INAUGURAL IGFA SOCAL SWORDFISH OPEN A SUCCESS

The event showcases a historic fishery in California

● Returning to the historic waters off southern California, the International Game Fish Association’s inaugural twoday SoCal Swordfish Open attracted teams from throughout the region, thanks in part to three official weigh stations as well as both weight and release divisions, and strict adherence to IGFA angling rules.

The big winner was the team aboard SS Minnow, who weighed in a 298.7-pound swordfish landed by angler Greg Taite. Placing second was the team on Lucas J, who earned 100 points for a release on Day One, following it up with a 175-pound fish weighed on the second day, for a total of 275 points. Pacific Bills placed third with a 193.6-pound swordfish caught by Greg Boyton. IGFA trustee Bob Kurz placed third in the big-fish division with a 191.6-pounder.

“Southern California is the birthplace of big-game fishing, and that tradition continues today,” says IGFA president Jason Schratwieser. “We are very excited to expand our reach and also to engage with the passionate anglers in a fun and competitive tournament, pursuing one of the most iconic gamefish of all time.”