Recreational Angler Contributions to Fisheries Management Are Varied and Valuable: Case Studies from South Florida

Abstract

Recreational fisheries are complex social–ecological systems that are influenced by a variety of increasing stressors. In Florida (USA), recreational fishing is a US$9.2 billion industry and a vital aspect of the state's culture. However, many targeted species remain unregulated and understudied, which hinders identifying population declines or important ecological interactions. The complex nature of recreational fishing means traditional data collection and analysis methods for assessing stock status and trends are not always appropriate or feasible. Recently, fisheries scientists have begun to recognize the value and importance of angler knowledge, behavior, and collaboration, and how angler‐derived data can complement existing biological data and provide new insights. The purpose of this study was to present an overview of three methods for involving anglers in research and provide case studies from South Florida that demonstrate the success of these approaches for assessing and managing recreational fisheries.

Rapid approach for assessing an unregulated fishery using a series of data‐limited tools

“…In our study, we solicited the aid of experienced recreational fishing guides to fill in knowledge gaps about the Crevalle Jack fishery and to help inform model priors. Studies have shown that fishing guides are ideal research partners, as they have substantial on‐the‐water experience and a vested interest in fisheries conservation (Kroloff et al 2019; Adkins 2020; Gervasi et al 2022a). To ensure continued trust and collaboration, fishing guides were informed of the results of this study and its potential management applications.…”

“…To ensure continued trust and collaboration, fishing guides were informed of the results of this study and its potential management applications. As demonstrated by Gervasi et al (2022a), it is important to involve anglers throughout the scientific research process and beyond to maintain trusted partnerships. For cases in which there is general distrust of science and management by key stakeholders, efforts to build trust and maintain relationships are vital to conducting LEK research and fisheries co‐management (Thornton and Scheer 2012; Rubert‐Nason et al 2021).…”

Public perception of an important urban estuary: Values, attitudes, and policy support in the Biscayne Bay-Miami Social Ecological System

“…The overwhelming majority visited the Bay at least once per year. The frequency and popularity of certain activities, including beach visits and recreational angling were not surprising—beach tourism and recreational angling are both extremely popular statewide and considered important local industries [ 59 , 60 ]. Fishing for food was the second most common activity amongst participants.…”