The Texas saltwater angler population: a longitudinal perspective (1989-2005)

Abstract

This paper focuses on selected human dimensions indicators of the Texas recreational fishery using the Index of Qualitative Variation (IQV) and Spearman Rank-Order Correlation Coefficient. Minority (Hispanic, Spanish, and females) participation and the overall participation rate in saltwater fishing did not keep pace with a dramatic population transformation in Texas over the last 16 years. Recreation behavior indicators also demonstrated a positive trend in that saltwater anglers have more experience and rate themselves as more skilled over time. Self-assessed skill improved steadily over the last decade. This finding suggests there are more high-specialization (higher levels of skill, experience, and commitment) anglers in the Texas saltwater angler population than previously. The extent of angler satisfaction has been high and increased consistently over time. Also, an increasing preference for red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) is important because stocks of this species are currently being enhanced through hatchery production. Finally, this paper demonstrates the need for consistent human-dimensions questions over time and the types of important sociodemographic, recreation behavior, and resource use questions that can be answered using longitudinal data.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the 2006 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium

Citation

Tseng, Yung-Ping (Emilio); Ditton, Robert B. 2007. The Texas saltwater angler population: a longitudinal perspective (1989-2005). In: Burns, R.; Robinson, K., comps. Proceedings of the 2006 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium; 2006 April 9-11; Bolton Landing, NY. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-14. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 234-239.