Casting Your Legacy: The Power of Bequests

Every angler knows that the most memorable catches often come from careful preparation and patience. The same can be said for planning your legacy. Thoughtful consideration today can create ripples of impact for generations to come. For those passionate about preserving the future of sportfishing, including the IGFA in your will or other estate plans offers a meaningful way to memorialize your commitment to conservation, education, and angler recognition.

Think of a bequest, which is simply a gift made through your will or trust, as casting into the future. It's a lasting way to ensure that your passion for sportfishing continues long after you've made your final cast.

Advantages of Including IGFA in Your Estate Plans

The process of creating a bequest offers several advantages:

Flexibility to give either a specific dollar amount or a percentage of your estate to the IGFA – both approaches are effective ways to support our mission
Freedom to include multiple people and organizations, ensuring support for your loved ones and the causes that matter the most to you
Complete control of your assets throughout your lifetime, with no current impact on your finances or cashflow
Potential tax advantages for your estate and heirs, depending on your individual circumstances
Ability to modify your plans at any time as life circumstances change

Recent changes to U.S. federal tax law may affect how bequests and other estate gifts fit into your overall plan. Be sure to discuss your options with your estate planning attorney or tax advisor.

The IGFA Lerner Society

By including the IGFA in your estate plans, you will be invited to join the distinguished IGFA Lerner Society, named after our visionary founder Michael Lerner, alongside others who have committed to securing the future of our sport. Of course, you may always choose to give anonymously. To learn more about the IGFA Lerner Society, visit our Lerner Society page.

Finding the Right Strategy for You

Like choosing the right spot to cast your line, selecting the right charitable giving strategy depends on your personal circumstances and goals. Every individual's financial situation and philanthropic goals are unique, just as every angler's relationship with the sport is personal. The key is to find a strategy that aligns with your financial objectives while supporting the aspects of IGFA's vision and mission that resonate most with you.

To learn more about tax-smart strategies, visit our webpage, Casting Your Legacy: Strategic Giving to the IGFA.

Ready to Learn More?

Barbara E. Cini, JD, CFRE, Chief Development Officer | [email protected] | 954-498-7153

Eric Combast, Development Director | [email protected] | 954-924-4325

This information is for educational purposes only and, as always, be sure to consult your tax professional for the advice best tailored to your individual circumstances.