Providing trained and insured observers to authenticate the catch & release of billfish & game fish during international big game fishing tournaments. Are you experienced in offshore fishing and ready for your next great adventure?
Founded in 2009 by a core group of experienced billfish anglers, International Game Fish Tournament Observers, Inc. (IGFTO) is the only worldwide membership-only billfish observer organization. We are made up of about 250 experienced anglers, captains, and mates who average more than 30 years of experience on the water.
Since our inception, our Observers have participated in 180+ billfish tournaments in 11 countries (including Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and more) and have witnessed the release of more than 67,500 billfish.
Observers can count on hard work and long days, but the experience of working alongside some of the finest crews in the world while observing top-ranked anglers reel in magnificent sailfish and 300-lb. marlin is truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re an experienced angler excited about observing at tournaments worldwide, or whether you want to be involved as a supporter, sponsor, or through a one-time donation - there are many ways you can get behind IGFTO’s mission.
Are you experienced in offshore fishing, able to withstand the rigors of sea, and passionate about the fair catch and release at high-profile tournaments? Consider joining IGFTO through an Observer Membership.
Become an ObserverFor as little as $50 or $75 a year, you or your family can help support IGFTO’s mission.
Supporting MembershipYour fishing club can proudly support IGFTO’s mission for $50 to $1,000 a year.
Fishing Club MembershipBecome a Corporate Supporter through cash or product donations, starting at $500.
Corporate MembershipPartner with IGFTO and help support our mission while gaining exposure at tournaments, on the website, and more.
Become a Partner
Support our mission through a one-time (or recurring) tax deductible donation in any amount.
DonatePlease mail your check to:
IGFTO
P.O. Box 30191
Pensacola, FL 32503-9998
As our Observers travel to different tournaments, some like to share their experiences with the rest of us. All members are encouraged to submit their travel notes.
The longest continually running salt water tournament, the San Juan International Billfish Tournament (“IBT”), concluded after three fishing days on August 27, 2023.
IGFTO provided 24 Observers to the tournament including Bob Smith, Adriana Vale, Alan Buchfuhrer, Art McDonald, Barbara Evans, Bill Langan, Bob Gordon, Cindy...
What a fantastic time observing in the 8th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational. From start-to-finish, it was an amazing experience.
The crews and hospitality at both Pacific Fins and Buena Vista (Jody’s) were very welcoming and top-notch.
The welcoming ceremony was special as IGFTO donated monies for more research the second year in a row. It...
Aqua Inspiration Three 2024
Golfito and Quepos, Costa Rica Golfito
A little over six weeks ago, Aqua Inspiration kicked off in Golfito, C.R., on Monday, May 27, 2024. Our second year in Golfito, the event was sponsored by the IGFTO, Junior Achievement-Costa Rica, Marina Bahia Golfito, and Marina Pez Vela Youth Career Days.
The event started with Junior Achievement-Costa...
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Interested in becoming an IGFTO sponsor or partner? Contact us.
