Henry Clement, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, August 2023. Photo by Captain Andrew Derr.
By Henry Clement
Jason Schratwieser is a prominent leader and advocate in the recreational fishing world. He began serving as the conservation director for the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) in 2003 and was integral in shaping the IGFA into a highly respected conservation organization.
President Schratwieser
On January 25, 2020, Schratwieser was unanimously elected president of IGFA by its Board of Trustees, reflecting his dedication and influence within the angling community.
The Rules
In the July 29, 2026 article “Fly Fishing by the Rules” published in Flylords Magazine, Schratwieser, the author, stresses that IGFA rules are not just about chasing world records—they are fundamental to defining the practice and spirit of fly fishing itself. He argues that, like any sport, clear rules provide necessary structure and meaning. Without such guidelines, both competition and the sport’s identity would quickly erode.
President of the IGFA Jason Schratwieser
The main IGFA rules for fly fishing records include:
- Tackle: The fish must be caught with IGFA-legal fly tackle, with the angler performing all aspects of the catch unaided.
- Fly Line & Backing: Any type is allowed, with no limit on breaking strength.
- Leader & Tippet: The leader must follow fly-fishing customs. The class tippet (the weakest section) must be nonmetallic, at least 15-inches long, and no stronger than 20 pounds. Tippet rings are allowed.
- Rod: Must be at least 6-feet in length and conform to accepted fly-fishing standards.
- Reel: Must be specifically designed for fly fishing.
- Fly: Only a recognized artificial fly may be used—treble hooks are strictly prohibited.
To apply for a record:
- A certified weigh-in or acceptable documentation is required.
- Submit tackle samples, photographs, and a completed application.
- IGFA fly-fishing records are divided into tippet-class categories up to 20-pounds, and all catches must meet the minimum requirements for the chosen class.
For the complete rules and regulations, refer to the official IGFA PDF:
Click here…
Schratwieser’s leadership and advocacy have helped ensure that fly fishing remains a respected and well-defined sport, grounded in fair play and tradition.
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