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

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.

Automated summary

Recreational fisheries are complex systems influenced by various stressors and play a significant role in Florida's culture and economy. However, the lack of regulation and research on targeted species hinders understanding of population declines and ecological interactions. Traditional data collection methods are not always suitable for assessing stock status and trends in recreational fishing. Recent recognition of the value of angler knowledge and collaboration has led to the integration of angler-derived data for better insights. This study provides an overview of three methods involving anglers in research and showcases their success in assessing and managing recreational fisheries in South Florida.