Recent natural disasters demonstrate the devastating impacts that catastrophic weather, fire and seismic events can have on the international recreational angling community.

In just the last few weeks, Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria dealt major blows to major recreational fishing centers in the southern United States and across the Caribbean region, wildfires in the western U.S. disrupted freshwater fisheries from Oregon to Montana, and earthquakes in Mexico sent tsunamis down the Pacific Coast of Central America.

Anywhere in the world, on any day, at any time, a thriving recreational fishery can become a wasteland in a matter of hours in a major natural disaster. And the people who often create those recreational fisheries — the captains, guides, crews and outfitters who depend on recreational fishing for their livelihoods— often find themselves in the center of the storm.

To address the impacts of recent disasters and be better prepared to respond to future catastrophes, the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has created the Worldwide Anglers Relief Fund (WARF).

The WARF will accept donations from the global recreational angling community and make grants to local angling organizations and associations to speed recovery efforts and get captains, guides, mates and anglers back out on the water. Grant decisions will be made by IGFA leadership in consultation with major WARF supporters and local representatives in impacted areas.

You can support the WARF by making a contribution below. The IGFA is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and donations may be tax deductible depending on your jurisdiction. To donate by phone, contact Eric Combast, IGFA Development Director, at 954-924-4325.