Eleven-year-old angler Ianna Gilbert needs a helping hand.
She set two world angling records in the Small Fry division in 2004 and is slated to receive the International Game Fish Association’s World Record Achievement Award at the organization’s Dania Beach, Florida headquarters April 9.
But there’s a catch.
Ianna’s father, Tony Gilbert, broke his ankle in a heavy-equipment accident 18 months ago and has been out of work since then. The single father of two daughters cannot afford to take Ianna to Florida to receive her award.
Members of the Southern California sportfishing community are appealing for financial contributions from individuals and businesses to help send Ianna to Florida to receive her award in person. The fund was inaugurated with contributions from IGFA Representatives Jack Innis, Mike Rivken, Catherine Miller; Log FishRap Editor Zack Thomas; Fisherman’s Landing; Point Loma Sportfishing; Ed and Erika Zieralski, and H&M Landing. But contributions are still needed.
A special account is being administered by the San Diego Sportfishing Council.
She has earned this trip, and it is well within the ability of the sport fishing community to get her there.
Please send a check to the San Diego Sportfishing Council, 2171 India St. #E
San Diego, CA 92101. Mark envelope and check memorandum line, “Ianna Gilbert Trip.” Checks will be accepted through April 9th, so please make a donation of any amount. To be fair to all anglers receiving awards, the IGFA itself cannot participate.
Ianna will be at the Fred Hall Fishing Tackle, Boat and Travel Show at the Del Mar Fairgrounds — IGFA booth — from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, March 26 and 27 to say hello to local anglers.
Including retired and pending categories, Ianna Giolbert has seven world records altogether.
I've kicked in $50 bucks to start things off.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/sports...12fishgal.html 
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