A Pilot Study of Telephone-Diary and Website-Diary Survey Methods for Monitoring Differences in Recreational Fishing Trips Ending at Private and Public Access Sites in the U.S

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is responsible for collecting information on participation, fishing effort, catch and demographics of participants in recreational fishing in the U.S.  Probability surveys are continually conducted across the U.S. to monitor trends and change in recreational fishing characteristics over time.  Catch estimates for recreational fishing have been obtained using the angler intercept survey that is conducted at a random sample of fishing access points.  However, it may not be possible to access sites located on private marinas or private property.   Our objective is to evaluate and compare the characteristics of recreational anglers fishing from both public and private locations. We also investigate the effectiveness of using a diary and follow-up contacts to collect this information.   In order to collect these data, a probability survey is currently underway.  Two frames are used to select a sample of recreational anglers.  One uses a list of recreational anglers that documents the purchase of an angler license. In order to include recreational anglers who are not included in this list, a probability sample of residents will also be selected.  This dual frame using two lists will assure that all anglers, fishing from both private and public locations, are included in the study.  A screening survey will initially be used in the probability sample of residents in order to identify individuals who fish.  From this list, individuals who agree to participate in the study will be sent a diary and species identification guide.  These individuals, as well as the anglers selected from the license list, will be asked to complete a diary documenting fishing characteristics over a year period.  The individuals are randomized so that some are asked to submit data by telephone while others are asked to provide the data by the Internet.  Comparisons are made examining differences found in fishing characteristics for the respondents to each data collection mode.

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