National groups do not offer the same opportunities as local clubs do for learning and sharing information with other members; but they do offer fishermen a lot of benefits. Joining a national organization can help you become a better fisherman and offer you ways to save money. Most publish a magazine for members that is full of helpful information. Most have some kind of program where members can get discounts on everything from fishing tackle to guide services.

Joining the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) will get you a copy of their annual record book of all fresh-and saltwater species. Become a member of BASS and get a magazine as well as free tackle each time you renew your membership. Crappie fishermen can join Crappie, USA, and get a magazine as well as crappie tournament information. The Gar Anglers Sportsman Society offers merchandise and information about gar fishing. PikeMasters offers a publication and tournaments for pike.

Saltwater fishermen would be interested in the IGFA but they also have specific organizations like the Gulf Coast Anglers Association and the Inshore Saltwater Anglers Association that offer magazines and information about those kinds of saltwater fishing. The Coastal Conservation Association has groups in every coastline state as well as the national organization. The Recreational Fishing Alliance fights to protect fresh and saltwater game fish.

These are just a few of the many groups you can join for information and benefits. Check with fishing friends for groups they like and consider those. Check out groups that have goals you can support and those that offer you what you need. Most will be helpful to you and well worth joining. (See Appendix A for more information on tournament groups and fishing organizations.)