SECTION II

ANGLING RULES AND STANDARDS

II-1

GENERAL DIVISION & EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS

A. This division is divided into 2 Kg. (4.4 lb..), 3 Kg. (6.6 lb..), 4 Kg. (8.8 lb..), 6 Kg. (13.2 lb..), 10 Kg. ( 22.2 lb..), 15 Kg. ( 33.3 lb..), 25 Kg. (55 lb.), 40 Kg. (88 lb.), 65 Kg. (143 lb.)

B. EQUIPMENT AND REGULATIONS

1. LINE

All lines must be of nonmetallic material. The strength of the line used in making the catch shall be based on the manufacturer's stated line test. In the event that the manufacturer lists more than one stated line test, i.e. 4 Kg. (8 lb.): IGFA 6 Kg. (12 lb.), then the higher number will control.

2. DOUBLE LINE

The use of a double line is not required. If one is used, it must meet the following specifications:

(a) The double line must be the actual line used to catch the fish.

(b) Double lines are measured from the start of the knot, braid, roll or splice making the double, to the furthest most end of the knot, splice, snap, swivel or other device used to secure the trace, leader, lure or hook to the double line.

(c) In all cases up to and including 10 Kg. (20 lb.) the double line shall be limited to 4.57 meters (15 feet). The combined length of double line and leader shall not exceed 6.1 meters (20 feet).

(d) The double line on all classes of tackle over 10 Kg. (20 lb.) shall be limited to 9.13 meters (30 feet). The combined length of double line and leader shall not exceed 12.19 meters (40 feet).

3. LEADER

The use of a leader is not required. If one is used it must meet the following specifications:

(a) The length of the leader is the overall length including any lure, hook arrangement or any other device. The leader must be connected to the line with a snap, knot, splice, swivel, or other device. There are no regulations regarding the material or strength of the leader.

(b) In all the classes up to and including 10 kg. (20 lb.) the leader shall be limited to 4.57 meters (15 feet). The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 6.1 meters (20 feet).

(c) The leader on all classes of tackle over 10 kg. (20 lb.) shall be limited to 9.13 meters (30 feet). The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 12.19 meters (40 feet).

4. ROD

The rod tip must measure at least 101.6 cm (40 in.). When fully seated in the butt. One piece rods must measure at least 101.6 cm (40 in.). From the forward edge of the reel seat to the rod tip.

5. HOOKS & BAIT

No more than two (2) single hooks may be attached to the leader, trace or lure at any time. These must be attached separately at least a hook length apart. The only exception to this is that the point of one hook may be passed through the eye of the other hook.

No dangling or swing hooks, or cluster of hooks (3 hooks or more fastened together) are permitted in the General Division. If two (2) hooks are used in a single bait both hooks must be imbedded in the bait.

If 2 baits (maximum permitted) are used, one hook only may be used per bait, each on a separate leader, rigged in such a manner that the two hooks cannot come within two inches 5 cm. (in.) of each other. Gang hooks are permitted while trolling when attached to plugs or other artificial lures that are specifically designed for this use. Gang hooks shall be limited to a maximum of three (3) hooks either single double or treble or a combination of any two. The hooks must be permanently and directly attached to the lure and must be free swinging. Exception: Plastic worm rigs and tube lure rigs, wherein the hooks may be embedded in the lure.

6. ARTIFICIAL LURES

When using an artificial lure with a skirt or trailing material, no more than two single hooks may be attached to the line, leader or trace. The hooks need not be attached separately. The eyes of the hooks must be no less than the overall length of the largest hook apart and no more than 30.48 cm (12 in.) apart. The only exception is that the point of one hook may be passed through the eye of the other. The trailing hook may not extend more than a hooks length past the skirt of the lure.

7. SAFETY LINES

A safety line may be attached to the rod provided that it does not in any way assist the angler in fighting the fish.

Return to top

Return to index

www.The rod and Reel Club.com

 

© FLORIDA BILLFISH, INC. 2002-2003