Keeping anglers in line

SERIOUS money is at stake in offshore billfish tournaments -- entry fees at big-name events run $5,000 per boat and up, and prizes can top $500,000, with a million-dollar bonus for a world record fish. That’s reason enough to have trained observers during competitions that know a striped from a blue marlin. It can also be fun for the observers, if they consider fishing a spectator sport and aren’t prone to seasickness. Honesty is important too. Ken Kelley of Laguna Beach volunteered at several tournaments, most recently in Costa Rica. He says many observers are former experienced tournament anglers who want to promote catch-and-release fishing and give something back to the sport. He doesn’t mind just watching. “I’ve caught so many fish it’s not important,” he says. “I like to be there to see the action.” The International Game Fish Assn., which officially confirms fishing records and sets rules for big-game fishing, trains and tests volunteers to help keep tournaments fair and prevent disputes. Lynda Wilson, international program coordinator for the IGFA, says anglers feel better knowing everyone’s on the same playing field. The IGFA will train observers in species identification, fishing rules and regulations and safety at a one-day class and certification test at the Newport Beach Yacht Club on Aug. 28. Cost is $125, which includes a year’s membership in the IGFA. For more information go to www.igfa.org/co.asp. Classes are on land. Dramamine not required.

-- Bill Becher