New IGFA electric reel rules

The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) recently announced that it is adopting new language for the organization’s rules pertaining to the use of power-driven reels, most commonly referred to as “electric reels.”

These reels have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially within the recreational swordfish fishery.

To preface the new language outlined in detail below, the IGFA has stressed that it does not, and will not, accept the use of electric reels that aid the angler in fighting a fish. This new language simply clarifies the use of electric reels regarding deploying and retrieving baits and/or lures and can be found under Section E. Rule 2. Reel.

The previous rule stated ‘Power-driven reels of any kind are prohibited. This includes motor, hydraulic, or electrically driven reels, and any device that gives the angler an unfair advantage in fighting the fish’.

The new Rule 2, effective immediately, says power- driven reels are acceptable when used strictly for the purpose of retrieving a deployed bait or lure at depth all the way to the boat. They may only be used to retrieve a bait or lure completely to the boat and are not permitted for adjusting the position of a bait or lure in the water column. Electric reels that do not have removable electronic components that allow them to be completely manually driven are prohibited.