The Billfish Foundation is planning for many exciting projects in the Gulf of Mexico, which we would like to get members of the HBGFC involved in. In addition to TBF's very important traditional tag and release program that continues to provide valuable information for billfish movement and growth rates, TBF is working with scientists to coordinate a blue marlin satellite-tagging project in the Gulf of Mexico. Spurred by interest from members of the Mobile Big Game Club, TBF would also like to get members of the Houston Big Game Fishing Club involved in the planning process so that tags can also be deployed in the western Gulf of Mexico in the summer of 2014. If you are interested in getting involved in this project to increase what is known about the movement and behavior of blue marlin in the Gulf, please contact tag@billfish.org.

Get involved in the year long tournament by submitting a verification form for each catch and release! Click here for Club Awards Program information and verification forms.

What do you think the bottom of your boat looks like? You might be able to skip a year if you jump in and check it out yourself, but don't guess. It's never too early to call the boat yard. Most yards are not busy this time of year, so don't wait till May to haul your boat. There is always a setback that will take longer than you planned. Do a good job and don't skimp on anything. If you thought the boat was steering funny last season, haul it out and check your rudders. One of them might be sitting on your best fishing spot.