Observer Training Course

Are you already an IGFTO Observer?

Members in good standing are encouraged to sign up for a refresher course at no cost.

Training Course Schedule

Selecting an Observer Training Course date will initiate the new Observer membership application process. If you’re already an Observer, sign up for your refresher course by selecting the “Member Refresher Course” button above.

Status	Date	City	Venue	Additional Details
Open	Date August 24, 2025	City Ocean City, MD Marlin Club	Venue	Additional Details

Before Proceeding:

Please acknowledge that you have read the Observer Requirements & Protocol and believe you are qualified.

Yes, let's go!

Policies & Cancellations

Course Time/Duration

All training course sessions run 9AM - 1:30PM local time.

Payment Policy

Payment of $295 is due within 24 hours of registration/application submission. This payment includes your first year’s membership dues.

If you do not remit payment within 24 hours of submitting your application, your application will be forfeited.

Cancellations

If you cancel your reservation 2+ weeks prior to the course, you will receive a full refund. (Less than 2 weeks incurs a $25 cancellation fee.)

OTC Content and Details

The Observer Training Course covers essential topics such as IGFA (International Game Fish Association) rules and regulations, billfish species identification, and Observer duties and responsibilities. It ensures a baseline level of knowledge and skills needed to ensure fair play and proper fish handling during billfish tournaments.

Observers are only required to take the Observer Training Course one time; however Observers are encouraged to take an occasional refresher course. Members in good standing may take the course at no charge.

Course Frequency

We aim to offer 4 training courses per year and post new course dates as they are scheduled. Course content is the same for each course, with minor variations.

Groups of 10 people or more may request a custom course date and location. Contact us at member.services@igfto.org.

Cost

$295 for new applicants
Refresher courses are offered for free to current members in good standing

What’s Included

Half-day training session (9 a.m. to ~1:30 p.m.)
Annual IGFTO Membership (through end of calendar year)
IGFTO gear:
- Observer Dress Shirt
- Observer Work Shirt
- Observer Log Book
- Face Buff
- Lapel Pin
- Applique Patch
Course Notebook
Web access to billfish identification and IGFA rules downloads

Payment Policy

Payment of $295 is due within 24 hours of application submission to hold your training course reservation and to keep your membership application in good standing.

Payments are processed through PayPal or Venmo. You may pay with a credit card through the PayPal portal without the need for a PayPal account.

If you cancel your reservation 2 weeks or more prior to the course, you will receive a full refund. (Less than 2 weeks incurs a $25 cancellation fee.)