The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) is pleased to announce the 2026 recipients of its prestigious Annual Awards. Comprised of six categories, the IGFA Annual Awards recognize exceptional contributions to sportfishing, honoring excellence in light tackle angling, heavy tackle angling, conservation, sportsmanship, freshwater angling, and fly fishing.
This year’s award recipients include legendary IGFA World Record Holder and fly angler Dave Chermanski (Bob Herder Light Tackle Award); renowned blue marlin angler and release pioneer Mike Brauser (Gil Keech Heavy Tackle Award); the International Light Tackle Tournament Association (Chester H. Wolfe Sportsmanship Award); iconic California bass angler Bob Crupi (Johnny Morris Freshwater Angling Award); innovative skiff designer and record-setting fly angler Hal Chittum (Joe Brooks Fly Fishing Award); and conservation leader and tournament director Rick Weber (Barry M. Fitzpatrick Conservation Award) of New Jersey.
The Barry M. Fitzpatrick Conservation Award won by Weber was established in 1993 and honors those who have made significant and outstanding contributions towards fisheries conservation. In handing out the award, IGFA noted Weber’s lasting impact on offshore recreational fishing through his dedication to conservation and leadership within the sport.
A longtime resident of Cape May and Director of the Mid-Atlantic Tournament, Weber has been involved in nearly every aspect of offshore fishing while also serving on key national committees, including the NOAA Highly Migratory Species Advisory Panel and the ICCAT Advisory Committee. Through the Mid-Atlantic Tournament, he has donated significant proceeds to fishing-related nonprofits and organizations in his local community.
Weber has also contributed meaningfully to the IGFA, providing the majority of funding for the 7th International Billfish Symposium held last year, further reinforcing his commitment to the future of the sport. “The IGFA Annual Awards recognize individuals and organizations whose dedication, integrity, and passion have helped shape the future of sport fishing,” said IGFA President Jason Schratwieser. For more information go to IGFA.org.
