9 Tight Lines Bulletin - Spring 2018 continued from pg. 1 Contest, along with the various casting categories like Fly, Spin and Plug. These tackle categories speak to the club’s historic emphasis on the challenge of light tackle angling,” said WPBFC Chairman Pete Schulz. The club’s official Fish Entry Affidavit has also been simplified making it easier than ever to enter your catch. An electronic app of the affidavit is now available and is quickly becoming the favored way to enter fish. Two notable angling rule changes have been implemented. A witness to the catch and weighing of contest entries is encouraged, but is no longer required as long as a photo or video of the fish is taken with the WPBFC certified scale tag included in the photo. “Most anglers are already taking pictures of their fish anyway. This was long over- due and is making it easier for members to enter their catch,” added Schulz. Witnesses are still required for All Time Club Record entries. The other rule change involves the definition of line class. Due to a change adopted by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) only the first 16.5 feet (five meters) of running line (not including double line, leader or hook/lure) will determine the line category. The change allows anglers to use any strength backing behind their ‘top shot’ of line. Basically, it is similar to a class tippet in fly fishing, only longer. Despite some grumbling from Angling Committee members, it was decided that in the final analysis it’s best for the Club to conform with IGFA rules. Complete details on the new contest format (see below) and rule changes can be found on the club’s website under Annual Fishing Contest and Club Angling Rules. Is Your Hand Scale Certified? Hand scales are a convenient way to get accurate weights on fish you intend to enter in club contests. Be sure your scale is certified yearly. Hand scales can be certified at the WPBFC clubhouse or at local tackle shops including Fishing Headquarters in Jupiter, Lott Bros. in North Palm Beach and Tuppen's in Lake Worth.