The International Light Tackle Tournament Association came into being in March 1946 during the Annual Sailfish Rodeo in Acapulco, Mexico. Dr. Roy B. Dean was the founder of I.L.T.T.A. and a staunch supporter of the Club until his death in 1990 at the age of 95.
Dr. Dean’s vision of an International All Release Light Tackle Tournament was met with some trepidation in view of the fact that tournaments in that day and time were all “on the dock” or “kill” tournaments. Doc’s idea was to have competition between teams of three individuals representing clubs all fishing under IGFA rules. These three-man teams would fish separately; changing boats and partners each day of the tournament. It obviously was a superb idea since it is still going strong. I.L.T.T.A.’s International Light Tackle Tournament rules have been utilized by many major tournaments and they have been refined and proven for over 50 years.
