Longitudinal analysis of fishing behavior among Texas anglers (1990-2006) | US Forest Service Research and Development

Abstract

This study examined fishing participation and experience preferences of Texas anglers from a longitudinal perspective. Data were obtained from five independent statewide surveys of licensed Texas anglers conducted by Texas A and M University in 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, and 2006. We observed the following changes between 1990 and 2006: 1) Fishing participation, especially saltwater fishing, increased; 2) male and minority participation increased; 3) the average age of anglers rose; and 4) the number of anglers from rural areas decreased. There were also changes in fishing motivations. For example, getting away from the demands of other people and being with friends declined in importance. The number of anglers motivated by social factors and a desire to be in a natural environment increased rapidly over the 16 years; this group of anglers reported a higher participation rate for saltwater fishing, were more likely to own a boat, and felt more satisfied with their fishing experience.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the 2009 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium

Citation

Lu, Jiaying; Schuett, Michael A.; Wolber, Nathan; Ditton, Robert. 2010. Longitudinal analysis of fishing behavior among Texas anglers (1990-2006). In: Watts, Clifton E., Jr.; Fisher, Cherie LeBlanc, eds. Proceedings of the 2009 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-66. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 128-134.