If you’re interested in fishing, then you want to keep fish populations healthy. Try joining a conservation-minded fishing organization. Consider it selfless self-interest. Here are a few groups protecting some of our favorite fishing species:
International Game Fish Association: www.igfa.org It used to be all about setting records, but now the IGFA is one of the leading promoters of catch-and-release and conservation. It adheres to strict rules for ethical tackle use as well as for the proper handling of fish.
Bonefish and Tarpon Trust: www.tarbone.org Formerly called Bonefish and Tarpon Unlimited, the organization nicknamed Tarbone leads the way in funding crucial scientific research into the life cycles and sustainability of the world’s favorite shallow-water game fish. Tarbone works to promote catch-and-release fishing of tarpon, bonefish, and permit on a local, national, and international level.
Stripers Forever: www.stripersforever.org From the organization’s Web site: “Stripers Forever is a 100% volunteer Internet-based organization with only one purpose, which is to enhance public fishing for striped bass by making the striped bass a game fish and ending commercial exploitation of this vital recreational species.”
The Billfish Foundation: www.billfish.org The Billfish Foundation works with countries to create conservation plans and to stop the high rate of billfish mortality due to commercial by-catch.
NOTE: Want to see an IGFA tag and release tournament in action? Watch our shark tournament footage from the flying bridge on our Youtube channel. Go to: www.youtube.com/user/BoatingMagazine
