In 2006 the Lizard Island Black Marlin Classic became a Tag & Release only event with the gantry removed from Lizard Island. Bob Lowe explains:
Of the 3834 Black Marlin hooked in the 20 year history of the Black Marlin Classic, only 22 have been presented to the weigh station, which is only .573%. This reflects the Club’s and its member’s dedication to conservation and scientific knowledge of the species by our commitment to tagging and releasing.
In the year 2000, President Bob Lowe introduced a 450kg (993 pound) minimum weight for this event, which reflected the long standing culture of only weighing outstanding fish. If, for example, an 1150 pounder was weighed early in the Tournament, Anglers and Captains would not bring another “sh to the weigh station unless, in their considered opinion, it would beat the previous marlin weighed.
At our 20th Anniversary event from October 14th to 21st 2006, the Lizard Island Black Marlin Classic became tag & release only. Our decision to no longer weigh fish in this Tournament reflects the culture of our Members, as well as one of our major Sponsors, Voyages Lizard Island Lodge.
Without the support and co-operation of Lizard Island Lodge it would be impossible for the Lizard Island Game Fish Club Inc to continue to run this great event.
Bob Lowe
President Lizard Island GFC Inc.
