So I have decided on some rules for the records page(what you see on there is not finished) but before I set it in stone, I’d like to see what you guys think. I may not change anything based on what you say here, then again I might.
Firstly, Only fish caught from the 1st March 2013 onwards are eligible. We probably all have caught fish that would qualify already but having a fresh start would make it more of a challenge and more fun.
Secondly, minimum sizes will be set by me before it starts on each species to qualify for a record place based on better than average size in the seaway, legal size and rarity. This will stop smaller fish qualifying and stop the need for constant updating in the early stages. For example Bigeyes minimum would be set at 50cm, jewies would be set at 75cm, Tailor would be set at 50cm.
Thirdly, Offshore species (tunas, mackerel, cobia)are only eligible if they caught inside the seaway or broadwater. The reason I have decided on this is that the site focuses on the seaway and broadwater for the most part and from what I have seen on other sites the offshore section is usually dominated by a couple of fisherman anyway. Also inshore species such as tailor, kingfish and mulloway are not eligible if they are caught offshore. To be eligible for a seawayfishing record the fish must be hooked in the seaway or in the broadwater. Its okay if you hook a big fish in the deep hole and it drags you offshore before you land it. To have an offshore species record you need to PROVE it, eg video or photos of the fight or fish showing the breakwalls or something recognisable in the background.
Fourthly, you must have a clear photo of of a live fish on a brag mat or tape measure. Where the fish is too long for a brag mat you must have a clear shot of the whole fish focusing on the tail end where your extra measuring device is attached(ruler or tape measure). Dead fish are too easily manipulated for me to allow them as a record chance. Total length only to the tip of the tail, I don’t care what you do with the tail, either it will reach or it won’t.
Fifthly, only full cm measurement will be allowed, a fish that goes 98.5 cm will be listed at 98cm.
Those are the ones I have come up with so far if there are any others you think I need let me know below.
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