Bermuda Billfish Blast Line and Leader Updates for 2018

Newly implemented IGFA rules regarding lines and leaders may have an effect on how anglers fish the Bermuda Billfish Blast this year.

Because the Bermuda Billfish Blast and the Blue Marlin World Cup are both fished on the 4th of July, the line restrictions are identical. Use any line, monofilament, dacron or braided line with a manufacturer’s stated breaking strength of 100 pounds or less. Also accepted is any line labeled “IGFA-rated” with a breaking strength of 130 pounds or less. Both tournaments' line and tackle rules follow the IGFA International Angling rules. Fish caught on lines designed to test over the 130-pound (60-kg) are not eligible.

Of particular note, the IGFA now classifies the breaking strength of line differently. The old rule stated that if the fishing line is attached to backing, the catch shall be classified under the heavier of the lines. The newly implemented rule states that the catch shall be classified under the breaking strength of the first 16.5 feet (5 meters) of line directly preceding the double line, leader or hook. This section must be comprised of a single, homogenous piece of line. Below, other important rules from the IGFA:

LINE & BACKING

1. Monofilament, multifilament, and lead core multifilament lines may be used.
2. Wire lines are prohibited.
3. The use of backing is permissible.
4. The catch shall be classified under the breaking strength of the first 16.5 feet (5 meters) of line directly preceding the double line, leader, or hook. This section must be comprised of a single, homogenous piece of line.

DOUBLE LINE The use of a double line is not required. If one is used, it must meet the following specifications:

1. A double line must consist of the actual line used to catch the fish.
2. Double lines are measured from the start of the knot, braid, roll or splice making the double to the farthermost end of the knot, splice, snap, swivel or other device used for securing the trace, leader, lure or hook to the double line.
3. The double line on all classes of tackle over 20 lb (10 kg) shall be limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters). The combined length of the double line and leader shall not exceed 40 feet (12.19 meters).

LEADER The use of a leader is not required. If one is used, it must meet the following specifications:

1. The length of the leader is the overall length including any lure, hook arrangement or other device, and is measured to the bend of the last hook.
2. The leader must be connected to the line with a snap, knot, splice, swivel or other device. Holding devices are prohibited.
3. The leader on all classes of tackle over 20-pound (10-kg) shall be limited to 30 feet (9.14 meters). The combined length of the double line and leader shall be limited to 40 feet (12.19 meters).

REMEMBER: The line restrictions addressed above are for the Bermuda Billfish Blast only. The Bermuda Big Game Classic, Bermuda Billfish Release Cup and Sea Horse Angler's Club Billfish Tournament allow any line that's 130-pound or less, and the line does not have to be IGFA-rated.