A Closer Look at Probability Sampling Designs for Angler Intercepts on the East Coast of the United States

 

The NOAA Fisheries service conducted a pilot study in 2010 to develop and test a new sampling methodology for the access point angler intercept survey.  The study was conducted for access points along the NC coastline.  The study population was defined as all recreational marine fishing trips completed during a specified survey period in four modes of recreational fishing at publicly accessible sites.  The pilot study was designed to address the recommendations of a National Research Council (NRC) report prepared in 2006.   The pilot study addressed the NRC recommendations in two ways. First, it employed strict probability sampling methods to eliminate personal judgment from the selection of sites, times, or modes of fishing.   Second, it developed a weighted estimation process which properly accounted for the sample design.  The complex sample design employed stratification, clustering, multi-stage sampling, and probability proportional to size (PPS) sampling procedures.  The 2012 study report by Breidt et al documents the design and presents recommendations for improvement.  This presentation addresses design improvements and simplifications based largely on the 2012 report.  The main focus is on use of judgment and advance data to improve the study efficiency while maintaining a probability-based design and estimation process.