Fisheries Information in the Digital Age: The Angler's Perspective

Today’s anglers are technology savvy and more are using mobile tools like smartphones and tablets to tap into fishing information. Dozens of fishing applications such as knot-tying references, fishing logs, solunar times, and hot spots are available in the app marketplace. Some states also offer fishing information on the Internet or as mobile device applications such as the Minnesota Lake Finder, Texas Fishing Reports, DNR forums, and state licensing systems. Followers of In-Fisherman’s Facebook page were asked what types of fishery agency data or information services they would find valuable, delivered on the Internet or mobile applications. Responses included fish population data, fishing reports, state fish recognition criteria and applications, lake maps, electronic licensing (option to replace paper), water data and ice conditions, regulations, fish consumption advisories, and stocking data. Others identified by the In-Fisherman staff include record lists, bait rules and availability at vendors, tournament permits, fish identification, and invasive species waters and cautions.