Ixtapa Sailfish Tournament 2009
The 2009 Tournament is chaired by Rod Van Saun and Ed Lynch
Applications are going out as we speak for the 2009 Ixtapa Sailfish Tournament. I want everyone to deeply consider the following issues when deciding on whether to attend Ixtapa not just this year but in years to come.
To begin please consider this portion of the TAA articles of incorporation. "TAA was created “to foster national and international competition and conservation for saltwater game fish in the Eastern Pacific region”. Membership in TAA is open to all persons who subscribe to good sportsmanship, fair play and angling by the rules"
This statement sums up a number of characteristics I really respect and appreciate about TAA Members. This group is not built on the ego associated with landing the biggest fish or winning prize money. It is founded on values of respect and sportsmanship I was taught by my father. It is founded on an appreciation and love for the ocean and the amazing angling opportunities it provides. And, it is founded on conserving the resources to guarantee those same opportunities for further generations.
We all recognize how the fishing in Ixtapa has been on a down hill slide since our tournament began there in 1990. Also, we all know that in fishing tournaments anglers want to catch fish. Some people may view the smaller catches of recent years as a reason not to continue to attend the Ixtapa Sailfish Tournament. I however see this quite differently.
As conservation minded anglers I feel this situation is a very high calling for us. It would be easy to turn our backs and find another venue to move the tournament to. I would rather see us unite. TAA can make a difference in the future of angling in Ixtapa. If we don't play this role who will? Over the course of my life I have watched many fisheries suffer extremely due to commercial over fishing. Once they are done abusing a resource they move on to another. We don’t want to do the same. TAA needs to be proactive in bettering the future of angling in Ixtapa rather than having enjoyed it while it was good then leave.
I don’t know whether Chairmen in the past have declared a theme for their tournaments, however, I am. The 2009 Theme is "Conservation Minded Angling". You will see changes that reflect this them and our catch and release strategy. We have an opportunity to educate other anglers and even non fishermen. I want people who see our banners and our T-Shirts to know we are dedicated to catch and release. Every day people in the hotel ask me who in the tournament has the biggest fish and other questions of that nature. People need to know what we are about.
It is also important that the Captains, Hotel Staff, Local Officials, and etc. know we are behind them in the efforts to guarantee the future of the fishery. I personally appreciate the people we work with in Ixtapa.
I hope to see you at the 2009 Ixtapa Sailfish Tournament. Thank you ahead for standing with me. A good time will be had by all.
Rod Van Saun
Chairman
2009 Ixtapa Sailfish Tournament