There are some 60 species of freshwater fish in the British Isles and Ireland and several hundred marine and coastal species. This incredible diversity of species is matched by the diversity of methods devised to catch them. Most of us, however, tend to stick with familiar species and tried and tested methods. Old habits die hard, so why not try something different this year? What more incentive do you need than seeing your Branch lift the trophy for winning the inaugural IFM inter-branch fishing competition. A prize is also available for the top-scoring individual and also for the best photograph submitted during the competition.

The competition will run from 16th June 2009 (first day of the coarse season) to 14th March 2010 (the last day of the coarse fishing season).

It could not be simpler. One point per species per person regardless of fishing effort. Once an individual has registered a species, no more points can be earned by that individual for the duration of the league. A dozen mackerel caught by one person earns 1 point for the branch and individual. One mackerel and one garfish earns 2 points. A dozen people catching a mackerel each earns 12 points for the branch and 1 point for each individual.

Each Branch has nominated a local co-ordinator who will be responsible for collating catch records for their Branch ( for a standard form, click here ). A list of Branch co-ordinators is published below. Records are then sent to the national co-ordinator (Rob Evans, Welsh Branch) who will be responsible for maintaining a national database of catches.

Regular updates will be published via the IFM website so you can keep track of how your branch and top individuals are performing. Photographs and interesting stories will also be published via the website. An update will also be published in FISH.

At the end of the competition the Branch (and individual) catching the most species lifts the trophy.

What are you waiting for? Get out there and get fishing and let us know how you get on. Tight Lines to all!