There are over 30 great reasons to be a member of the IGFA and one of them is the World Record Game Fishes book which is published each January.

The editorial and advertising staffs at the IGFA are working on the 2009 edition, a reference book that has been described by recreational fishermen and outdoors/fishing writers alike as "the most comprehensive piece of fishing information available anywhere."

"It continues its legacy as one of the most reliable and complete source books of worldwide fishing records and fishing-related reference materials," said the IGFA's Denise Hartman. "It's a mainstay of recreational fishing."

She said the 2009 edition to be released in mid-January is expected to be over 400 pages. The popular annual is the official guide to saltwater and freshwater catches ??? for nearly 400 species around the world -- in all-tackle, line class, fly, junior angler and U.S. state records.

"It's sent to IGFA members in over 120 countries. Besides the huge compilation of saltwater and freshwater world records, it also lists angling rules, detailed fish descriptions, a multitude of special programs, informative and entertaining articles by leading outdoor editors, plus much more."

She said the complete IGFA member benefits also include a subscription to the bi-monthly magazine the International Angler, decals, a tape measure, a membership card with yearlong entry to the 60,000 sq. ft. IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum, access to world records on the IGFA web site, and special promotions and discount at the IGFA store.

To learn more about the IGFA and its many programs dedicated to conservation and education, visit the IGFA website at www.igfa.org or call 800-442-4665.