The International Game Fish Association (IGFA), the authority on fishing world records, is proud to announce the release of the 2025 IGFA “World Record Game Fishes” book, the world’s most trusted and comprehensive resource on recreational angling records and international fishing standards. Now in its 82nd year, this annual publication remains the definitive guide for anglers around the globe, blending verified world records with compelling editorial content that highlights the evolution, ethics, and excitement of the sport.
Published annually since 1943, the IGFA “World Record Game Fishes” book has become a cornerstone of the organization’s mission to promote ethical angling, advance conservation and education, and recognize excellence in the sport. The 2025 edition continues this tradition, offering up-to-date listings for hundreds of freshwater and saltwater species across All-Tackle, Line Class, Tippet Class, and Junior World Record categories, as well as valuable information on angler recognition programs, slam and trophy clubs, captains and guides, weigh stations, IGFA Representatives, fishing clubs, and more.
“This publication is more than just a list of records—it’s the embodiment of the IGFA’s mission and a tribute to the global angling community,” said IGFA President Jason Schratwieser. “Every year, the stories and statistics in this book tell us how recreational fishing is changing, where it’s thriving, and what challenges we face. It’s a celebration of what’s possible on the water, and a reminder of what we must protect.”
The 2025 edition bursts to life with “Amazon Ambush” by renowned game fish artist Mark Susinno, a vivid portrayal of peacock bass lurking in the dappled light of their jungle domain. Beyond the cover, readers will find the comprehensive listing of IGFA World Records, Slam & Trophy Clubs, and five captivating feature articles by leading voices in the sportfishing community. These include an inside look at how the IGFA is championing the future of billfish conservation in “Stewards of the Deep” by Dave Ferrell; the power of Indigenous knowledge in shaping ethical angling in “The Pinawaka Legacy” by Matt Harris; the pursuit of outsized northern pike in Canada’s Mackenzie River in “Slaying Dragons” by Charlie Levine; and a reflection on the evolving trends in fly fishing in “Looking Back to See Forward” by Thompson Smith.
The final feature, “Searching for Gold” by Dr. Andy Danylchuk, spotlights the IGFA’s deep dive into a groundbreaking study on golden dorado population genetics, conducted in partnership with anglers, guides, and research institutions across South America. The story highlights how cutting-edge tools and community involvement are reshaping fisheries management and providing data essential to sustaining game fish populations.
Visit IGFA.org for more.
