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Georec Challenge - Rules
     
 
Starting a Challenge
You become the Challenge Host (CH) when you start and host a new challenge. This means you are responsible for verifying any photographs before finalizing the results. Once you finalize, the results cannot be changed.

You should also notify all participants if you make any adjustments to fish recorded, explaining what was done, and why you did it. As challenge host, you have to remain impartial and objective in making decisions, especially if you are participating too. Be fair and your friends will want to play again.

You are responsible for resolving any disputes or queries. Georec.com will be not be part of any challenge disputes or mediation.
 
Disqualifications
Only the CH can disqualify a fish. A fish can be disqualified for any reason the CH deems suitable, but common reasons include, obscured or missing FLURE Code, missing ruler, fish does not match species claimed. Disqualification should be a last resort, and every effort should be made with the CH and participant to try and rectify the problem first. The CH may ask for more information or additional photos. The CH's decision is final!
 
Species
You can only record and report species that are on the list of eligible species provided by the CH. If you cannot identify a fish you have caught, record and photograph it anyway, then verify later. It is best to be familiar with the species on the list before you begin fishing. Scientific names are always provided and are the ultimate identifying name. Common and local names can vary considerably, so make sure of your identification.
 
Photographing
smallmouthAll photos of fish must include a ruler or tape measure. The ruler should be placed as close as possible to the fish and the graduations should be clearly visible. Minimum digital photo size may be stipulated by the CH, but otherwise should be large enough to see the code and ruler. Ideally, place the fish on a flat surface with the ruler below or the above. The zero of the ruler does not have to line up with the front of the fish. The ruler does not have to be as long as the fish.

The photo on the right is an acceptable image. The ruler and Challenge Code is clearly visible and no part of the fish is cropped out. Also, the ruler is on the same plane as the fish, making it easy to validate the reported length of 13 inches. Enough of the fish should be visible to clearly identify the species, especially if it could easily be confused with a similar species.

Always use this rule - if you can't see it in the photo, then neither can the CH and your fish may be disqualified.
 
Fishing
The CH may specify any additonal rules, eg. "fly fishing only", but must realize that these kind of rules can be difficult to enforce. This may only be possible with a small, close group of friends. All fish should be returned live to the water immediately after photographing. If you are aware of any participants violating the fishing rules, you should contact the CH.
 
Laws
Make sure you follow all fishing regulations that pertain to the country/state/province or area you are fishing in. Do not include fish species that are out-of-season for the duration of your challenge.
 
Recording
When you catch a fish, measure it (rounding up) to the nearest 1/2 inch, or 1 cm. A fish that is 12.25" would be 12.5" not 12". Write down the species name and it's length together with the time. Your digital camera should record the time on the photo so you can match your record with the image later on. You only need to record the largest fish caught for each species. Each time a fish is recorded, it will overwrite the existing record for that species. Only the last recorded fish of each species is retained. Thus, if one of your fish are disqualified, there will be no others of that species to fall back on.
 
Reporting
Once you return back from fishing, you have until midnight of the last challenge day to record your catch. If travel time is required, you or the CH needs to factor that in. The deadline date and time cannot be changed once the challenge starts. After logging in, go to the Georec Challenge page and select the species and length and your photo to upload. Repeat the process for each of the species you have caught. You can also report the same fish to any other Georec Challenges they may be eligible for.
 
IMPORTANT
The Georec Challenge is about having fun, and is based on honesty and trust. If you violate that trust, you may not be invited to play again. So be a good sport about it.
 
Have Fun !
 
 
     
     
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In wilderness I sense the miracle of life, and behind it our scientific accomplishments fade to trivia.