The Knowledge, Perceptions, and Use of Barotrauma Mitigation Tools By Florida Saltwater Anglers

Fisheries management measures such as seasonal closures, size and bag limits are reliant on the successful release (survival) of fish. Some species, such as deepwater reef fish, are particularly susceptible to mortality from barotrauma, the bloat and internal organ damage caused by pressure change. The mortality associated with these releases is of key concern for fisheries managers; however, there is a conspicuous gap in understanding anglers’ awareness of barotrauma and their knowledge, acceptance and current use of barotrauma mitigation tools. The purpose of this study was to provide some insight into the current understanding of barotrauma by anglers in Florida and to characterize patterns of use and non-use by these anglers. A statewide survey was conducted in 2014 using a list of saltwater license holders in Florida. The online survey generated 737 completed surveys. This presentation will describe the findings of this survey, focusing upon respondents’ fishing patterns, awareness of barotrauma, understanding and knowledge of the physiological effects of barotrauma, the current use of barotrauma mitigation tools, and the reasons for use and non-use of these tools. The findings will be presented across angling depth zones, experience and avidity levels, and region of the state.