tournament marlin and sailfish were released. The big winner with one blue marlin and two white Contact: John Cochrane • 280-474-0000 marlin releases bringing in more than $275,000 in prize money was the Akela, owned by www.txlegends.com Ed Bass.

When Byrd and Cochrane founded the Legends 10 years ago, their goal was to “honor old friends, catch some great fish and celebrate our big game heritage.” The top boat each year receives a trophy honoring Bobby Byrd’s father, Bob Byrd Sr. Bobby is proud to explain that Byrd Sr. “was one of the pioneers of billfishing off the Texas coast in the early 1960’s”.

The Legends Tournament structures their point system in such a way as to promote the release of blue marlin, white marlin and sailfish. They also showed the Texas spirit of gen- erosity by donating $1,000 to The Billfish Foundation

Team AKELA hauls in over $275,000 as first place winner.

MANTEO, NC – In its 25th anniversary year, the Pirate’s Cove Billfish Tournament th (PCBT) was another great success. Ninety-nine boats participated in this year’s 25 Annual Pirate’s Cove Billfish event, fishing from August 12-15th. At the end of the week, 103 fish had been re- Tournament leased: 59 white marlin, 23 blue marlin, 20 sailfish and even a spearfish.

Contact: Harry R. Hindmarsh • [email protected] One fish was brought to the docks during the week, a new North Carolina State www.pcbiggame.com Record Blue Marlin. Weighing in at 1,228.50 pounds, she clenched the win for Mimi owner and angler Trey Irvine of Weston, Florida. Luckily, TBF Chair Joan Vernon was on hand to make sure that the big blue was not taken in vain, arranging for parts of the fish to be harvested for scientific study.

Team Mimi took first place overall with Captain Mike King, Irvine, Bobby Popeic, and Paul and Cliff Spencer, pocketing nearly $500,000 in winnings. Second place went to team Ohana, captained by Edwin Wheeler with owner/angler Edward Burr and anglers Austin Burr, Hunter Brant and Dennis Rosa. Third place (based on time) was rounded out by team Bi-Op-Sea, captained by Jesse Granitzki with owner/angler Dell Demboski and anglers Jason Ward, Daniel Davis and Brian Brumfield. TBF Member Diane Locke won the Top Lady Angler category.

On Wednesday evening, the tournament presented “TBF Night.” Dr. Eric Prince of the National Marine Fisheries Service joined the TBF Team to report to tournament participants and sponsors the results of the PSAT tagging study that was conducted off the coasts of North Carolina and Maryland in the fall of 2007. Everyone really enjoyed learning about the exciting new insights into the movement of white marlin. Team Mimi takes first place in the 25th Annual Pirate’s Cove Billfish Tournament.

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – In spite of some windy weather, the 2008 Virginia Beach Billfish Tournament (VBBT) was a success. Over three days of fishing, the 67 th tournament boats caught and released 96 billfish, including three blue marlin. In 5 Annual Virginia Beach Billfish addition to the $355,000 awarded in prize money, the VBBT raised a substantial Tournament amount of money for its charities, including TBF. Donations to Paula Owen, Tournament Director • [email protected] www.vbbt.com the auction included signed guitars by the likes of Elvis Costello and Brad Paisley, original artwork by renowned marine artist Steve Goione, and an amethyst ring by jeweler David Yurman. In addition to the fishing action, tournament director Paula Owen orchestrated an entertaining atmosphere highlighted by live music and great food – including local sea food and a pig picking. Top Boat honors, and $141,500, were awarded to the crew of the Swordfish, a 53’ Sullivan captained by Justin Ringer. The Swordfish, with an impressive 420 release points, edged out Triflin directed by Captain David Peck on the basis of time of catch. Taking third place honors, with a special thanks from TBF for carrying boxes of merchandise from Pirate’s Cove to the VBBT, was Captain Bull Tolson aboard the Sea Toy. Congratulations to all the winners, TBF is already looking forward to the 2009 Virginia Beach Billfish Tournament. Crew of Swordfish celebrates Top Boat honors. Photo courtesy of Sean Smith

41 Captain’s Corner

TBF and Captain DiGiulian

Take Conservation Message to proper methods and techniques to safely tag and release both blue Northeast Tourney and white marlin. Anglers in the Long Island area have noticed an increase in the number of white marlin spotted on a daily basis and Hampton Bays, Long Island - TBF hopes to get a good number of these fish tagged during the In an effort to reach out to the 2009 season. sportfishing community of the Northeast U.S.,TBF sent Captain In addition to the tagging kits, TBF, along with Stalker Outfitters, Tony DiGiulian to attend the will be hosting a billfish workshop in late February on the Island. opening weekend of the 8th annual The workshop will include discussions on rigging with circle hooks, Hamptons Offshore Invitational. kite fishing, live baiting and the proper way to tag and revive billfish. The tournament was held August At next year’s tournament, TBF will sponsor a tag-and-release 15-24 out of Shinnecock Inlet trophy and award. In addition to being involved with the “Offshore in Long Island, New York. With Invitational”, TBF will also work with Amy Kazdin to introduce youth 72 boats entered in this year’s education materials and plan activities with local schools. Amy tournament, the Hamptons Kazdin will assist in this important endeavor. Amy, a grade school Invitational has become one of the most prestigious tournaments teacher, is an avid angler and a board member of the Shinnecock on the East Coast. The event culminated with an awards dinner at Marlin & Tuna Club. Oakland’s restaurant in Hampton Bays, with over 650 tournament entrants, supporters and guests in attendance. This year’s TBF and Captain Tony DiGiulian thanks Scott Horowitz and tournament was the most successful yet. the entire Shinnecock Marlin & Tuna Club for their generous hospitality in helping TBF advance its goals. Special thanks goes to TBF is committed to increasing the number of tagged marlin in the Hank Altenkirch and his company “Altenkirch Precision Outfitters” Northeast and will be working with both the Hamptons Invitational for sponsoring Captain DiGiulian’s room and board while he was in and the Shinnecock Marlin & Tuna Club in 2009. Starting next Long Island and for his generous donation of custom-built rods for year, TBF will donate some tagging kits and information on the TBF’s Frightful Fete on October 31.

Future Anglers

Welcome Brody Levin! Welcome Darren On March 11th, Scott & Kristy Geoffrey Philipps! Levin welcomed a new addition On July 31st, Brad & Cindy to their family, Brody Levin. With Philipps of the Decisive in such great fishing genes, we are Guatemala welcomed their sure that Brody will be ready for first son, Darren Geoffrey Philipps. Brad says Darren a rod in no time! will be sticking to lighter tackle for now, but can’t wait to Congratulations Scott & Kristy! start fishing with us! Congratulations Brad & Cindy!

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