TBF’s Annual Tag and Release Award Ceremony, held in February, was again a high-energy event during which top captains, anglers, and mates were honored for their conservation releases and data collection. In Jungle Island’s Treetop Ballroom young guns exchanged stories, some meeting in person for the first time, while others were known from media coverage of their individual billfishing exploits. With open bars, hors d’oeuvres, and great mojo throughout the room, each became silent when Costa presented its teaser video of their recent Striped Marlin satellite tagging expedition in Magdalena Bay. The footage included extraordinary imagery where they deployed 15 pop up satellite tags in 2 days!! Also available to guests were opportunities to win great gear, tackle and swag from Pelagic, Yeti, Nomadix, Fathom Offshore, Roff’s, and others in a raffle.

When the ceremony began, TBF’s Peter Chaibongsai and board member Robert “Fly” Navarro smoothly transitioned into host and emcee making sure each winner was highlighted, awarded, and photographed to capture their moment. Congratulations again to all the winners and thank you to everyone who came out to cheer them on and support our cornerstone program.

Much appreciation and thanks were shared for the Tag & Release Awards Ceremony Sponsors: King Sailfish Mounts, Costa del Mar Sunglasses, Floy Tag, Dekit Marine Supplies, and Casa de Campo Marina. Thanks also were shared for the Tag & Release Program Sponsors: YETI, Garmin, Costa del Mar Sunglasses, King Sailfish Mounts, Casa Vieja Lodge, Boater’s List, and the International Game Fish Tournament Observers. Without the sponsors, the Tag & Release Program and Tag & Release Awards Ceremony would not exist to applaud the conservation heros.

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