2014 Volume 1
T h e B i l l f i s h F o u n d at i o n ’ s S p o r t f i s h i n g C o n s e r vat i o n M a g a z i n e
Fish Track
Satellite Imagery for Dummies
Le Cirque Gala “The Old Man and the Sea”
Expedition Recap
TBF Destination: Bermuda A Tribute to Dr. Russell Nelson Sportfishing in the Northern Gulf
. . .F ish F orever
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On the cover
Tony Ludovico, the 2014 TBF Artist of the Year, captured this amazing image of a sailfish slashing through a bait ball. Tony’s work is world-famous as he strives to capture the underwater environment and its inhabitants without the use of scuba gear.
In this issue
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Le Cirque, TBF’s 27th Annual Gala Fundraiser. This annual event was once again a hit with the attendees, and honored the Rybovich Lifetime Conservation Award recipients. Dedication: Russell Nelson. A tribute to an outstanding TBF team member.
TBF Team Ellen Peel President Elizabeth Black Management Assistant Peter Chaibongsai Director of Science & Education
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Fishing the Rigs: Finding Success in the Northern Gulf. Tips and tactics to make your next offshore trip a great one.
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The Old Man and the Sea Expedition. A team of adventure-loving Swedes set out to catch a marlin fishing solo from a kayak.
Deborah Cummings Membership Manager
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TBF Destination: Bermuda. An idyllic location with outstanding fishing, Bermuda should be on any angler’s bucket list.
Robert Jones Chief Operating Officer
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Artist’s Profile: Tony Ludovico. 2014 TBF Artist of the Year.
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Decoding the Mystery. Learn to get more from satellite imagery from the experts at FishTrack.com.
Andrew Cox Advocacy & Science Specialist
Michael Kelly Advocacy & Science Associate
Dr. C. Phillip Goodyear Scientist Herbert Nanne Conservation Director, Central America
Departments 4 Chairman’s Message
32 Science
6 Meet the Interns
37 Conservation Ambassador’s Message
21 TBF News
38 On the Docks
28 Education
44 Anglers We Will Miss
31 Advocacy
46 Calendar
To advertise in Billfish, please send inquiries to Robert_Jones@billfish.org Billfish is owned and operated by The Billfish Foundation. All rights reserved. Copyright 2014. Printed in the USA.
Sam White Editor Jackie Marsolais Graphic Designer 5100 N. Federal Hwy. #200 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 800-438-8247 www.Billfish.org
chairman’s message
TBF Trustees Chairman Charles “Fin” Gaddy Vice Chair John P. “Jack” Duvall Treasurer Scott Cooper - OBBC Secretary Joan Vernon Luis L. Bacardi John Brownlee Gary J. Chouest Bennett Long- MBGFC Keith English Chris Fischer Bill Gooch Norm Isaccs Elaine “Lainey” Jones Sandra MacMillan Mark O’Brien Chase Offield Tim Simpson emeritus Francisco Rangel Castelazo Paxson Offield Don Tyson Ralph “Agie” Vicente Jack Willits Founding Chairman Winthrop P. Rockefeller 1948-2006 President Ellen M. Peel, J.D. LL.M.
Dear TBF Members, I am truly honored and thankful for the opportunity to be named Chairman of The Billfish Foundation’s Board of Directors. Being part of this organization gives me confidence that we will continue to make positive and long-lasting impacts for billfish and the sportfishing industry in general. As the father of twin five-year-old boys, Charles and Brown, I am reminded every day of our need to fish responsibly so that our marine resources are available for our children and grandchildren. While my sons are far too young to understand the threats facing billfish populations and fishing opportunities today, one day they will thank us all for our conservation achievements.
Last summer I was able to take them out for their first billfishing trip during which they tagged and released nine white marlin. Watching the excitement on their faces as they fought the marlin from the fighting chair reminded me of the day in 1983 when I caught my first billfish with my father off North Carolina. We deeply cherish moments like these and must insure that they remain available for future generations. As the owner/operator of the charter boat Qualifier out of the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, I am on the water more than 150 days a year and have seen how the health of fish stocks and management decisions directly impact sportfishing-related businesses. I have witnessed the evolution of the circle hook and remember well the days of j-hooks and gut-hooked billfish. It would be hard to convince me that the recent record catches of sailfish and white marlin off the East Coast of the U.S. are not a direct result of increased circle hook use—the conservation benefits are undeniable. But pending management decisions also bring real threats to recreational sportfishing. These threats include the possible reopening of previously closed zones off South Carolina, Florida’s East Coast, and the Gulf of Mexico to longline fishing as well as attempts to get white marlin listed under the Endangered Species Act. There’s also a continued push by extreme environmental groups to have governments establish massive closed zones that would prohibit all fishing efforts. It is important to remember that the billfish in your back yard today will very well be in someone else’s by tomorrow— decisions made in one place have rippling impacts elsewhere. It is imperative that we look ahead and make decisions that will benefit our children’s children. Your TBF membership contributions give us the ability to fight these current threats. Our victories will insure future sportfishing opportunities remain available for our children, their children and all who wish to fish with them. This is a sportfishing conservation legacy worth achieving. Please join the TBF team and be part of this legacy. Only with your ongoing support can we can continue fighting for our mutual sportfishing interests.
TBF achieves successes worldwide to advance the conservation of billfish and associated species, to improve the status of the fish, the health of the oceans, fishing opportunities and related economies.
4 | The Billfish Foundation
Best fishing and tight lines, Capt. Fin Gaddy Chairman of the Board
TBF News
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5 | The Billfish Foundation
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Meet the TBF
Interns, Volunteers and New Staff The Billfish Foundation is proud to announce the new Winthrop P. Rockefeller Student Ocean Program Interns for Spring 2014. This initiative advances Win’s vision of responsible ocean and fish stewardship by providing valuable work experience to selected students. Please welcome the new Winthrop P. Rockefeller Student Ocean Program Interns. Dan DiNicola is a Master’s Candidate at the University of Miami, FL studying Marine Affairs and Policy. Dan works in our Education and Outreach Division, developing new outreach tools for the sportfishing industry. Andrew Blitman is a Master’s Candidate at the University of Miami, FL studying Marine Conservation. Andrew works in our Science and Policy Division, assisting on TBF’s Caribbean Campaign by examining various highly migratory species policies in several Caribbean nations. Roxane De Waegh is a Master’s Candidate at the University of Miami, FL studying Marine Affairs and Policy. Roxane works in our Science and Policy Division, assisting on TBF’s Caribbean Campaign by gathering vital socio-economic data on the sportfishing community in the region.
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2013 Volume
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Elizabeth (Beth) Black joins the TBF team as management assistant. Born and raised in South Florida, her strong interest in marine science and conservation grew when she enrolled in marine science magnet programs in both middle and high school and interned with the IGFA and the American Yacht Institute. Her business and marketing studies at Florida International University readied her for her professional career in marketing, both online and traditional, as well as public relations, creative design, writing and event coordination. Skilled at producing compelling website content and social media sites, Beth immersed herself in the fast-paced technological world while building successful client relationships within the marine community and industry. Beth serves as management assistant to TBF President Ellen Peel, with whom she cultivates strong development, marketing and constituent networks, and also assists with the organization’s program and operational needs.
Visit TBF’s social media sites!
2013 Volume 1
1 2013 Volume
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The Billfish Foundation is also proud to recognize one of our summer volunteers, Brantlee de Brux. She spent the summer tournament season attending several legs of the South Carolina Governor’s Cup Billfishing Series on behalf of TBF, including the Bohicket Marina Invitational, Carolina Billfish Classic, and MegaDock tournaments. We appreciate her hard work and enthusiasm on behalf of The Billfish Foundation.
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Be Part of the Winning Team! If your company would like to be part of a worthy organization, email Robert_Jones@billfish.org for a media kit or call (954) 938-0150 x 113 for more information, today! 6 | The Billfish Foundation
www.Billfish.org
Le Cirque
TBF’s 27th Annual Gala Fundraiser
Maumus Claverie, Jr.
Captain Ron Hamlin
The Billfish Foundation’s Le Cirque evening, held on November 1, 2013, raised funds in style for billfish conservation. Honorary event CoChairs Sandra MacMillan, outgoing TBF board chairwoman and Charles “Fin” Gaddy, incoming board chairman, and President Ellen Peel welcomed over 350 guests. LA Cat, Louisiana’s statewide Cat equipment dealer, once again came on board as the event’s top sponsor. With their support for billfish conservation and that of other corporations guests enjoyed an elegant evening. Guests were first met outside with two exciting automobiles the Rum Bum Racing Team’s fast and wildly designed Porsche, that just won its second year championship, and two elegant JM Lexus vehicles, beautifully designed with all the bells and whistles. With a turn to the bar, Bacardi once again filled glasses with guests’ top shelf libations. C&L Insurance’s presence demonstrated its commitment to the sportfishing and boating community. DragonFly BoatWorks gave guests a show of its top quality and uniquely styled paddle boards rigged to fish and sporting the TBF logo. No wonder Jimmy Buffet chose a DragonFly! Sponsorship from InComm, the pre-paid card giant,
Eddie Smith, Jr.
provided new options for TBF. And lastly, but not least, sponsor The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama offers Auburn and University of Alabama fans one thing they can agree on – a great marina, dining and party complex. Join TBF there and fish the OBBC tournament in May. Guests, who represented many fishing clubs and tournaments, fishing magazines, observers, charter fleets, resorts, artists, captains, mates, anglers and business leaders, moved quickly to bid on creative, upscale and unique items in the silent auction. The evening was brought together handsomely by the talents of Robert Stanfield, party planner and full-service event coordinator of Boca Raton. Ringmaster, Tony DiGiulian, kept the live auction of fantastic items and trips moving. The evening was topped off with music from the Chase Band, hottest in South Florida, and performances by the Le Cirque performers. TBF presented its Rybovich Lifetime Conservation Award during the event to three outstanding guests including Maumus Claverie, Jr. from New Orleans and the New Orleans Big Game Fishing Club, Captain Ron Hamlin, the famous captain who fished for years in Guatemala, now living in Florida and a member of the West Palm Beach Sportfishing Club, and Eddie Smith, CEO of Grady White Boats in North Carolina. Billfish tournaments, fishing clubs and corporations then honored TBF by presenting checks of support. TBF thanks all sponsors and asks members of our fishing community to support their businesses.
Captain Russell Kleppinger
John Brownlee
Bimini Twist
Hurricane Sport Properties
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 9
12 | The Billfish Foundation
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 12
Dedication:Russell Nelson Dr. Russell Nelson, a nationally acclaimed scientist who served as The Billfish Foundation’s Chief Scientist for the past 12 years, passed away unexpectedly on October 5, 2013. Nelson earned his undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina, before earning a Ph.D. in zoology, fisheries ecology and statistics from North Carolina State University. While serving as Director of the Florida Marine Fisheries Commission (MFC) he established a solid record of success for the marine resources off Florida’s shores. Former MFC assistant executive director Roy Williams said, “He was well-educated; he was one of those guys, like Einstein, who had pathways through the brain the rest of us didn’t have. He was a good scientist but he also had pretty good political insight. Most of the issues we dealt with were tough, because you had to say ‘No’ to somebody. He was good because he could balance the science and the politics.” TBF board member John Brownlee added, “Russ had the ability, more than any of us, to see those unintended consequences in fisheries management.” He took complex issues and explained them so average people could understand them. As director of the MFC, Nelson was responsible for many controversial size and bag limits on popular species including red snapper, grouper, kingfish and red drum, some of which remain in place today, 26 years later. He guided Florida’s contentious transition after passage of the 1994 net ban, which imposed limits on the nets used by commercial fishermen. He served for 14 years as a member of both the U.S. South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Councils that managed fish beyond state waters with their respective regions. In 2001 Russell moved to South Florida, began his own consulting firm and joined the TBF team. He served on international negotiating delegations for the United States in both the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean. The President of Peru invited him to draft measures for the nation to manage black marlin as a game fish. In Mexico, Costa Rica and Panama he spearheaded the development of three socio-economic studies that documented the value of sportfishing tourism, thus making clear why conserving billfish and other species made strong economic sense to the participating nations. He was leading a Caribbean campaign for TBF and was asked by the World Bank and the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization to broaden the work to include the whole region and additional issues. He was also passionate about his family: wife and TBF President Ellen Peel, his mother Ruth Nelson, daughters Rebecca and Kate, brothers Randall and Raymond, and sister and brotherin-law Barbara and Gary Vetter, along with three nephews, their families and his beloved Doberman, Mia. Nelson also liked to stir things up a bit, as there was nothing traditional or boring with him. He lived life with genuine gusto. A great void now exists both in his family and in the fishery science and management world, though he left plenty of fun memories and excellent marine conservation successes from which all can draw for comfort and wisdom. Captain Bouncer Smith summed it up nicely when he said, “Russell was a visionary. We will never fish without him because Dr. Nelson formed the fishing that we have today as well as the fishing that we’ll have in the future.” The world is a lesser place without him, and so this issue of BILLFISH magazine is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Russell Nelson. Editor’s Note: Dr. Russell Nelson will be posthumously inducted into the Miami International Boat Show Big Game Room’s Hall of Fame in February, 2014. Donations to TBF’s worldwide conservation work may be made in Dr. Nelson’s memory.
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 13
Fishing the Rigs: Finding Success in the Northern Gulf Photo by Travis Dorland
The Northern Gulf of Mexico offers some of the most diverse fishing found anywhere, but newcomers may find it overwhelming. Three tips shared below can help make your next trip a success. The region includes a broad swath from west of the Florida Panhandle through Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, where thousands of oil and natural gas platforms dot the surface. These range in size from small, single-post units to the size of a small garden shed to huge interconnected structures hundreds of yards long and several hundred feet high. Think of an oil rig as an artificial reef, except these run from the sea floor all the way to the surface (at least the shallower ones do—the deepwater rigs float on the surface and are anchored in place with enormous cables). The top-to-bottom structure attracts baitfish to the shade and shelter, which supports the great fishing in the region and acts as a bait factory for the rest of the Gulf. Any fisherman worth their salt will explain, “Find the bait and you’ll find the fish.”
14 | The Billfish Foundation
Tip 1: Fish Fast, Then Slow With the thousands of rigs and platforms in the Gulf, one wonders where to start. Take a look at two factors—water depth contours and sea surface temperatures—and overlay these with a chart showing the rig locations (sometimes called a block chart). This combination should point you in the right direction. As with any other fish, the offshore highly migratory fish (pelagics) orient themselves to favorable conditions of water temperature, water depth and absence or presence of baitfish. Even with abundant baitfish many top billfish teams in the Gulf start trolling with a spread of artificial lures, which allows for cruising at higher speeds than with natural bait. Lure fishing works for finding schools of big yellowfin tuna, large mahi-mahi and wahoo; but with wahoo it helps to pull one line deeper with a trolling sinker or planer.
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 14
or alive.) Live baiting with small tunas, bonito, blue and rainbow runners, bridled through the nose with an appropriate sized circle hook, and slowing the boat to a crawl often produces more interest to marlin and tuna than the smorgasbord of bait in the water. Now hang on.
Tip 2: Work the Entire Water Column
Victoria Savage, Age 14, aboard Una Mas, 46 Viking Express. Boat Owners Jacque Kuchta and David Branton. Photo by Jacque Kuchta After finding good-looking water and conditions, slow down. Natural dead baits like ballyhoo work well, but live-baiting often produces larger fish, hence its use by many top Gulf tournament teams. (Remember: when fishing a tournament that includes Atlantic billfish, anglers must use circle hooks with all natural baits – dead
Because many rigs stretch their giant metal legs completely through the water column, from the sunlit surface to the mid- and deepwater environs, fish from top to bottom. Don’t pull up to a rig, make three or four trolling passes and depart for greener pastures; the fish may be holding deep. Changing gear and target species often results in big dividends from other species, like red snapper, cobia and amberjack. Many times, yellowfin and blackfin tuna remain well below the surface, especially in the summer, coming to feed at the surface only after the sun sets. A hefty spinning rod with a big bucktail jig or lively hardtail can produce
trophy tuna or snapper. Knife jigs sink fast and offer a fish-attracting flash when jigged on the retrieve thus producing their own rewards. Depending on the water depth, a drop to the bottom often produces several species of tasty grouper; working down into the depths increases your chances of scoring. Also remember
( Gulf Rigs continues on page 34) Dan Miller and Angler Wayne Kilborn
Port Eads Reopens in the Gulf In 1831 Congress appropriated $40,000 to build two lighthouses to mark two passes 100 miles south of New Orleans. South Pass, one of the two passes, is located only 5 miles from the Continental Shelf and is also the closest property to the 100 fathom curve. The South Pass lighthouse located at Port Eads, Louisiana sits on a spit of land where the Mississippi River meets the Gulf of Mexico. That site was named in honor of James Buchanan Eads, who in 1878 built experimental wooden jetties that deepened the channel at South Pass, allowing navigation to New Orleans to significantly increase. Port Eads marina included a club house where for over forty years the New Orleans Big Game Fishing Club hosted tournaments known for big marlin and a strong commitment to catch and release fishing. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina destroyed all the facilities. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds following Hurricane Katrina made possible the rebuilding of Port Eads marina. The facility opens over the 2014 Memorial Day weekend, and is part of the Port Eads Fishing Refuge, a non-profit organization, under the oversight of a Board of Directors of Plaquemines Parish Council. Billy Nungesser, President of Plaquemines Parish hopes the new self-contained facility with water, sewage, fuel, bait and food venders attracts a lot of tourist dollars to the Parish. The first New Orleans Big Game Fishing Tournament at the new facility starts June 12, 2014.
Victoria Savage onboard at the new Port Eads facility.
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 15
The Old Man and the Sea Revisited Swedish Anglers Put Modern Spin on an Old Classic
Photography courtesy of Martin Falklind and Pasi Helin
the small boat from which he fished alone, unassisted by captains or mates. With a loaned kayak and the help of friends Pasi Helin and Fredrick Moller, the trio got to work on what would eventually become The Old Man and the Sea: The Expedition.
Enthralled with the writings of Ernest Hemingway as a young boy growing up in Sweden, Martin Falklind especially enjoyed The Old Man and the Sea. The 1951 Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winning novella described the tale of an old Cuban fisherman battling a huge marlin alone from a small boat. For years the Old Man’s adventure lay far below the surface of Falklind’s subconscious, but as he became older, it resurfaced with a vengeance. At the heart of it all: to catch a fish larger than
Falklind training in lake in Sweden.
Choosing a target species and location became the first priorities. Blue and black marlin exceeded a safe size to target from the small kayak, but striped marlin offered a perfect quarry. Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas offered a perfect destination for the adventure with a short run to the fishing grounds and sunny, calm seas. Practice became the second priority since none of the team had experienced marlin fishing, much less from a small kayak. A friend worked with them on a nearby lake in Sweden pulling their kayak with an outboard-powered boat to simulate the speed and rapid direction changes often encountered with a real marlin. The trio also worked with weights and spent
time building the endurance needed for such a fight. They rigged the kayak with numerous waterproof video cameras and with a professional videographer on the charterboat they captured footage for a full-length documentary. Before leaving for Cabo, Falklind asked TBF for more information on tagging and releasing billfish, something he planned for any marlin he caught. TBF’s chief scientist Dr. Russell Nelson then began working with the team on their tagging and conservation message. Time for action. Each day in Cabo San Lucas with the kayak loaded aboard a local charter vessel they made the short ride to the fishing grounds. Each angler took shifts in the smaller craft, soaking a live bait in hopes of attracting a striped marlin. Unfortunately, the first trip coincided with a “La Nina” event that brought in much cooler water and made marlin scarce. They returned home to Sweden without even a strike, feeling much like Hemingway’s old
caught and released their marlin leaving Falklind wondering if he too was cursed as was thought about Santiago. Finally, his hour came, he was hooked up and while cranking furiously, the marlin took him for a ride. In the end, he brought the fish alongside the kayak and contrary to Santiago, tagged and released it. Tears of joy followed. Once back on shore, TBF’s tag cards were completed and the trio was then off to the bar to celebrate.
Pasi Helin battles a striped marlin from the kayak. fisherman Santiago, who fished over 80 days without a single catch and whom everyone thought was cursed with terrible bad luck. The team returned to Cabo nearly a year later and once again put to sea in hopes of scoring big. What happened next surpassed their wildest dream. Falklind finally was hooked up and in the midst of screaming with joy his fish broke off and everything came to a standstill. The other team members had better luck,
The initial reaction from the fishing community to the entertaining video included tremendous accolades. Tim Simpson, editor and general manager of Bluewater Boats and Sportsfishing magazine, says, “Wow! What a stirring tale. Far more than an exciting fishing film, this is a stirring adventure that grips you by the arm and whisks you around the globe. The Old Man and the Sea: The Expedition is an emotional rollercoaster of hope, frustration, bitter disappointment and, ultimately, elation and the rich glow of achievement–a progression that all determined anglers can relate to. This film gives us all good reason to dream. As counseled by The Billfish Foundation, it clearly demonstrates how an overfished ocean can be transformed through modern sportfishing to create an abundant economy hand-in-hand with a thriving ocean.” Capt. Ron Hamlin echoed those sentiments, saying, “I don’t usually watch fishing films but I just couldn’t take my eyes off the screen. I
Below: Expedition leader Martin Falklind shows off his marlin with TBF tag. Bottom right: The Old Man and the Sea Expedition members Pasi Helin, Fredrik Moller, and Martin Falklind in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
truly enjoyed it and recommend it to everyone, whether you’re a professional or amateur fisherman.” The Old Man and the Sea: The Expedition is available through The Billfish Foundation’s website at www.billfish.org. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to TBF for billfish conservation worldwide. Please support this project, viewing the video guarantees a lot of laughs.
TBF Destination
This idyllic oceanic outpost is home to some of the world’s best billfishing. The island nation of Bermuda, only about 20 square miles in size, conjures many images including the iconic Bermuda shorts still worn with long socks on the island today, its pink sand beaches, few cars and the quaint streets of Hamilton, the capital city. For marlin fishing enthusiasts the best image Bermuda conjures up is one with some of the world’s best blue marlin fishing. Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory located some 650 miles west of North Carolina, was discovered by Spanish sea captain Juan de Bermúdez in 1505 when he claimed the uninhabited shores for the Spanish Empire. While Bermúdez visited the islands at least twice, he never went to shore for fear of damaging his ships on shallow reefs that ring the island. Britain colonized Bermuda in 1612 after a 1609 shipwreck of one of its vessels originally bound for the New World. Bermuda, the oldest and most populous British colony remaining in the world, celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2009.
18 | The Billfish Foundation
The combination of hospitality, secluded location, its natural beauty and gorgeous beaches makes Bermuda one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. The government’s environmental regulations, some dating back to the 1600’s, help explain why the island remains beautiful and inviting. As expected from an island situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, sportfishing provides the irresistible draw for anglers and plays a vital role in the colony’s economy. Bermuda, a well-known hotspot for big blue marlin, including “granders” in excess of a thousand pounds, hosts some of the most popular billfish tournaments each summer. One famous “big marlin” sportfishing captain calling Bermuda home, Captain Alan Card, has won numerous tournaments and has world record marlin in the books. At the helm of his 40-foot Gamefisherman Challenger and with thirty years of experience, Card’s record includes six of the largest blue marlin,
all over 1,1,00 pounds, ever landed from Bermudan waters. He also practices catch and release fishing. Captain Allen DeSilva, a Bermuda native, and also a famous “big marlin” sportfishing captain, runs his custom 57 foot Sonny Briggs. He has compiled a prestigious tournament record with numerous “granders” including the island record of a 1,352 pound blue marlin. He also released Bermuda’s first grander, weighing 1,100 pounds. He is an avid tag and release fisherman, as well. A score of other captains remain ready to put you on the experience of a lifetime with a big blue marlin. Because of the marlin fishing success, especially for large marlin, some very popular billfish tournaments attract tourists each summer and generate significant economic returns to the island’s local economy. In July, the Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish Championship, a high-
profile three consecutive event series draws big boats from the United States. The series kicks off with the Bermuda Billfish Blast, then moves into the Bermuda Big Game Classic and wraps up with the Sea Horse Anglers Club Billfish Tournament. TBF Board Member Lainey Jones fishes her boat Mama Who in the Triple Crown each year and loves fishing and visiting Bermuda. In 2013, Jones’ new boat remained under construction, so she chartered Captain Alan Card. On the second day of competition everything came together when the team caught three blue marlin, which won them the Daily Release Jackpot and third place in the tournament. Such is blue marlin fishing in Bermuda! In addition to blue marlin, plenty of other gamefish species keep visitors wellentertained, especially on the nearby Challenger and Argus Banks, which hold good numbers of yellowfin tuna and wahoo. White marlin also make a seasonal appearance in Bermudan waters. Back on shore, a variety of other pastimes engage visitors, with one of the most popular being golf. Some say more golf courses exist per square mile on Bermuda than anywhere else in the world. The historic buildings in Hamilton, scenic beaches and very green vegetative landscapes keep tourists busy. Some find that a good book and chair on the famed pink sand beaches make the perfect package for rest and relaxation.
While many destinations boast of terrific fishing, few match the balance of attractions and scenery offered tourists found in Bermuda. Consider Bermuda when planning your next vacation getaway.
Bermuda Sportfishing: A Sustainable Future In late October 2013, TBF’s Andrew Cox attended a town hall meeting in Bermuda sponsored by the government’s Sustainable Development Department (SDD) to discuss/consult about the future of Bermuda’s Economic Exclusion Zones (EEZ). Many environmental groups pushed for a no-take marine reserve that would significantly limit recreational fishing opportunities, but a substantial pushback came from members of the recreational fishing community including TBF and other groups who do not want the potential economic developments, including sportfishing in the Bermuda’s offshore waters limited. Following the meeting, TBF’s Cox met with the officials of the SDD, which recently became part of the Cabinet Office, and discussed the rich history and socio-economic importance of sportfishing in Bermuda. He elaborated on the harm that could result if a large no-take marine reserve were established around Bermuda. At press time, the SDD continued preparing a response document to the public comments received during the consultation period. This document will be presented to the Minister for further analysis and implementation. After the public discussion/consultation meeting, one SDD official stated, “In the community, the polarizing groups have been coming together to discuss the topic. We are hearing more support for mixed use.” TBF applauds the means by which the SDD in Bermuda listened to all user groups and members of the general public, as they strive to find the best possible solution for increasing marine protection without significantly limiting access, economic development or sportfishing tourism. To learn more on this important issue, please visit www.billfish.org/advocacy. Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 19
TBF’s 2014 Artist of the Year
TBF proudly selected photographer Tony Ludovico as our 2014 Artist of the Year for his photography which captures the power and beauty of billfish in their underwater habitat. We have chosen one of his most beautiful photos, Surface Tension, as the image for our 2014 membership print. Surface Tension captures a colorful sailfish in action as it rushes in the prey, nearly breaking the surface of the water. Tony, born and raised in upstate New York, moved to Florida with a job on the railroad and soon discovered his passion for the ocean after taking up spear fishing. Wanting to share his underwater experiences with others from a totally unique perspective, Tony developed a system that mounted an underwater video camera on his head, and named it the “Activ-Eye.” After much practice, the television show Reel Adventures hired Tony as its underwater videographer. Videography eventually led Tony to the more permanent art form of still photography. As he puts it, “A video or clip is easily forgotten, but a picture is tangible and remains in the mind.” Tony considers himself an artistic purist, not wishing to alter the behavior or appearance of his
20 | The Billfish Foundation
underwater subjects. He enters the water using only the air in his lungs, eschewing scuba gear and cameras with a flash, prefering to take advantage of natural ambient lighting. Tony blends in with the environment and captures images of sea creatures in their true form, exhibiting their normal behaviors. For many years Tony honed his craft to make his dream come to fruition. His unique photographs have earned accolades from both the art and fishing communities around the world. Fans agree viewing his photographs is like experiencing the pure and unadulterated underwater world, captured one breath at a time. For many years, Tony has worked with TBF generously donating beautiful giclees and photos to help raise funds to benefit billfish conservation. TBF members joining or renewing with a donation of $250 or more will receive an 18x24-inch, personally signed and numbered edition of Tony’s beautiful Surface Tension photo. To learn
more about Tony and share his unique view of the world beneath the waves, check out his website at www.tonyludovico.com.
TBF News
Coastal Longliners Seized in Costa Rica The Costa Rican Coast Guard recently seized four coastal longline vessels fishing illegally with live bait in the nation’s southern waters. Live bait is illegal for use with longlining operations because it significantly increases bycatch of
marlin and sailfish. The action warrants applause because the Coast Guard often fails to enforce such regulations. TBF hopes enforcement continues to increase the effectiveness of this and other regulations.
Possible Permit for World Record Billfish TBF’s Central American Conservation Director Herbert Nanne reports progress in trying to convince Costa Rican government officials to issue permits to anglers wishing to land world record billfish. If the proposed ammendment to the fisheries law, made by the National Sportfishing Commission, on which Nanne serves, is approved and signed by the president, then and only then, can anglers obtain a permit to land a world record size billfish. Currently it remains illegal to land billfish in the nation. The Sportfishing Commission serves a valuable purpose giving voice to anglers where none existed before. TBF’s Nanne recently began a dialogue with officials and anglers to further the National Sportfishing Commission concept throughout Central America. A special thanks to TBF’s Conservation Director, Herbert Nanne, for his ongoing work and efforts in Costa Rica.
Screenshot from the new Tag and Release Database.
Brownlee Named Editor-in-Chief of Marlin Magazine Bonnier Corporation named TBF Board Member John Brownlee as editor-inchief of Marlin, expanding upon his current duties as editor-in-chief of Bonnier’s sister publication, Salt Water Sportsman. In addition to handling all editorial queries for Marlin, Brownlee also assumes the role of content director for Marlin University, the magazine’s highly successful event where editors take readers to the world’s hot fishing spots for one-on-one instructions. “Brownlee is a proven media professional within the boating and fishing community,” said David Ritchie, Chief Content Officer for Bonnier. “As a member of the board of directors of The Billfish Foundation and a regular offshore fishing enthusiast, Brownlee is uniquely qualified to help grow and integrate these amazing brands.” Brownlee has served Bonnier as editor-inchief of Salt Water Sportsman since 2008 and host of Sport Fishing Television since
2012. Dave Ferrell remains Marlin’s editor, providing multichannel content, and serves as the brand ambassador and host for Marlin University.
TBF Introduces New Self Entry Tag and Release Database To gain additional data on the numbers of billfish released around the world, The Billfish Foundation recently unveiled its new online tagging database. One important feature is that “data for released fish not tagged” can be entered as well. Both types of data, billfish that are tagged and released and those released without being tagged, are vitally important and will help researchers and scientists learn more about billfish abundance and recreational fishing efforts around the world. Anglers can enter their own data and have it graphically displayed on charts, among other options. Visit www.tagbillfish.org to learn more about this exciting new project. Full instructions to come next issue.
Casa Vieja Lodge Joins as Tagging Partner
Guatemala’s Casa Vieja Lodge, one of the world’s premier billfishing destinations known for record numbers of sailfish reported every season, recently became a TBF
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C & L Insurance
Marine Insurance since 1991
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TBF News
Orange Beach Billfish Classic Kicks Off Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series
Entrance to CasaVieja’s lodge
Tagging Partner. This means that each of Casa Vieja’s boats (including Merritt, Rybovich and Gamefisherman) will now be fully stocked with TBF tags, so crews can make a concerted effort to tag billfish for their clients. As a program sponsor, Casa Vieja’s logo will be on the TBF Release Certificates and tagging cards and will receive special recognition at the annual awards ceremony. For more information on becoming a program sponsor of TBF, CCA 2014-TBF-Billfish-1/2H:Layout 1 1/16/14 visit www.billfish.org.
P R E S I D E N T I A L
been requesting for some time now-and it’s also a terrific way to start the tournament season here in the Gulf of Mexico. We’re very excited to have them join the Gulf Coast Triple Crown in 2014.”
Marlin tournament season in the Gulf of Mexico means big fish and big bucks as well as a serious adrenaline rush. Nowhere is that feeling more apparent than in the extremely popular Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series, consisting of five high-profile tournaments in the Gulf of Mexico. The Triple Crown expands once again in 2014, with the first tournament of the season in the always-popular Orange Beach Billfish Classic. It’s an exciting turn of events for the tournament, which changed both its dates and venue in 2013. According to tournament coordinator Scott Burt, “It’s a great fit for the Triple 5:55 Page 3 that our anglers have CrownPM series - one
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The Orange Beach Billfish Classic will take place May 14-18, 2014 at The Wharf Entertainment Complex in Orange Beach, Alabama. The OBBC has quickly become a top event on the Gulf Coast and serves as an important fundraiser for The Billfish Foundation and the Coastal Conservation Association. Since its inception, the event has contributed over $500,000 for conservation efforts to these two organizations. “We’ve managed to do quite a bit to support marine conservation over the last few years,” says OBBC Chairman Johnny Dorland. “Now, our association with the Gulf Coast Triple Crown should increase our visibility in the fishing community and allow us to have an even greater impact in the future.” For more information visit Orangebeachbillfishclassic.com.
C E N T R A L
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PCCA COSTA RICA • GOLFITO 4 1 0 2 April 24 - 27, 2014 ** ! s e i r e S
PRESIDENTIAL PAPAGAYO CUP June 5 -8, 2014 *
All Presidential Challenge tournaments benefit billfish conservation through the IGFA, The Billfish Foundation & the Adopt-A-Billfish Satellite Tagging Program. Enjoy superb light-tackle billfishing in addition to outstanding camaraderie in some of the world’s finest destinations. * Participating tournament in the 2014 Billfish Tournament Series of Central America. * Participating tournament in the Offshore World Championship.
For more information please contact Joan Vernon at: THE PRESIDENTIAL CHALLENGE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION, INC. 205 E. Enid Drive, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 / Tel: 305-361-9258 E-mail: joan@preschallenge.com / www.PresChallenge.com
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 23
JOIN OR RENEW YOUR SUPPORT Membership Levels and Benefits Sailfish $50 • Unlimited free release certificates • Official membership card & decal • Full-color issues of Billfish magazine • FREE TBF membership T-shirt
White Marlin - $125 All of the above, plus: • TBF membership visor
Join or renew at the Chairman’s Club level and join a core group of leading members.
Chairman’s Club - $1,000 All of the above, plus: • Insider reports from the Chairman • Special invitations to exclusive TBF events • Chairman’s Club Flag for your boat or home • Chairman’s Club hat • Exclusive Bonus Gift: Living Legends of Big Game Fishing, great stories of 12 big game captains
Legacy - $10,000 and above • Lifetime Chairman’s Club Level Membership
Striped Marlin - $250
club memberships & Conservation Partnerships
All of the above, plus: • Beautiful signed and numbered print by underwater photographer Tony Ludovico
Fishing Clubs are a prime source to spread TBF’s conservation message! Make YOUR Fishing Club a TBF Member at one of these levels: $250 $500 $1000
Blue Marlin - $500 All of the above, plus: • Set of 5 billfish tags • Three complimentary gift memberships • Complimentary tickets to Fort Lauderdale & Miami International Boat Shows
TBF Conservation partners are a great way to support billfish conservation and promote your business. Corporate partnerships are available at these levels: $1,000 $1,500 $2,500 $5,000
To learn more, visit Billfish.org
To learn more about details and benefits for TBF’s Club Memberships, or Conservation Partnerships contact Deborah at: Deborah_Cummings@billfish.org or 954-938-0150 ext 106.
Membership Application I want to support billfish conservation as a TBF member. I have enclosed my membership payment in the following amount: $50
$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______________________________________________ Members-Only T-Shirt: S
M
L
XL
2XL
3XL
Type of Contribution: New Renewal Gift Please provide the name and address of gift giver and recipient separately if you are giving a gift membership. Membership donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Please fill out and return with your contribution in the envelope provided to:
The Billfish Foundation
PO Box 628259 • Orlando, FL 32862-9941 800-438-8247 ext. 106 • www.billfish.org
sHOP tbf Visit www.BILLFISH.org to place your order today!
TBF Pelagic Camo Visor
Great looking visor from Pelagic Gear with adjustable velcro back featuring Pelagic Fish Camo™ print. Available in blue or grey print, one size fits all.
TBF Pelagic Tag Flag Visor
Made of ultra-lightweight Micro Tech “Quick-Dry” material to keep you cool, with an adjustable velcro back. Comes in navy, one size fits all.
TBF Pelagic Cap
Flex-fit ensures a great fit comes in black embroidered with TBF logo on front, Pelagic on the back. Onesize fits all. Also available with mesh back, regular or flat bill for either.
TBF International Team Tag Flag Long-Sleeved T Made of 100% cotton with the conservation message “Tag Release Recapture”. Comes in sizes M-XX.
TBF-Pelagic 4 Tek Marlin Board Short
Features 4 way stretch, quick dry fabric, ultra lightweight design, antimicrobial properties and convenient side and back zipper pockets. Available in even sizes 30-36
One Love One Ocean T-Shirt
Support TBF by sporting this tee by Pelagic. Made of 100% cotton, comes in brown with tag flag detail on one sleeve. Available in size M-XX.
All sales from TBF merchandise go directly towards keeping billfish in the water for future generations of anglers to enjoy. So you can look good AND show your commitment to conservation all year long! For questions concerning your order, please call 800-438-8247, x106 or email Deborah_Cummings@Billfish.org
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Most fishermen rely on Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and chlorophyll imagery taken by satellites for tripplanning purposes. This imagery helps captains locate areas more likely to hold fish even before leaving the dock, rather than burning fuel in search of good water. But for many recreational fishermen, understanding how to use satellite imagery to identify the best fishing areas remains a bit of a mystery. No advanced degree is required to use SST imagery —it’s actually pretty straightforward. Quite a few fishermen simply head to an area where they earlier caught fish or where they heard fish were biting the day or weekend before. There is nothing wrong with this approach, particularly if conditions remained stable or clouds prevented decent satellite imagery from becoming available; but conditions often change. By using satellite imagery, an angler might find another equally productive place to fish away from the rest of the fleet. A little practice with the technology increases one’s chances of getting a bite. The following important elements help you identify areas favorable for holding billfish when using satellite imagery:
26 | The Billfish Foundation
• Water temperature • Water clarity • Location of structure • Altimetry (sea surface height) • Current direction • Movement or rotation of bodies of water • Thermocline depth • Salinity • Wind strength and direction • Tides and moon phase
Photos courtesy of Fishtrack.com While water temperatures in the mid- to upper 70s look favorable in these images off Cabo San Lucas, viewing a chlorophyll image taken on the same day shows a large area of off-colored water inshore. Fishermen will have to travel approximately 35 miles southeast of Cabo before hitting warm, blue water. Notice how the temperature and water clarity breaks correspond with each other.
While all of the above elements factor into billfish movements, this article simplifies, perhaps over simplifies, the absolute three basic elements needed to find more fish - water temperature, water clarity and structure. Water Temperature Billfish prefer warm waters in temperate and tropical zones. In temperate zones like the northeast United States, California and New Zealand, water temperature fluctuates seasonally quite a bit. When planning early or late season trips, knowing the lowest temperature at which billfish remain in the area can make the difference in catching or not catching billfish. Striped marlin and spearfish, for example, begin to show up in many areas when water temperature reaches the low 70s F, whereas blue marlin begin to arrive in numbers when the water temperature hits the mid 70s.
To start your trip off right, keep in mind the preferred water temperature ranges that hold billfish in your area as you search with your SST technology. Water Clarity After identifying the best water temperature zones, view chlorophyll images to identify areas where water clarity looks best. The green stuff in plant leaves and phytoplankton (tiny plant-like microorganisms), chlorophyll, provides the foundation for the ocean’s food chain. Bait preferred by large pelagic fish feed on phytoplankton or on the small organisms that feed on phytoplankton. Identifying concentrations of phytoplankton blooms provide you with a good idea of where baitfish should concentrate, especially if you are in the same place for several days, which allows the food chain time to develop.
This beautiful chlorophyll shot of the Bay of Islands, North Island, New Zealand, taken from Fishtrack.com shows clear blue water pushing close to shore over the 500 fathom line with 72 degree water — a perfect recipe for a hot striped marlin bite and a chance at a big blue marlin.
While billfish prefer concentrations of clean, blue water, bait prefer feeding in green, off-colored waters that teem with smaller organisms. The boundary areas between blue and green water, often called color breaks, typically stack up bait and hold above-average numbers of fish. Temperature breaks and chlorophyll breaks often correspond. After identifying with satellite imagery the general area of a chlorophyll break, note temperature differences on either side of the break, for example, .2 degrees or 1.5 degrees. Once you arrive at the identified area, pay attention to your water temperature gauge to find the temperature break. You may also see other marine life in this area including birds, porpoise, flying fish and bait, all good signs. While you can still catch billfish in green, off-colored water, better are your chances for marlin and sailfish in or around the edges where green and blue water interact, or in the blue water itself. Structure Structure, the third critical element to consider when targeting billfish, increases your chances of success. Structure may be a hump on the bottom, a ledge, a canyon, a seamount, an artificial reef, an oil rig or even a buoy. With large underwater structure, nutrient-rich deep ocean water
Although partially obscured by clouds, this shot of Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia shows very clean 78-degree water, perfect for blue and black marlin fishing in the canyons 15 miles offshore.
and microorganisms get pushed to the ocean’s surface by currents creating conditions where bait concentrate and hold. Specific structures, like oil rigs and offshore buoys, provide both protection and feeding opportunities for bait species and their predators, including marlin. In summary, using SST technology to
locate areas with the best combination of water temperature, water clarity and structure provides you the best chance at a successful fishing trip.
Fishtrack.com provides cloud-free SST charts and chlorophyll imagery from the world best fishing spots. Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 27
Education
Young TBF Heroes Young TBF Members continue to accomplish amazing acts in promoting TBF and billfish conservation. The following five not only helped to promote and educate others on TBF’s mission of billfish conservation but also raised funds for TBF under their parent’s guidance. Miles, Kolby & Evan Buddenhagen The Buddenhagen children, Miles and Kolby both 5 years old, and older brother Evan, 9 years old, tabled a conservation booth at their school’s Sustainability Fair. To share info about TBF, during the fair they spoke about the importance of catch and release fishing and making donations to TBF for billfish conservation. Their love of fishing and fish conservation came from their father Erich, who remembers talking to them about fishing when they were “basically just walking.” Once Erich completed his Billfish Royal Slam in 2009, he made a commitment to his sons and billfish conservation to help insure great fishing opportunities remain available during their lifetimes. Obviously, Erich did a great job. We thank the Buddenhagens for promoting TBF in Massachusetts and for their generous donation. Nixen Work At 8 years of age, TBF Member Nixen Work is an ocean and billfish steward. He loves fishing on his family’s boat Shark Bait, a strictly
catch and release boat, where he helps tag and release billfish. Recently, his parents asked TBF whether Nixen could hold a fundraiser to help the organization. Nixen’s desire to help TBF became his school project to raise funds for a charity. For each donation, he gives the donor a one-of-akind t-shirt he designed. According to Nixen, it is “a nice way of me giving you thanks for helping the billfish in our oceans.” Moreover, his mother and grandfather said they would each match the amount he raises. Thank you Nixen and family for your support. Jessica Jessup You might remember Jessica Jessup, the high school student who held an art fundraiser for The Billfish Foundation last year. In college now, she continues helping The Billfish Foundation with her art. Jessica donates proceeds to TBF’s Education Program from sale of t-shirts she designs with ocean and fish images. She believes seeing more marine images on apparel helps raise awareness with the public, especially young students interested in ocean and billfish conservation. Her passion for the arts came from the encouragement of her family, friends, and school, and when well-known artist Carey Chen visited her school last year. You can find Jessica’s line of apparel and art at www.jessicajessupapparel.com. TBF appreciates Jessica’s continued support.
If you, your class, or your family is interested in helping TBF, please contact Peter_chaibongsai@billfish. org. We take pride in recognizing such efforts by our young members.
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Zachary Miller A Philanthropist
Early this year TBF received a check for $303 and a letter from 13-year old Zachary Miller, in which he explained he designated one-third of his allowance, birthday and holiday gift money to come to TBF for billfish conservation….wow! Raising their children to learn the importance of saving and donating to worthy causes, the Miller family from Pennsylvania, requires their children to donate one-third of their allowance, birthday, and holiday gift money to a charity of their choice. Every year, the children’s allowance increases by one additional dollar commensurate with their age. Each week during 2013, Zachary put away $4.33 and by year’s end, his savings amounted to a little more than $225. Taking the same percentage from other financial gifts he received throughout the year, Zachary’s total charitable
giving fund amounted to $303, which he donated to The Billfish Foundation. Though Zachary never caught a billfish, he understood that large fish are important in the oceans’ ecosystems and their habitat must be protected. He also thinks billfish look fun to catch and release, which he practices with all his fishing. His mother, Dawn, said he “spent time researching about organizations that make a difference with wildlife and preserving our oceans…two of Zach’s passions in life. We wanted you to know in an array of many deserving choices, he chose The Billfish Foundation
as the one he hoped to make a difference with.” Zach’s inspiring letter below explains why he decided to make his meaningful donation to TBF. What an example Zachary and his family make; instilling philanthropic values at a young age prepares children to appreciate the work of charitable organizations and the value of saving and donating. We applaud Mr. and Mrs. Miller and hope their example might inspire you.
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Advocacy
A Step in the Right Direction for Australian Anglers Recreational fishing organizations in Australia applauded the newly elected Liberal Party’s promise to suspend the management plan for the nation’s network of marine reserves. This great news pleased nearly five million Australian anglers, as the Party vowed to take significant measures to restructure the management plan. In doing so, the government promises meaningful consultation with stakeholders and better representation for anglers. In October 2013, the approved management plan for commonwealth marine reserves prohibited anglers from fishing a significant portion of the seas surrounding the island nation. Some Coral Sea reserves prohibit anglers from fishing in great marlin waters, which could potentially result in huge losses for Australia’s recreational fishing industry, which generates an estimated AUD $10 billion annually. Fortunately, the Coalition and Liberal Party led by Prime Minister Tony Abbott are taking steps in the right direction. Abbott pledged to establish a science panel to thoroughly review the science behind the reserves design and regional advisory panels. The panels will ensure adequate consultation through a balanced approach with all stakeholders. The Party also vowed to establish a Recreational Fishing Council and allocate $1 million to support the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation. These actions in Australia represent a growing trend to recognize the importance of anglers in the management of marine environments. We hope the Australian
Photo courtesy of Erich Buddenhagen
Photo courtesy of Vitaly Volkov political leaders make good on their promises to restore the anglers’ confidence. In the words of the Coalition, give the recreational sector “the respect and recognition it deserves as contributors to the environment, healthy lifestyles and to the nation’s economy.”
2013 ICCAT Negotiations Recap The 2013 International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) concluded in late November, following intense negotiations over western and eastern Atlantic bluefin tuna, North and South Atlantic swordfish, and North and South Atlantic albacore. The current landing levels for both western and eastern Atlantic bluefin tuna remain the same and are extended for another year pending the 2014 stock assessments. The swordfish management measures were extended for another three years, which protects the U.S. quota share for that time. U.S. Recreational Fisheries Commissioner and TBF President Ellen Peel said, “Fortunately the U.S. did not lose any swordfish quota.” She encourages all anglers to report every
swordfish they land to help protect the U.S. interest. The landings limit for North and South Atlantic albacore will remain at the current levels. Compliance with ICCAT measures again received a lot of attention with nations agreeing that the records of the 47 member and five non-member nations should be reviewed and action taken if found out of compliance. The U.S. remains the leader in keeping compliance an important issue, which now receives a significant amount of attention during the negotiations each year. Failure to reach agreement on a number of shark measures generated a big disappointment, especially the one proposed by the U.S. requiring that all sharks be landed with fins naturally attached.
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Science
5th International Billfish Symposium Taipei, Taiwan Nov. 4-8, 2013 In early November, Dr. Chi-Lu Sun, Chairman from the Institute of Oceanography (IONTU), National Taiwan University, and Co-Chair Dr. Gerard DiNardo, of the International Scientific Committee for Tuna and Tuna-like Species in the North Pacific (ISC) representing their organizations hosted the 5th International Billfish Symposium. More than seventy top billfish scientists from across the world came together in Taiwan to present and discuss recent advances in billfish research. This international collaboration of billfish scientists provided a great opportunity for researchers to learn from other’s research findings, which may generate subsequent collaborations in search for new solutions to global billfish conservation issues. TBF supported the international scientific symposium.
32 | The Billfish Foundation
Topics presented at the symposium included population structure, biological studies, tagging experiments, ecosystem modeling, stock assessments, and fisheries management. Many presenting scientists have collaborated with TBF on previous research studies. Dr. Eric Prince of the University of Miami presented research results on Expansion of Oxygen Minimum Zones and Impacts on Tropical Pelagic Predators. Prince was also recognized for his tremendous contributions made over decades to billfish conservation, including his long collaboration with TBF. Dr. C. Phillip Goodyear, TBF scientist, contributed his research on Understanding Maximum Size in the Catch: An Example Using Blue Marlin. Dr. John Graves from the Virginia Marine Institute at William and Mary presented research results on Billfish
Population Structure and Reconciling Inferences from Genetics and Tagging Studies. Dr. Sofia Ortega-Garcia from CICIMAR – Instituto Politecnico Nacional in Mexico presented her research results on Three Complementary Methods to Elucidate Diets of Striped Marlin in Baja California Sur, Mexico. Dr. Molly Lutcavage and her colleague Tim “Chi” Lam from the University of Massachusetts shared research results on the Habitat Utilization for Striped Marlin in the Pacific and Tracking Sailfish from a Yucatan “Hotspot”. After peer review, the papers presented will be published in a special issue of the Journal of Fisheries Research. Knowledge of billfish species has evolved tremendously since 1973 when the first Billfish Symposium met and research focused mostly on basic biology, including migrations, reproduction, and growth. At the 5th International Billfish Symposium, the array of research topics was quite diverse. Even so, much remains to be learned about billfish. The next international billfish symposium is scheduled for 2015.
THE 2014 GULF COAST TRIPLE CROWN KICK OFF TOURNAMENT AT THE WHARF
MAY 14-18, 2014
OrangeBeachBillfishClassic.com
(Gulf Rigs continued from page 15) each species comes with a specific set of fishing regulations sometimes both federal and state, so research the regulations before leaving the dock.
Tip 3: Be Safe, Be Considerate Because the northern Gulf is known for its summer weather with intense heat and humidity which builds into massive thunderstorms with high winds, blinding rain, dangerous lightning and even waterspouts, you must keep an eye on the horizon. Forecasting services provide up-to-the-minute outlooks for boaters, which when coupled with radar, provides tools for anglers to reduce harm from dangerous weather. A rig’s lee side may provide some shelter, but it’s always best to avoid bad weather entirely when possible. The multi-billion dollar petrochemical industry supplies rigs and wells with crew, supplies, parts and equipment by crew boats, the hundred-footers often found tooling around from rig to rig. Give crew boats the right of way, even if it means pulling up the lines and moving to another rig. Be courteous and steer clear. The amazing diversity of fish species in the upper Gulf provides anglers with an array of fish to target. Producing some of the most prolific fishing in the world. Put the upper Gulf on your angler’s “must fish” bucket list.
Left:Charles Caplinger at the Twelve Mile Rigs aboard Rebellious. Photo by Charlie Caplinger.
orcacoolers.com
888-640-6722 34 | The Billfish Foundation
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tBF’s Conservation Ambassador’s message
TBF Circle Hook Tips
The U.S. government regulations mandating the use of circle hooks when fishing for Atlantic billfish in tournaments and using natural bait, live or dead, forced a change in angler techniques. The first challenge usually faced by seasoned anglers is to stop trying to set the circle hook as one would set a J-hook. Rigging techniques for live and dead bait vary, but you can greatly improve your hook-up and release rates, if you follow several techniques.
Leader to Hook Connection
There are three common ways for attaching a leader to a circle hook. The easiest requires crimping a loop through the eye of the hook, which leaves the hook loose and able to swing on the end of the leader. The second method requires the use of a loop knot, which eliminates the crimp and enables the hook to have the same swinging effect. These two techniques are most commonly used when top kitefishing crews fish with live bait. The third most commonly used technique requires snelling the hook to the leader. This preferred choice for rigging trolling baits and bait-and-switch rigs is becoming more popular with live bait kite-fishing crews. Be sure to wrap the snell knot at least seven or eight times so the snell is positioned on the hook and the leader runs from under the eye of the hook.
Capt. Anthony DiGiulian instructs anglers on the proper use of circle hooks. Photo by Christine Shepard
Drag Setting and Rod Position
Setting the reel’s strike drag a little lighter than usual aids successful hook ups with circle hooks. For example, if sailfishing with 20-pound test line, decrease your strike drag from six or seven pounds down to five pounds for improved hook up rates; this small adjustment can make a big difference. Do not use a striking motion when setting circle hooks, but rather just reel in steadily until the maximum load is placed on the rod and line is coming off the reel. Striking or jerking while using circle hooks often results in the loss of
hook and bait from the fish’s mouth. Once the fish is on and settled down, you may increase the drag as necessary. Rod position also contributes a big part to of a successful hook-up ratio. Try to see the bite and determine right away what direction the fish is swimming with the bait. If the fish turns to your right and away from you, point your rod tip low and to your left before engaging the drag. If the fish goes to your left, hold your rod low and to your right. It is never a good idea to have the rod pointed directly at the fish when hooking up. By holding your rod low and to either side, you will create an angle that will allow the hook to find its mark.
From left to right, three of the most common rigs: crimped, snelled and knotted with a loop knot.
Anthony “Tony” DiGiulian is the TBF Conservation Ambassador and also the owner and president of Saltwater Professional Consulting. He has spent over twenty five years in the sport fishing industry and can be reached at 954-489-7485.
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 37
On the Docks Gulf Cup Fourth of July Blue Marlin Shootout July 4, 2013 www.thegulfcup.com For most Americans, the Fourth of July holiday weekend is a summertime rite of passage: family cookouts, fireworks and good friends. For the team fishing on the 58-foot Sculley, Mojo, it’s also one for the record books, as they were named the winners of the first annual Gulf Cup Fourth of July Blue Marlin Shootout. The Mojo, owned by Will Lett and captained by Brian Phillips, hooked up late in the day while fishing live bait well out in the Gulf of Mexico. Upon arrival to their home port of Port Aransas, Texas it was clear they had landed a very respectable blue marlin. As the weighmaster at Fisherman’s Wharf carefully raised the fish from the cockpit, the digital readout settled on 501 pounds even. As the July 4th fireworks exploded in the night sky, the team celebrated a hard-fought victory. The following day, TBF friend and the well-known Tournament Director Robert “Fly” Navarro arrived from the event’s temporary base in New Orleans to present the Mojo team a check for $14,400. Perhaps even more important, he also presented the Fisherman’s Wharf weigh station a custom perpetual trophy from marine artist David Wirth, officially giving Port Aransas and the state of Texas bragging rights as being home to the largest blue marlin caught on the Fourth of July in the Gulf of Mexico for one year. The tournament also donated a percentage of their proceeds to The Billfish Foundation to continue our worldwide conservation efforts. For more information on The Gulf Cup Fourth of July Blue Marlin Shootout, visit www.thegulfcup.com.
San Juan International Billfish Tournament September 15-21, 2013 www.sanjuaninternational.com Nearly 200 anglers representing eight countries came to compete in this all-release tournament, celebrating 60 years as one of the most prestigious billfish tournaments in the world. The “White Hot” 60th Anniversary party was a spectacular and TBF President with Dr. and exciting celebration. Most Mrs. George Crawford at the importantly, large numbers of “White Hot” Celebration blue marlin also showed up to make the sixtieth year one to remember, with 46 boats releasing 145 blue marlin over the four days of fishing. After four days of fishing it was Bolita that stole the show with ten billfish releases to win Top Boat with 2,775 points. Bolita’s
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owner Jaime Fullana of Puerto Rico won both Top Local and Top Overall Angler honors with four releases. Anglers fishing aboard the Bolita included Antonio Fullana and Miguel Munoz as well as marine artist Carey Chen, international angler Julio Mansylla and TBF staff member Michael Kelly. For Fullana, it was his first win in 48 years of fishing the SJIBT and there couldn’t have been a
more deserving angler. Second place was the Christina with seven releases followed by Anamarina in third place with six releases. In the angler categories, Carlos Luis Rodriguez finished in second place followed by Juan Quintero in third. Top International Angler was awarded to Elias Ignacio Cruz who, together with teammates Jimmy Adum, Jose Bejuco Jimenez del Valle and Carlos Luis Rodriguez, won Top International Team for Ecuador. TBF would like to thank everyone involved in the SJIBT and is grateful to be a part of such a distinguished event. Special thanks go to TBF team members Julio Mansylla, Dr. George Crawford and Mike Kelly for representing TBF. TBF would also like to thank Jaime Fullana as well as Club Nautico board members Dr. Ricky Jaen and Miguel Donato for their continued support. The Club made a donation to TBF for support of billfish campaigns in the Caribbean Sea.
St. Lucia International Billfish Tournament October 1-5, 2013 www.billfishstlucia.com Twenty boats and 96 anglers came to the island of St. Lucia for some great billfishing and a great time. Teams from St. Lucia, Trinidad, Tobago, Barbados, Martinique, the U.S. and Antigua took to the waters surrounding this beautiful Caribbean island for three days of fishing. The tournament wasn’t about just fishing though, as teams helped raise money for local charities, and TBF staff met with
Tournaments & Events Supporting TBF anglers from several Caribbean nations to help raise awareness about important issues in the region. Also in attendance were TBF supporters Tony Ludovico and LMR Tackle. Day One of fishing was red hot for Team Vesper of Trinidad and Tobago who took a huge lead and never looked back. With eight blue marlin and two sailfish, Vesper took home the win for the second year in a row. Helping Vesper to secure the win was top angler Clint Quong Singh who released four blue marlin and two sails. Coming in second place on time was Crazy Horse Again with four blue marlin releases followed by Pair A Dice with three blue marlin and one sailfish. After three days of fishing crews raised 56 billfish and released 21 blue marlin and nine sailfish. The tournament also set an island record this year with a 47.5-pound mahi-mahi caught by lady angler Sandrine Maugee aboard the Yetabord. TBF would like to thank long time TBF supporter Anthony DiGiulian for all his help as well as the St. Lucia Game Fishing Association. Special thanks also goes to Annie Hamu for her hard work in organizing this event and her dedication to sportfishing in the Caribbean.
Presidential Challenge Aruba Caribbean Cup October 17– 20, 2013 www.preschallenge.com The Fourth Annual Presidential Challenge Aruba Caribbean Cup was filled with hot action for many of the 17 boats fishing the tournament. Every team got a handful of shots at billfish and on many accounts, as typically happens in this part of the Caribbean, multiple blue marlin coming into the spread at one time. With that factored in, standings can change quickly and every fish that comes into the spread is important. In all, 30 billfish were caught and released during the threeday tournament: 21 blue marlin, five white marlin, and eight sailfish released. Being a circle-hook only tournament, a unique opportunity is provided for TBF to work with anglers on the importance of circle hooks. As other tournaments in the area begin to follow suit and shift towards the use of circle hooks, many of the captains and anglers have begun to switch to the use of circle hooks year-round.
Bisbee’s Black and Blue Marlin Tournament October 27, 2013 www.bisbees.com When it comes to the Bisbee’s Black and Blue, big fish and big money are expected and this year did not disappoint. The fleet of more than one hundred boats came to Cabo San Lucas to compete for $2.9 million in prize money and when all was said and done it was the ladies that stole the show. The Success II with angler Linda Williams and her crew cleaned up at the awards ceremony by taking home Top Team and the overall tournament jackpot by landing a 774-pound blue marlin, the third largest marlin ever weighed in tournament history. Their win earned the team $368,675. Although she came in second place, TBF member Martha MacNab was still happy after taking home the largest payout for the tournament, a grand total of $1,185,862. Betting across the board can certainly pay off and this year the Sea Angel team proved just that. Though they came in fifth place overall, Austin Angel and his family team still won big with a 313-pound blue marlin that earned them a handsome $966,680.
The crew aboard the Naira with Capt. Ruben “Bincho” Mansur, Jr. and anglers Bancho Mansur, Yilson Ikiate and Jose Guanipa released five blue marlin and two sailfish to gain top team accolades for the tournament. An impressive feat for the second-place crew aboard the Toroa, a 70-foot Nordhaven trawler, was their release of a Grand Slam on the final day of the tournament. Wrapping up the winner’s podium was Team Priority aboard the Driftwood. During the impressive award ceremony, Capt. Dan Kipnis served as the voice for TBF during a live auction to benefit its billfish conservation work. TBF looks forward to continue working with captains and anglers in Aruba on the use of circle hooks and to increase tagging efforts in the region to learn more about the movements of billfish from this Caribbean area.
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 39
The Billfish Foundation would like to thank the Bisbee family for their tremendous support. More than $200,000 was generated for several charities this year including TBF. Not only is it a worldclass tournament, but a world-class family as well.
Presidential Challenge of Guatemala November 21-24, 2013 www.preschallenge.com The anticipation of non-stop sailfish action and the potential to get a Grand Slam on any given day draws anglers from all over the world to Guatemala for the Presidential Challenge of Guatemala billfish tournament. Hosted at the beautiful Casa Vieja Lodge, a 2014 Tag and Release Program Sponsor for The Billfish Foundation, the hospitality, accommodations, and meals when added to the fishing action are hard to beat. Serving also as the final leg of the Billfish Tournament Series of Central America, bragging rights were on the line for many of the captains and crews. Finding a pocket of fish quickly on the first two days of fishing and jumping out to an early lead was Team Priority with anglers Hans Kaspersetz, Jim McCord, Ed Arnold and Julio Viega aboard the Intensity with Capt. Mike Sheeder. However, with the potential for thirty to forty bites a day, any team can make a large jump in the standings. On the third day, Team Priority was overcome by the crew aboard the Tranquilo with Ken and Amanda Cofer, Bill Pino and Dennis Barbour claiming top honors for the tournament and edging out Team Priority by just a single release. Also coming on strong during the end of the tournament and finishing in third place was Team USA aboard the Capt. Hook. In the angler division, TBF member Bill Easum took home top honors, followed by Julio Viega and Bill Pino.
The winners of the new Billfish Tournament Series of Central America Perpetual Trophy: Ken and Amanda Cofer aboard the Tranquilo.
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Wrapping up the PCCA Tournament Series, Tranquilo was the Top Team in the PCCA Conservation Series and was named the Costa Grand Champion Team. Team Priority and Team USA were named second place and third place, respectively in the tournament series. Tranquilo also won the new Billfish Tournament Series of Central America Perpetual Trophy. Setting the bar high for conservation, the Presidential Challenge recorded their 10,000th billfish release in tournament history during the 2013 PCCA Guatemala. Continuing the tournament’s conservation efforts, PCCA also presented a check for $5,000 to The Billfish Foundation during the award ceremony.
Orange beach sportfishing club’s Kenny Vines Memorial Tournament Sept. 27-28, 2013 www.orangebeachsportfishingclub.com The commitment to raise funds for The Billfish Foundation was clear at the annual OBSC Kenny Vines Memorial Tournament. Despite the nasty weather boats, boats, fishing teams, volunteers and sponsors showed up at the Pleasure Island Tiki Bar to kick off the event. Tournament Director Mark Hardage kept cool and all the necessary dockside activities moved forward, all the time hoping for a break in the weather but unfortunately that was not to happen. Boats left after the captain’s meeting and while some turned back soon after clearing the pass, a few hardy souls ventured forth to fish. No billfish were caught during this year’s event but the winning tuna was caught by Jay Corte IV, a junior angler aboard the Cotton Patch. The winning dolphin was also caught by a junior angler, John Coleman Bryars, Jr. on the Crippler. The tournament donated funds from the event’s proceeds to TBF.
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41 | The Billfish Foundation
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 41
The Billfish Foundation’s 2013 Conservation Record Holders TBF is proud to announce the winners of its Annual Tag & Release Awards. These prestigious awards recognize the Captains, Mates and Anglers (including Youth & Ladies) who have tagged and released the most of each billfish species in each of the world’s three major oceans during the 2012-2013 competition year.
Overall Release Awards Top Overall Release Angler – Tiffany Sisolak – Kitty Hawk, NC USA Top Overall Release Lady Angler – Tiffany Sisolak – Kitty Hawk, NC USA Top Overall Release Youth Angler – Gregory Benn - Great Falls, VA USA Top Overall Release Captain – Brad Philipps – Guatemala City, Guatemala
Top Release Anglers – Atlantic
Blue Marlin – Gray Ingram – Jupiter, FL USA Sailfish – Gray Ingram – Jupiter, FL USA White Marlin – Gregory Benn – Great Falls, VA USA
Top Release Anglers – Indian
Black Marlin – Henry Riggs-Miller – Victoria, Seychelles Sailfish – Henry Riggs-Miller – Victoria, Seychelles
Top Release Anglers – Pacific
Black Marlin – Barry Alty – Gold Coast, Australia Blue Marlin – Christian Hampl – San Jose, Costa Rica Sailfish – Tiffany Sisolak – Kitty Hawk, NC USA Striped Marlin – Chris Bays – Kailua Kona, HI USA Swordfish – John Gregory – Kerikeri, New Zealand
Top Release Captains – Atlantic
Blue Marlin – Ronnie Fields – Lake Park, FL USA Sailfish – Scott Leon – Pembroke Pines, FL USA White Marlin – Fin Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA
Top Release Captains – Indian
Black Marlin – Brad Philipps – Guatamala City, Guatemala Sailfish – Rolly Pierre – Denis Island, Seychelles
Top Release Captains – Pacific
Black Marlin – Brett Alty – Coombarah, Australia Blue Marlin – Edgar Montero – Golfito, Costa Rica Sailfish – Brad Philipps – Guatemala City, Guatemala Spearfish – Chris Bays – Kailua Kona, HI USA Striped Marlin – Chris Bays – Kailua Kona, HI USA Swordfish – John Gregory – Keri Keri, New Zealand
Overall tagging Winners
Top Overall Tagging Angler – Christian Hampl – San Jose, Costa Rica Top Overall Lady Tagging Angler – Martha MacNab – Balboa Island, CA USA Top Overall Youth Tagging Angler – Nick Brackmann – Huntington Beach, CA USA Top Overall Tagging Captain – Edgar Montero – Golfito, Costa Rica
Top Tagging Anglers – Atlantic
Blue Marlin – Mike Brauser – Lighthouse Point, FL USA Sailfish – Jose Guanipa – Caraballeda, Venezuela Spearfish – Gray Ingram – Jupiter, FL USA Swordfish – Richard Gudoian – Key Largo, FL USA White Marlin – Laurent Sahyoun – Casablanca, Morocco
Top Tagging Anglers – Indian
Black Marlin – Scott MacGowan – Baynton, Australia Blue Marlin * – Daniel James – Wadeye, Australia Blue Marlin * – Oliver Porter – Bull Creek, Australia Blue Marlin * – Joseph Sutherland – Broome, Australia Sailfish – Henry Riggs-Miller – Victoria, Seychelles
Top Tagging Anglers – Pacific
Blue Marlin – Christian Hampl – San Jose, Costa Rica Sailfish – Jack Duvall – Kemah, TX USA Spearfish – Sandra Hiler – South Bend, IN USA Striped Marlin – Martha MacNab – Balboa Island, CA USA
Top Tagging Captains – Pacific
Black Marlin – Tim Richardson – Bangalow, Australia Blue Marlin – Edgar Montero – Golfito, Costa Rica Sailfish – Skeet Warren – Flamingo, Costa Rica Spearfish – Gene Vander Hoek – Kailua-Kona, HI USA Striped Marlin – Bernabe Ruiz – Cabo San Lucas, MX
YOUTH WINNERS Top Tagging
Ages 8 & Under | Charles Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA Ages 11-12 Runner-Up
| Jack Way – Houston, TX USA | Serenity Schneider – Boca Raton, FL USA
Ages 13-15
| Nick Brackmann – Huntington Beach, CA USA | Lillian Way – Houston, TX USA
Runner-Up Ages 16-17
| Matthew Hancock – San Antonio, TX USA
Top rELEASE
Ages 8 And Under | Brown Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA Ages 11-12 | Bo Ingram – Greensboro, NC USA Ages 11-12 | Katie Davis – Malibu, CA USA Ages 13-15 | Gregory Benn – Great Falls, VA USA Runners-Up | Nick Brackmann – Huntington Beach, CA USA | Wesley Davis – Malibu, CA USA Ages 16-17 | Ridge Murphy – Homestead, FL USA *Represents a tie.
Ceremony Sponsored By:
Top Tagging Captains – Atlantic
Blue Marlin – Ronnie Fields – Lake Park, FL USA Sailfish – Fin Gaddy – Manteo, NC USA Spearfish – Ronnie Fields – Lake Park, FL USA Swordfish – Sean O’Connor – Key Largo, FL USA White Marlin – Christian Banazeth – Auch, France
Top Tagging Captains – Indian
Black Marlin – Bernard Vale – Coral Bay, Australia Blue Marlin – Eddy Lawler – Exmouth, Australia Sailfish – Ross Newton – Broome, Australia Striped Marlin – Eddy Lawler – Exmouth, Australia
Tag & Release Program Sponsors:
Anglers We Will Miss Abner W. Butterworth, Jr. of Prince George, Virginia passed away unexpectedly on November 8, 2013 at the age of 60. Known to friends as “Winn”, Butterworth’s professional life began as a mattress salesman who ended up starting his own company, Custom Comfort by Winn. Winn enjoyed politics, and had a great love for the outdoors. He and his wife of 21 years, Cindy, enjoyed great times fishing offshore and traversing the woods on hunting trips. In addition to his wife Cindy, Winn is survived by his mother, Audrey Grace Butterworth, sister Laurie Passopulo, and daughter Carman Faison. His family has designated The Billfish Foundation as one of the charities for donations in memory of Winn.
Marc Howard Henderson of Spartanburg, South Carolina, passed away on October 24, 2013, at the age of 51. Marc attended Spartanburg High School and graduated from Clemson University. He was the owner and president of Nexsen, Textiles, Inc. in Spartanburg and was active in the First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg. Marc was an avid angler and a member of The Billfish Foundation. Marc’s surviving family includes father and mother, J. Howard and Boog Smith Henderson, and three sons: Powell, Jacob and Dennis. The family designated The Billfish Foundation as a charity for those wishing to make donations in his memory.
Frank Jones, Sr. of Linwood, New Jersey, passed away October 13, 2013 at the age of 83. He grew up playing football and later coached for many local organizations in the Linwood area. He was an accomplished billfish angler, fishing all over the world and collecting many awards along the way. Frank served as Vice Commodore of the Atlantic City Marina Yacht Club and was a member of the Atlantic City Tuna Club. He is
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survived by his wife Barbara Devine Jones, son, Frank Jones, Jr. and daughter, Mary Catherine. Frank’s family requests donations be made to The Billfish Foundation for those wishing to honor his memory.
Monty Padilla The recreational fishing world has lost a great champion with the passing of Monserrate “Monty” Padilla Nicolin on January 9, 2014 at the age of 85 in his hometown and birthplace of Mexico City. Growing up, Monty’s love for fishing and the ocean was instilled by his father, Mario Padilla Campiz. The family often spent time in Acapulco where Mario spent many hours teaching Monty about the sea and its inhabitants. He introduced his son to Dr. Roy Dean, a dentist who was revered as an expert on saltwater species and conservation, including the value of catch and release fishing. Dr. Dean introduced the first tagging program for sailfish in 1944. Monty’s love for fishing led him to great fishing grounds in Mexico and throughout the world including Acapulco, Baja California, Nova Scotia, Panama, Costa Rica and many areas of the U.S., just to name a few. He continued his conservation work as well, serving as the first President of the Mexican Sportfishing Federation and personal advisor to the Secretary of Fishing in Mexico. Padilla was one of the first to recognize the socio-economic value of sportfishing and focused on promoting recreational fishing, recognizing the value of billfishing opportunities and the importance of sound fishery management. He was a great friend and ally of The Billfish Foundation by the example he set as a champion of catch and release fishing, tagging and the use of nonoffset circle hooks. TBF honored Padilla with its Rybovich Lifetime Achievement award for he was a man of honor, completely dedicated to the highest ideals of sportfishing, and an outstanding
representative of an international sport. Monty Padilla will be truly missed by all who knew him.
Garland Fergerson Palmer, Jr., known as “Sonny” to his many friends, passed away at his North Carolina home on September 5, 2012 at the age of 66 following a battle with cancer. Sonny attended the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, served in the Navy during the Vietnam War and later became a building contractor in Wilmington. As an avid sportsman and a licensed captain, Sonny most enjoyed spending time on the water. In April of this past year, fellow anglers and captains participating in the Masonboro Inlet Sportfishing Tournament honored his memory by donating to The Billfish Foundation. They recall Sonny as a great guy who never met a stranger and was always ready with a quick joke. He
is survived by his wife, Margaret Fensel Palmer, son, Harrison Whitner Palmer, sister, Betty Ann Swindell, and brother, William Frederick Palmer.
Scott Wesley Wade passed away on December 15, 2013 at the young age of 24. Scott was born in Newport News, Virginia, raised in Chesapeake and graduated in 2007 with honors from Hickory High School. He grew up fishing and hunting and loved spending time in the great outdoors. He joined The Billfish Foundation as a Jr. Angler in 1997. Scott is survived by his parents, Elizabeth and Stuart Wade Jr., brother S. Carlton Wade
III, and grandparents, Margaret Thomason Wade and Stuart C. Wade, Sr. The family requested donations be sent to The Billfish Foundation to honor Scott’s memory.
Actor Paul Walker passed away at age 40 on November 30, 2013 as the result of a car accident while attending a charity event for his foundation, Reach Out Worldwide. The event benefitted those affected by a recent storm in the Philippines.
Paul was born September 12, 1973, in Glendale, California. His mother Cheryl worked as model which helped Paul land jobs in TV commercials at a young age. Paul’s rise to fame started with a role in the 1998 hit movie “Pleasantville,” followed by “Varsity Blues.” He became an international star in the action-packed “Fast and Furious” series beginning in 2001. Paul grew up surfing and loving the ocean and was pursuing a degree in marine biology before deciding on a fulltime acting career. Walker served for a short time on the TBF’s Board of Directors beginning in 1996. He is survived by parents Paul Walker III and Cheryl Walker, daughter Meadow, and four siblings: Caleb, Cody, Ashie and Amie.
Making a Difference for future billfish If you want to honor a deceased love one or friend, or mark a special occasion, consider making a donation to TBF. It’s a wonderful legacy to make in their name. Contact Robert Jones at 954-938-0150 X113.
Join TBF at www.Billfish.org | 45
2014 Please support tournaments and events that support TBF. January
MAY
27-31 | Budget Marine Spice Island Tournament Location: Grenada www.Sibtgrenada.com
14-18 | Orange Beach Billfish Classic Location: The Wharf Entertainment Complex, Orange Beach, AL www.orangebeachbillfishclassic.com
FEBRUARY 13 | TBF Tag & Release Ceremony Location: Jungle Miami Time: 6:30 P.M. www.billfish.org 13-17 | Miami Boat Show Location: Miami Beach, FL www.miamiboatshow.com
MARCH 1-2 | Golden Hook Challenge Location: St. Croix, US Virgin Islands www.fishstx.com
APRIL 3-5 | Yamaha Contender Miami Billfish Tournament Location: Miami Beach, FL www.miamibillfish.com 23-27 | Key West Sailfish Championship Location: Key West, FL www.keywestsailfishchampionship.com
24-27 | Presidential Challenge of Costa Rica – Golfito Location: Golfito, Costa Rica www.preschallenge.com
23-26 | Mobile Big Game Fishing Club Memorial Day Tournament Location: Orange Beach, AL www.mbgfc.org 27- June 1 | Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic Cypress Cove Marina & Lodge Location: Venice, LA www.comefishla.com/ccbc 29- June 1 | Ladies Fish Off Location: Pompano Beach, FL www.ladiesfishoff.com
JUNE 2-8 | Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic Location: Biloxi, MS www.mgcbc.com 5-8 | Presidential Challenge of Central america Papagayo Cup Location: Marina Papagayo, Costa Rica www.preschallenge.com 12-15 | New Orleans Invitational Billfish Tournament Location: Cypress Cove Marina Port Eads, LA www.nobgfc.com 14-15 | MBGFC Ladies Tournament Location: Orange Beach, AL www.mbgfc.org
15-21 | Hatteras Marlin Club Tournament Location: Hatteras, NC www.hatterasmarlinclub.com 18-22 | Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic Location: Sandestin, FL www.fishecbc.com 26-29 | Pensacola International Billfish Tournament Location: Pensacola, FL www.pbgfc.com 27 – 28 | New Orleans Ladies Invitational (dates are tentative)
JUly 3-7 | Caicos Classic Location: Blue Haven Marina, Turks and Caicos www.caicosclassic.tc 4 | The Gulf Cup Location: South Padre Island, TX to Key West, FL www.thegulfcup.com 4-5 | MBGFC Junior Angler Tournament Location: Orange Beach, AL www.mbgfc.org 18-21 | Japan International Billfish Tournament Location: Shimoda, Japan www.jgfa.or.jp/e 22-27 | HBGFC Lone Star Shootout Location: Port O’Connor, TX www.hbgfc.com
passionate about fishing since 1983.