IGFA (International Game Fishing Association) Rules Explained
No Limit For Backing Strength
QUESTION:
With the recent changes to the IGFA’s Angling Rules pertaining to backing, top-shot, and where a catch is classified, I was curious if there are any limitations on the size or strength of the backing, if it is used? In the past, when catches were classified under the heaviest of the lines on the reel, the backing was limited to 60kg (130lb). However, with the new rule classifying the catch under the breaking strength of the line immediately following the double line, leader, or hook; am I still limited by the 60kg (130lb) limit for my backing?
ANSWER:
In short, once this new ruling becomes effective on April 1, 2017, the size/strength of the backing will be inconsequential, and will therefore no longer be restricted to 60kg (130lb). In other words, there are no limits to the strength of the backing under the new rule. That said, the highest line class recognized by the IGFA will still be 60kg (130lb), however it will only be the section of line immediately following the double line, leader, or hook that will be tested in order to determine where the catch will be classified. And if that section of line exceeds the 60kg (130lb) limit, the catch will be not be legal by IGFA rules.
IGFA Rule Book: Rules Explained:
No Limit For Backing Strength
Answer supplied by: Jack Vitek
Position: IGFA World Records Coordinator
This question ran in ISSUE 123 of BlueWater magazine: APR / MAY 2017
