Perceptions of Recreational and Commercial Striped Bass Anglers in Southern New England

The recreational and commercial striped bass (Morone saxatilis) fisheries each play significant roles in the economy and welfare of coastal New England. While recent striped bass population declines have led managers to consider closing the commercial fishery, the potential impact on fishing communities remains unclear. Our research unveils the viewpoints of different fishery participants through an online survey of anglers from Massachusetts and Connecticut. Survey results reveal the perceived relative economic importance of the recreational and commercial fishery and highlight management modifications that anglers perceive as beneficial. These findings also suggest that anglers would be generally receptive to a variety of changes as a sizeable portion of recreational and commercial anglers responded in favor of reducing their catch levels. Participants were found to have considerable knowledge of striped bass ecology and offer interesting insight into recreational and commercial poaching, including the harvest of sub-legal size fish and overharvest in both sectors. They also drew attention to the presence of possible winter refuges and spawning grounds for striped bass in southern New England. Our results suggest that much can be gained from evaluating the perspectives of anglers and incorporating them into the management process.