I understand where you're coming from Wade but I think the idea (Brian can correct me if I'm wrong) is to take the "luck" factor out of the tournament as much as possible.

Luck: dragging bait around and/or catching some stray fish

Skill: targeting a specific species and using your experience and knowledge to get it to eat something that is not real

Personally I'd allow corbina (as long as they're not snagged or show any signs of being snagged - don't get me started on that pitiful excuse for a hobby!) but this is Brian's baby.

Sharks and rays? No way. Do you really think it would be fair if an 11 lb. Leopard Shark beat a 10 lb. halibut?