Greetings from IGFA! We are excited to bring you this update on the 2008 IGFA Inshore World Championship Tournament. Please find attached the list of tournaments approved as qualifying events for the Championship scheduled for June 29 – July 2, 2008 in Islamorada, Florida.  These tournaments represent over 2,500 anglers, 8 countries and 14 states.

Islamorada in the Florida Keys, "fishing capital of the world", will once again be the site of the championship. Thebeautiful Islander Resort with its panoramic view of the Atlantic has been chosen for the fifth year as host resort and headquarters for the championship.    When you mix the bountiful flats of the Keys, the amenities of the Islander, the unmatched facilities of Worldwide Sportsman and the Islamorada  Fish Company coupled with the world’s best light tackle and fly fishermen and guides you truly have a world class event.

There have been questions from several of the qualifying tournaments and anglers that apply to everyone.  The following is an update:

1. The IGFA World Inshore Championship will be a 3-day fishing event.  Any practice days will be at the expense of the angler.  (guide list on request)
2. We will have a fleet of flats boats (backcountry types) and professional guides selected for the tournament.  A drawing will be held Sunday evening at the Anglers and Captains' Reception for the guides for each angler. Anglers will change boats/guides each day in this rotating format.
3. The cost will be $2300. This includes the registration fee, three days of fishing with boat and guide, angler bag, and all social events.  Lunch, continental breakfast, and p.m. refreshments on fishing days will also be included in the registration fee.  Social event passes for family and guests are available   for entire package ($150) or single event ($50).
4. All anglers must be pre-registered with the IGFA by April 15, 2008.  All fees must be paid in full before an angler competes in the IGFA Inshore World Championship.
5. The weather in July is almost perfect, with temperatures between 85 and 95 degrees.  Please don’t forget your polarized sunglasses, hats and sunscreen for the Florida Keys sun!  A light raincoat is always a good idea for passing showers.
6. All Championship Tournament events are casual, including the awards party.
7. Hotel expense and meals, other than those at the social events are the responsibility of the angler. The Islander Resort offers all IGFA Inshore World Championship Tournament guests special room rates from June 23 through July 8, 2008.

Reservations can be made as early as possible for choice room selections. You can make reservations directly through their website: www.islanderfloridakeys.com.  At the top middle left of the home page you will see a Group Reservations icon.  Once you click on that, the next page will ask for an attendee’s pass code.  The pass code is:  igfa608.  If you prefer not to use the online reservation system, please contact The Islander Resort anytime Monday through Friday and ask for Reservations at 1-800-753-6002. Please identify yourself as IGFA World Championship Tournament guests.
    8.  In the past, some anglers have inquired about transportation from Miami Airport to the Islander Resort.  The following is a list of means of transportation and 2007 quotes.  Please re-confirm everything with individual companies as rates may have changed for 2008.

9. Targeted species are Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit, Redfish and Snook in this 100% release format.   A point system will be used with points allocated based on the use of fly, bait, or artificial lures. Complete rules will be included in the next update.   
  

10. Good tackle will be available for the angler however anglers are encouraged to bring their own rods and reels. 

11. For those of you not familiar with the Florida Keys, summer is a beautiful time with warm temperatures in the 80-95° range and light winds.    Anglers are encouraged to wear shirts from the club or tournament you are representing.

We wish to thank the following sponsors for their generous support towards last year’s IGFA Inshore World Championship:

The IGFA staff, trustees, representatives and a host of volunteers are looking forward to hosting you at ICT 2008. Please contact Denise Hartman, Tournament Coordinator at (954) 924-4243 with any questions or comments. Until the next update – Good Fishing!

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