The IGFA rules state that “from the time that a fish strikes or takes a bait or lure, the angler must hook, fight, and land or boat the fish without the aid of any other persons, except as provided in these regulations”. Therefore, the act of someone other than the angler casting the lure would not disqualify the catch. However, if a fish were to strike a bait or lure before it was handed back to the angler, under IGFA rules the person casting (with rod in hand at the time of strike) is the only person that can fight the fish.