In 2014, Elemental Methods collaborated with the Snook & Gamefish Foundation to design a management system for “Catch and Release” fishing tournaments. Developed with input from recreational anglers, fishing guides, and marine biologists from the Florida Wildlife Research Institute, this innovative system aimed to streamline tournament operations while contributing valuable data for marine research.
By 2015, Elemental Methods acquired sole ownership of the system and launched it as a standalone product under the subsidiary iAngler Tournament. The platform combines tournament management with data collection, making it a vital tool for anglers and marine conservationists alike.
How the iAngler Tournament System Works
The iAngler Tournament system is a fully integrated solution for managing fishing tournaments while gathering critical angling data. Its mobile application allows participants to log catch data directly from the water, ensuring an efficient and real-time process.
- On-the-Water Data Logging: Anglers use the mobile app to photograph their catch and log essential details while still on the water. With an active internet connection, these records are transmitted instantly to the system’s web portal for review. If a connection is unavailable, the data is saved and uploaded once connectivity is restored.
- Real-Time Notifications: Tournament Directors are immediately alerted to new submissions. They can review catch photos and details, then accept or reject the entries. Accepted records are scored and displayed on the Live Leaderboard within seconds.
- Feedback for Corrections: If a catch record is rejected, the app and email notify the angler with feedback from the Tournament Director, allowing for corrections and resubmission when possible.
Enhanced Audience Engagement and Efficient Management
The iAngler Tournament platform allows Tournament Directors to quickly and accurately finalize results, simplifying the process for organizers and participants. The live leaderboard functionality creates a dynamic experience, enabling online spectators to monitor tournament progress in real time.
Since its introduction, the system has gained international recognition and has been used to manage fishing tournaments in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Scotland, and Chile.
Advancing Marine Research Through Data Collection
Beyond tournament operations, the system’s data-logging capabilities provide marine biologists with valuable information about fish species, locations, and catch conditions. This dual-purpose functionality positions iAngler Tournament as a game-changer in both competitive fishing and marine conservation.
With its combination of innovative technology and user-centric design, iAngler Tournament continues to enhance the fishing tournament experience while fostering sustainable fishing practices worldwide.
