Photo Requirements
A clear photo helps FCA confirm the fish’s species and size. It should show the whole fish, the measuring device and where the measurement starts and ends. This allows a fair review and reduces delays or requests for more information.
Total Length (TL) is FCA’s default measurement method when no other measurement convention has been prescribed for the species or jurisdiction.
Curved Fork Length (CFL) is used when the applicable species or jurisdiction standard requires measurement along the curve of the fish’s body.
Fork Length (FL) is used when the applicable species or jurisdiction standard requires measurement to the fork of the tail.
The measurement photograph is an important component of FCA verification.
The photograph should clearly show:
(1) the entire fish where practical;
the applicable starting point;
the zero point of the measuring device;
(2) readable measurement markings;
the tail;
(3) the applicable measurement endpoint; and
(4) enough of the measuring device for FCA to independently verify the recorded length.
For Total Length and Fork Length, the starting point will normally be the forward point of the snout.
For Lower Jaw–Fork Length, the photograph must clearly demonstrate that the measurement begins at the forward tip of the lower jaw, rather than at the bill or upper jaw.
Photographs should be taken as directly above the fish and measuring device as reasonably possible. Severe camera angles can create perspective distortion and may prevent FCA from verifying the measurement.
Avoid:
(1) shadows covering measurement marks;
(2) hands covering the starting or ending point;
(3) excessive glare;
(4) blurred photographs;
(5) missing portions of the measuring device;
(6) rulers positioned diagonally relative to the fish; and
(7) photographs where the zero mark cannot be verified.
Entire fish visible
Measuring device clearly legible
Camera angle should show realistic fish size and tape alignment
Measurement aligned correctly
Submissions lacking verifiable measurement evidence will be rejected.
Recommended Verification Photographs
For the strongest possible submission, FCA recommends taking several photographs.
Photograph 1 — Full Measurement (Required)
Show the fish and the measuring device from the appropriate starting point to the measurement endpoint.
Photograph 2 — Starting Point (Use if needed)
For TL or FL, clearly show the snout and zero point.
For LJFL, clearly show the tip of the lower jaw positioned at the zero point.
Photograph 3 — Tail and Final Measurement (Use if needed)
Clearly show the tail and the final measurement.
For FL and LJFL, the photograph should clearly show where the centre of the tail fork intersects the measurement scale.
Photograph 4 — Angler and Fish (Optional)
Take a separate photograph showing the angler with the catch where practical.
This photograph may be used for the certificate, Trophy Room, Hall of Fame or FCA promotional features where applicable.