Of course, only live releases can be counted in the competition. Beginning with the 2000 competition three changes were made to the Release Certificate Awards Program. One , a minimum of three spearfish releases are required for the spearfish award. Two , a minimum of three swordfish releases are required for the swordfish award. Three , two release categories for youth were established for the most total billfish released by an angler 12 years old and younger, and second, by an angler 13 to 17 years of age.
Age is determined at time of release.
One fish will qualify the youth angler, no minimums are required for any species. Anglers and captains also have full responsibility for the completeness and legibility of each card submitted for both competitions. Consistency in reporting the name of the angler and captain is also important. Submit cards in one name for the year, rather than switching back and forth. Failure to comply may result in cards not being entered or considered in the awards program.