Quarterly billing available (4 payments per year). International shipping not included—rates vary by location. *AFTCO gift cards will be replaced with items of equal value for international members.
IGFA Releases
2026 IGFA World Record Game Fishes Book
83rd edition showcases record-breaking achievement, expanded angler recognition, and cutting-edge conservation science
March 19, 2026
The International Game Fish Association (IGFA), the global authority on game fish conservation, world records, and angling rules, is proud to announce the release of the 2026 IGFA World Record Game Fishes book. First published as the IGFA Yearbook in 1943, this annual volume has evolved into a cornerstone publication, showcasing world-class record listings across freshwater and saltwater species including All-Tackle, Line Class, Tippet Class, All-Tackle Length, and Junior categories while also featuring updated listings for Slam & Trophy Clubs, captains and guides, weigh stations, representatives, and fishing clubs worldwide.
In 2025 alone, the IGFA approved more than 600 world records, with approximately 75 percent of those fish released to fight another day. This remarkable statistic underscores the modern angling community’s commitment to conservation-minded practices and adherence to IGFA’s time-tested rules.
“The IGFA World Record Game Fishes book is more than a chronicle of extraordinary catches—it is the definitive history of what anglers around the world accomplished under the standards that have defined ethical angling for nearly nine decades,” said IGFA President Jason Schratwieser. “Each listing represents preparation, discipline, and respect for game fish. As our records program continues to evolve, we are creating more opportunities than ever for anglers of all ages to be recognized, all while maintaining the integrity that makes an IGFA World Record truly meaningful.”
The 2026 edition also reflects a significant expansion of IGFA’s recognition programs. In April 2025, the IGFA launched new Junior Line Class and Tippet Class World Records for those 16 and under, providing the next generation of anglers the opportunity to pursue records that demand precision, patience, and adherence to IGFA rules. The organization also added barred sand bass and spotted sand bass to the All-Tackle Length (catch-and-release) category and expanded its Trophy Clubs to include California yellowtail, red snapper, king mackerel, California halibut, and Pacific halibut. Tuna anglers will also find new additions, as albacore and Pacific bluefin are now eligible for both the Tuna Grand Slam and Tuna Royal Slam clubs.
Gracing the cover of the 2026 book is “Magdalena Magic”, a dramatic depiction of striped marlin lit up and balling bait in the waters off Mexico’s Baja Peninsula by IGFA Trustee Emeritus, Dr. Guy Harvey. The artwork not only captures the intensity and beauty of a marlin feeding frenzy but also reflects IGFA’s active investment in billfish research. The organization is currently conducting two striped marlin studies, one in Mexico to determine spawning size and another using advanced genetic analysis to better understand population structure across the Pacific. Meanwhile, the IGFA Great Marlin Race® continues into its sixteenth year with more than 700 billfish satellite tagged to date, and the IGFA Roosterfish Research Program is expanding scientific understanding of one of the Eastern Pacific’s most iconic species.
Beyond records and research, the IGFA’s global education efforts continue to grow. Since 2019, IGFA Education programs have introduced more than 250,000 children to fishing, including more than 42,000 young anglers reached last year alone. Through initiatives such as IGFA Passports to Fishing®, youth participants learn fundamental skills including casting, knot tying, responsible fish handling, and ethical angling practices, ensuring that the next generation is prepared to carry the sport forward.
The IGFA World Record Game Fishes book is the signature benefit of IGFA membership. Members at the Annual level and higher receive a printed copy of the book mailed directly to their door each year of their membership, along with access to the monthly International Angler digital publication, official IGFA membership materials, and exclusive partner discounts from the best brands in fishing. Annual Membership is available for $50 per year. Digital Membership is available for $20 per year and includes online access to IGFA publications. Lifetime Membership, which never expires, is available for $1,750 (optional quarterly payments available).
In addition to these core benefits, the IGFA is extending a limited-time campaign offer for 2026. New IGFA Annual Members receive a benefits package that includes an IGFA logo light blue face gaiter and stickers with their official IGFA member packet.
New IGFA Lifetime Members will receive a YETI Cayo 25L backpack (black), a YETI 35oz Rambler (navy), a Turtlebox Ranger (gray), a $100 *AFTCO gift card, 7.5” danco Pro Series IGFA pliers, and an IGFA tuna logo hat, in addition to receiving the annual IGFA World Record Game Fishes book for life. *International members may receive other benefits of equal value due to shipping restrictions.
Shipping outside of the United States is available for either membership level but not included in the fulfillment cost; charges will be calculated based on location.
To learn more or become a member and receive the 2026 IGFA World Record Game Fishes book, click here.
Media Contact: IGFA Marketing Manager, Shelby Stephenson | [email protected] | (954) 414-9952
